Overcoming Bias: Tackling Gender Stereotypes in Apprenticeships

Despite the progress made in workplace equality, gender stereotypes remain stubbornly present—especially in trades and apprenticeships. A young woman showing interest in becoming a plumber or electrician is still too often met with raised eyebrows or comments like, “Are you sure that’s for you?”

According to the National Skills Commission, women make up less than 3% of traditional trades in Australia. This underrepresentation isn’t about a lack of talent—it’s about bias. These outdated beliefs not only hold back individuals but also hurt industries facing growing skill shortages.

Tackling these challenges starts with recognising the problem, sharing real stories‌ and using the right apprenticeship support services to drive meaningful change. In this blog, we’ll break down the issue of gender stereotypes in vocational training and show how organisations like Mas National mentoring are helping women in trades succeed.

Understanding Gender Stereotypes in Vocational Training

Gender stereotypes are beliefs that certain jobs or skills are naturally better suited to one gender over another. In vocational education and training, this shows up when boys are encouraged to pursue engineering or carpentry, while girls are steered towards hairdressing or aged care.

These patterns are deeply ingrained. Teachers, parents, and even career counsellors can unknowingly influence young people’s choices, often based on outdated assumptions rather than individual strengths or interests.

This mindset becomes a barrier for women in apprenticeships, discouraging them from exploring trades and reducing the diversity of talent in industries that badly need it.

Why We Need More Women in Trades

Trades are some of the most stable, in-demand careers in Australia. With ongoing housing developments, infrastructure projects‌ and renewable energy rollouts, skilled workers are essential. Yet half the population is barely represented.

Bringing more women into trades isn’t about ticking a diversity box—it’s about fairness and economic necessity. A more inclusive workforce means:

• Broader perspectives and problem-solving approaches
• A larger pool of skilled workers
• Healthier, more balanced workplace cultures
• Better outcomes for customers and businesses
  

Removing the gender barrier helps break stereotypes in vocational training and makes the entire industry stronger.

The Role of Mas National and Mentoring Programs

One of the organisations leading the way in creating real change is Mas National. We offer apprenticeship support services and targeted mentoring to help both apprentices and employers navigate the journey.

For young women entering male-dominated fields, Mas National’s mentoring programs can be a game-changer. Having a mentor—someone who’s been there and understands the challenges—provides a support system, builds confidence, and improves retention.

These programs also help employers develop inclusive workplace practices, so that women in trades feel supported, respected, and empowered to thrive.

How Schools, Employers, and Communities Can Make a Difference

Overcoming gender bias isn’t the job of individuals alone—it’s a shared responsibility. Here’s how different stakeholders can help:

For Schools & Career Counsellors

• Offer equal exposure to all vocational paths, regardless of gender.
• Challenge stereotypes during career advice sessions.
• Invite female tradespeople to speak at school events.
  

For Employers

• Provide inclusive induction training and workplace culture workshops.
• Support mentoring and buddy systems for female apprentices.
• Make PPE and tools available in sizes suited to women.
  

For Communities

• Celebrate and promote women in apprenticeships through local media.
• Encourage parents to support daughters who are interested in trades.
• Create local campaigns that normalise women in tools-based roles.
  

A Future Where Trades Have No Gender

Challenging gender stereotypes in apprenticeships isn’t just a fight for equality—it’s a step towards a stronger, more skilled and balanced workforce. Australia can’t afford to leave half its population out of the trade conversation.

With the help of organisations like Mas National, better mentoring, and inclusive practices, we can create a future where anyone—regardless of gender—feels welcome in vocational training and empowered to build a meaningful career.