It’s more than just a job
Elisa Dahl had just invested $50,000 into a beauty business when a DIY project made her realise she was on the wrong career path.
Elisa was a qualified Beauty Therapist and Nail Artist for 15 years and had ran her own business for seven but it was a DIY project that made her realise her true passion for cabinetry, “When I opened my own business, I wanted a specific shelf but nothing really fit the vision and everything was so expensive. I thought why not make it myself?” she said.
“I realised it was something I really enjoyed doing, so why not make a career out of it? I was hesitant to shut down by business and completely change course, but I just went you know what? I’d been in business for years and I was start-ing to get a little over it. I said bugger it. Let’s just do it. Let’s make the change.”
Elisa’s friend and now work-mate John McCallum encouraged her to apply for a job with his employer Trimview. Elisa didn’t let this opportunity pass, submitted her resume and constantly followed up with employer Grant DeJersey, which impressed him and made him want to give her a chance.
Turning that passion into reality with Mas Careers
Since Elisa was new to the field and had no qualifications, it wasn’t an easy transition. However, with the support from Mas National, the career transition from beauty to cabinetry was made simple.
Mas connected Elisa with TrimView, and found an apprenticeship within her chosen field. They provided career advice, guidance and facilitated the whole apprenticeship administration, making it easy for both Elisa and Trimview,
“Mas have been so supportive making sure I had all the resources I needed and if I had any issues, they made sure I had access to counselling but thankfully it was not needed but knowing that support network is behind me was very reassuring,” she said.
Elisa has since completed her Certificate III in Cabinet Making whilst getting paid on the job. , “It’s something I really enjoy doing. I enjoy the precision and the craftsmanship that goes into each piece, and knowing that it’s going to be something that lasts in someone’s home,” Elisa said.
Trimview owner and managing director Grant said Elisa brought a level of enthusiasm to the crew, “She very quickly jumped in as part of the team. Regardless of her gender, it was her personality and enthusiasm that got her the role. Anyone that comes in with that energy and vigour, will absolutely do well in a trade,” he said.
Grant said it would be fantastic to see more women in trades, “We certainly hope that the gender barrier for women in trades is broken and more women should be encouraged to apply for an apprenticeship if it’s something they wish to do. We look at Elise, who’s come from the beauty industry which is the polar opposite to what she’s doing now, but she fitted in straight away which shows it doesn’t matter what background you come from.”
Grant said Mas was also very supportive when it came to hiring new apprentices, “Mas have been there when we needed them but they’re not in our pocket when we don’t. If we needed any support, they’re very quick to respond and assist however they need to; it’s been very worthwhile working with them.”
Elisa’s one bit of advice for other women interested in a trade is ‘go for it’.
“It is still a very male dominant industry, but I think if you just have the guts to get in and do it, it’s a fantastic industry to be in and from what I’ve been hearing, women tend to have more of an eye for detail as tradies. I say, just give it a go especially if you are interested, it might be something that you’d really enjoy,” she said.