Construction course paves pathways for women

Julia Bebenek came to construction from a very different discipline – music performance.

“I did a double major Bachelor’s Degree in performance and composition. I play drums, mainly jazz and South Indian drumming. I played at weddings but on the financial side, it wasn’t sustainable. I wanted a more financially secure lifestyle.”?

This lifestyle would come in the way of a construction career, after being inspired by observing her father from a young age.?

“My dad is a mechanic by trade, brilliant and smart. He built our house; he can repair anything.? I’ve always been in awe about how he can turn nothing into something. I really wanted to know how to do that”.

Using this inspiration as a starting point, Julia officially made the move into construction when she heard a story on the radio about the industry needing more women.

This led her to a role as a traffic controller, however, she was soon ready for a greater challenge. Enter Sheforce Recruitment & Labour Hire , a recruitment company specialising in women in construction.

Through SheForce, Julia expanded her skill set and started electrical spotting. Then, following hard work and dedication, she was offered a place in the She Kan Build Program, a unique skill-building program designed to create pathways into skilled and sustainable work for women starting out in construction.

Delivered by Kangan Institute , participants from SheForce undertook 4 weeks of intensive skills training, sponsored by Level Crossing Removal Project's Training for The Future program.

The training involved learning how to use tools, reading plans, understanding site and rail safety and most importantly – working within a team.

After completing the training, Julia started working on the Holden Road, Calder Park level crossing removal project.

Supported by the site team, Julia worked onsite for 3 months, applying her new skills and knowledge. As soon as she started, her construction career just clicked: “that’s it – that’s what I want to do.”?

“I love jumping in the truck and tipping off. Operating machinery is a lot of fun. Even jobs like jumping in the mud and digging things out, I enjoy it.”

And it wasn’t just construction skills she learnt from the project – she was also able to develop soft skills, including gaining confidence in her role.

“When I started, I had no idea what they were talking about. I just had to be patient and not afraid to ask questions. Now, I feel a lot more confident and comfortable.”

When asked what’s next for Julia, she says she is just happy to continue learning and growing her skills in the industry.

“I’m still learning stuff every day. Just yesterday, I used the scissor lift – even though I have a fear of heights!”.

Following from there, Julia would love to do anything that keeps her in the industry, such as an apprenticeship. ?

And for those women looking for a career change or exploring a career in the construction industry, Julia has this piece of advice:

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions…you can do things the same as others who are stronger, you just need to be smart about it. Or say hey, come and help.”

To learn more about Training for the Future and our other employment and training programs, check out the Victoria's Big Build website.