Flemington, Victoria, September 8, 2023 – In the heart of the Victorian Government’s ambitious Big Housing Build initiative, one inspiring apprentice is proving that age is no barrier to a rewarding career in the trades. Jenny Pace, a mature-aged apprentice and single mother of 3, has not only found her passion but is thriving in her role as a sprinkler fitter working on the Flemington housing precinct through Apprenticeships Victoria’s Big Build Apprenticeships program.
Jenny’s journey began when her oldest son became focused on his school work and career pathways after he recovered from a serious health issue. His motivation inspired her, and she started to explore new horizons for herself as well.
Taking a leap of faith, Jenny enrolled in a Certificate III Fire Protection, a four-year apprenticeship, and SRD Fire Protection Pty Ltd is now her host employer. Her resume was referred by NFIA, the National Fire Industry Association, which manages the SPRINKS project—a program in partnership with Apprenticeships Victoria through the Apprenticeship Innovation Fund. SPRINKS aims to remove barriers faced by women working in fire protection to encourage more women into the industry.
Jenny never imagined that a trade was a viable way for someone like her to support her family while doing a practical, hands-on job she enjoys.
“Prior to exploring this trade, I had never heard of a sprinkler fitter. Now I realise women have opportunities that were not available before. From this experience I’ve learned to be open-minded. If I were to advise women considering entering a trade, I’d say, ‘You might not have a direction, a plan, or you might not know what your passion is… but you won’t know what you enjoy if you don’t try new things.’”
An opportunity presented itself to Jenny and she was eager to learn, she says. She felt she had nothing to lose and only skills and experience to gain, so she gave her new trade a crack and she’s happy she did.
Jenny’s enthusiasm and determination are emblematic of the success stories emerging from the Big Build Apprenticeships program. Here are some of the benefits she highlighted:
- Hands-on learning opportunities and practical skills: Apprenticeships like Jenny’s offer invaluable hands-on training, equipping individuals with practical skills crucial to their chosen trades.
- Upskilling opportunities in the trades/construction industry: The program provides a pathway for apprentices to upskill and explore various career opportunities within the trades and construction sectors.
- Great working conditions and good pay: Apprenticeships through the Big Build program offer competitive pay and excellent working conditions, enabling participants to adequately support themselves and their families.
The Big Build Apprenticeships program offers Victorians the chance to pursue a rewarding career in a broad range of trades, regardless of age or background. Jenny’s success is inspiring and showcases the commitment of the Victorian Government to creating meaningful career pathways for all.
For more information on Big Build Apprenticeships, please visit www.apprenticeships.vic.gov.au/big-build-apprenticeships.
