For decades, female trades in Australia have been breaking stereotypes. They’re bringing precision, problem-solving skills, and new ideas to the table, as well as embracing inclusivity and empowerment.

Becoming a trade offers so much – from secure employment opportunities and financial security to real flexibility and uncapped earning potential.

So, when do young Australians, particularly females, first discover their passion for being in the building and construction industry? Many find the interest well before their school leaving years – in fact, the spark may start in childhood.

Recognising this trend, the US-based National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) turned to Mollie Elkman, who’s passionate about driving growth across the building industry. She was commissioned to write an inspirational children’s book, The House That She Built.

This colourful work, illustrated by Georgia Castellano, is aimed at girls aged from five to seven years. According to HIA’s Deputy Managing Director, Kristin Brookfield, it drew inspiration from a real story. A group of women came together to build a one-of-a-kind home in Utah and managed to break down the stereotypical roles during the build.

‘It was incredibly well received in the USA,’ says Kristin, ‘and we knew it would translate well in Australia. The new release – The House That She Built Australia – serves as a call to action, encouraging young minds to explore, create and develop skills that help build confidence and character.’

In addition, HIA joined with MiTek, a trusted innovation partner in off-site construction and a passionate advocate for a more inclusive building industry, to launch She Builds The Future. This website is designed to inspire, educate and promote diversity in the residential building industry.

As Kristin says, ‘We are committed to raising awareness of construction careers for under-represented communities. Women currently make up just 15% of the industry in Australia.’

This inspirational and educational site, She Builds The Future, details various roles women could try in the building industry, providing descriptions, statistics and qualification information.

‘We include real-world stories of Australian women doing the jobs, revealing their background and their experiences,’ says Kristin. ‘The website aims to empower women when exploring the world of home building from a young age.’

The initiative will provide a series of events and promotional activities across HIA and MiTek platforms throughout the year.

MiTek Managing Director David Oliver is excited about the collaboration. ‘HIA and MiTek will open doors for the next generation of builders, tradespeople, manufacturers and fabricators,’ he says.

‘By supporting initiatives such as The House That She Built in Australia and New Zealand, and through She Builds The Future, HIA and MiTek are paving the way for a more inclusive workforce. Women with diverse talents are not just welcomed but empowered to lead, thrive and contribute meaningfully to the construction industry.’

The book and website launch is just the beginning. ‘We want to use this platform to connect with the industry, and influence and gain support from government and education decision-makers,’ says Kristin.

And as for the author Mollie, she has created the She Built Foundation. ‘I’m thrilled to see HIA and MiTek bring The House That She Built to Australia,’ she says. ‘The most catalytic way to inspire girls is to reach them early in their development and rally the support of their communities around them. Let's keep encouraging the next generation of builders.’

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Brand promotion: This article was compiled with contributions from MiTek

First published on 12 May 2025