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The Carpenter
The Carpenter
The Carpenter is responsible for building the structures and fixtures of the home. She constructs, erects, installs, renovates and repairs fixtures made of wood, plywood, lightweight steel, wallboard and other materials.
Great carpenters are good with their hands, have meticulous attention to detail and get great satisfaction from seeing a home they secured be built. Whilst women make up only 1% of the carpentry workforce, inroads are being made to increase the number of female apprentices entering the trade.
Meet the carpenter: Bethany Mercieca
Carpenter and Junior Estimator Bethany Mercieca loves the creativity of her role. She uses her organisational skills, planning, problem solving and work ethic to bring a project to life. She was recognised for her hard work and positive attitude as the national award winner of 2023 HIA Jim Brookes Australian Apprentice of the Year.
'As a carpenter at Blue Eco Homes, I am privileged to be part of a team that is at the forefront of creating homes that are not only eco-friendly but also promote health and environmental well-being,' Bethany says.
'What I love most about my job is the ability to take raw materials and transform them into elegant, functional living spaces through the artistry of carpentry. This hands-on work allows me to see the immediate impact of my efforts, providing a profound sense of achievement and fulfillment,' she continues.
Bethany's top 5 tips
Build a network of mentorship and support.
Engaging with other women in the trades, whether through online platforms or local gatherings, can provide encouragement and invaluable guidance. Their shared experiences can help you navigate the unique challenges you may face.
Approach each opportunity with an eagerness to learn and evolve.
The trades provide a rich landscape of knowledge and skills. Maintaining an open mind will serve you well as you progress in your career.
Be assertive in advocating for yourself.
Address any biases or discriminatory practices you encounter. Use these moments as opportunities for education and change, reinforcing the need for inclusivity and respect within the industry.
Consider participating in pre-apprenticeship programs.
Seek educational opportunities to build a robust skill set. This foundational preparation will bolster your confidence and competitiveness in the job market.
You have every right to be in this field.
With determination, resilience, and passion, you can achieve extraordinary success and make a significant impact in the construction world.
Carpenters in Australia: key statistics
Employed
104,900Median age
31Female share
1%What a carpenter does
Interpret plans, specifications and drawings to determine carpentry materials required, dimensions and installation procedures.
Set out, construct and erect wall and ceiling frames, construct eaves, and erect roof trusses.
Construct and install structures such as walls, flooring systems, external stairs, paneling and partitions using mechanical fasteners such as nails, screws and brackets.
Fit and install windows and doors into wall frames, and install associated furnishings such as hinges, handles and locks.
Repair and renovate wooden structures, including by removing and replacing damaged or deteriorated timber.
Construct and install formwork for concrete structures.
How to get qualified
To get qualified as a carpenter, you can complete the Certificate III in Carpentry as part of your apprenticeship. Join the HIA apprentice program and start your new residential building career being supported every step of the way by our friendly and experienced team.
