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Considering a career in manufacturing

Exciting career pathways and opportunities for women and girls leaving school or changing careers.

What is manufacturing

Manufacturing includes all businesses that physically or chemically transform materials or substances into new products (excluding agriculture and construction). It is a vital industry to the Victorian economy, employing over 260,000 people across nearly 24,000 businesses.

There are a range of well-paid and secure career pathways across the manufacturing industry, including in:

  • mechanical engineering
  • robotics
  • additive manufacturing
  • software engineering
  • design and packaging
  • metal fabrication.

Why don’t more women work in this sector

Victoria’s manufacturing industry has been historically male dominated. However, today there is a diverse range of roles and opportunities for people of all genders and identities across Victoria’s advanced manufacturing sector.

Outdated stereotypes about who belongs in certain professions can prevent some women and girls from pursuing a career in a male-dominated sector, such as manufacturing. These ideas are damaging and wrong – gender should never be a barrier to employment.

Women from all backgrounds are encouraged to consider a career in manufacturing, including women with disability, multicultural women, older women, and LGBTIQA+ women.

This strategy can support employers uphold their responsibility to ensure gender is not a barrier to employment, and create workplaces that are safe and supportive for everyone to participate and advance in.

How to get into the manufacturing workforce

There are many programs, events and initiatives across the state to encourage more women and girls to pursue study and careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

There are also many career support services available to guide you to a career in manufacturing, based on your needs and skill level.

Resources and information

Spotlight on Victorian Government action

The Trade and Tech Fit career expo

The Trade and Tech Fit career expo shows young women and gender diverse people the exciting world of trade and tech industries, including manufacturing.

The expo also highlights the rewarding and well-paid careers available in these industries.

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