Called the Women Who Weld program, it is a partnership between SkillsTech Australia and Manufacturing Skills Queensland.

With the continuing skills shortage this is an opportunity for women to sample what the metal fabrication industry has to offer.

SkillsTech Australia business manager metal fabrication and boilermaking Chris Naylor said the centre had been working closely with industry and had the support of Manufacturing Skills Queensland.

“This course offers a basic skill set, which runs during a 15-week period and is based on four competency modules, which will result in students receiving a statement of attainment,” he said.

“The course is hands-on with basic level theory concepts aimed to give women a taste of the opportunities available in the manufacturing, engineering and resource sectors.

“This course can be used as a platform to progress on to further study, such as the Certificate II or III in Metal Fabrication.”

The program is government-funded and concessions may be available for eligible students at the time of enrolment.