It wasn’t just about building a cubby house; it was about building life skills, relationships, confidence and each other. Photo: Supplied.
Stepping out of your comfort zone can feel daunting, but I’ve been told it’s where growth occurs.
When I first entered the SPARK Women in Construction Taster program, every tool I picked up initially felt intimidating. I had no idea what to expect, but as soon as I walked into CIT Bruce, I was met with friendly faces and expert mentorship.
This fee-free construction pre-apprenticeship enabled accessible education and potential employment pathways, highlighting its inclusion and opportunities.
I was joined by 13 other women, all from different walks of life. Together, we committed to seven weeks of theory and hands-on learning. Our cohort quickly figured how much value there is in trying something we’d never considered.
We learned how to apply WHS practices on site, take measurements, make calculations, and plan out a basic construction project from start to finish. We each earned a White Card, Asbestos Awareness Card, and Silica Training Card, reinforcing the seriousness of our work.
The program covered the cost of these cards for each participant – I was not only given skills for life, but qualifications that set me up for future success.
CIT educator Kate Anderson, author and SPARK graduate Ruby Garrety with Ginninderry head of sustainability and community development Jessica Stewart. Photo: Supplied.
It’s easy to get discouraged when even a simple drill and measuring tape seem foreign. Just a few years ago, giving up would have been tempting. But each time I learned to use one, my confidence grew, and I realised this wasn’t about becoming an expert overnight. It was about proving to myself that I could give it a go.
Beyond the tools, SPARK introduced us to a range of transferable skills. Producing a scaled floor plan of my own bedroom showed me how construction knowledge applies beyond the site. I was able to redesign and retrofit my space for better functionality, and that independence alone felt empowering.
Problem‑solving and critical thinking skills became mental tools I could use anywhere.
The most eye-opening aspect of SPARK was how hands-on our work got to be. We weren’t just watching demonstrations; we left each day covered in sawdust from the work we’d done.
From crafting a mallet to assembling a mini sawhorse and even constructing the frame and roof of a cubby house, each task demanded precision and patience.
One of my biggest challenges came during our first project. As I drew my final measurements for an old-school wooden mallet, I realised something didn’t look right.
Rather than trying to sort it all out on my own, I went to my peers for help. We identified and solved the problem together, which our mentors acknowledged as a great demonstration of teamwork and persistence.
The relationships I built through SPARK were just as valuable as the skills I gained.
Working alongside other women, each with unique experiences, created a sense of belonging and encouragement that made the challenges easier to face.
Mentors like Mel and Chrissie from UnitingCare Kippax, stakeholders from Ginninderry, Emma from The Umbrella Collective, and our CIT teacher Kate, offered endless insights into the breadth of opportunities available.
Industry leaders such as Jo Farrell from Build Like a Girl shared their own career journeys, educating us on how determination and passion carve personalised paths in construction.
I’m incredibly grateful for the time, effort, and belief they invested in each and every one of us.
SPARK reshaped my confidence. It helped me develop resilience when things didn’t go as planned, patience when mistakes slowed me down, and an appreciation for working with others. My growth brought me great pride, and that made every struggle worthwhile.
Entering an industry stereotypically viewed as male-dominated changed the way I see myself and the standard I hold myself to. I learned that I can adapt, persevere, and thrive in spaces I once believed weren’t for me.
But what sticks with me most are the minute details – the smell of sawdust clinging to my clothes, the buzz of power tools through my hands, and the sheer exhaustion that comes from chiselling, cutting, and hammering all day.
Even if I don’t pursue a career in trades, I’m now equipped with a newfound confidence, practical skills, and insight into an industry filled with potential.
Above all, I learned that sometimes the biggest project you can work on is yourself. Taking that leap of faith may feel daunting, but if you embrace the challenge, you may just discover how capable you really are.
If you or someone you know is interested in participating, keep an eye on the Ginninderry SPARK Training & Employment page for more upcoming programs.
Ruby Garrety is a Media and Communications student at the University of Canberra.
