Meet Amy Shepard – Welding & Fabrication Apprentice at WF Industries in Dubbo.

After spending over ten years working as a chef, Amy made a bold move. She swapped the kitchen for the workshop and started an apprenticeship in boilermaking. Growing up on a farm, she was always drawn to machinery and how things worked, so engineering felt like a natural fit.

“Seeing a pile of steel turn into a massive structure is so rewarding. I’ve finally found something I’m passionate about.”

Switching to a trade wasn’t without its challenges. Amy says the physical side of the job was tough at first, but with time, support from her team, and a lot of work in the gym, she pushed through.

“Boilermaking can be physically demanding. At the start, strength was a struggle but I worked at it. There are also heaps of tools and gear to make the job easier. You don’t have to do it all on your own.”

What’s surprised her most is just how many directions a trade like this can take you.

“There’s so much variety in the work. You can stick with general fabrication or specialise in something specific. There’s room to go wherever you want.”

Amy’s next step is to get her drafting qualifications – she’s taken a real interest in mechanical drawing and design, and wants to be ready for where the industry’s heading.

“One day, I’d love to mentor young tradies, especially women. I didn’t see female tradies growing up and I think if I had, my path might’ve looked pretty different.”

Her advice to other young women thinking about a career in engineering?

“Find the part that interests you. There are so many ways in. Trades, uni, hands-on or technical. You don’t have to fit into a box.”

And when it comes to what women in trades want?

“We’re not here for special treatment. We’re here because we love what we do.”

On this International Women in Engineering Day, we’re proud to share Amy’s story a reminder that it’s never too late to follow your passion and make your mark.