Empowering women to kickstart a career in construction

23/01/2025

Downer Group, the leading provider of integrated services in Australia and New Zealand, has partnered with Wodonga TAFE to launch the Downer Building and Construction Women’s Scholarships to support women from the Albury-Wodonga region to pursue a career in the building and construction industry.

Downer has a proud history in the region, having successfully delivered a number of important projects – including two Defence projects at Benalla Munitions Facility and the Riverina Redevelopment Program across Wagga Wagga and Wodonga – which have generated ongoing employment opportunities and brought new capabilities, technologies and training initiatives to the local community.

The two Downer Building and Construction Women’s Scholarships are valued up to $6,000 each and are open to women enrolled in the Certificate IV Building and Construction (Site Management) with Wodonga TAFE. The scholarships aim to reduce the financial barriers students may experience pursuing tertiary education, and the funds can be used to assist with living, travel, childcare, learning resources or other costs associated with studying.

“As one of Australia’s largest employers, we are passionate about empowering local talent and investing in the next generation to drive lasting, positive outcomes for our customers and the communities where we live, work and play,” Design Director at Downer, Georgia Fugler, said.

“The region has already seen significant growth, with more anticipated. We’re thrilled about the potential this partnership has in supporting local women to upskill, and as a path to employment for them to step into critical roles in this vital industry.”

In addition to financial assistance, scholars will gain access to a Downer industry mentor throughout the 2025 academic year. The mentor will provide guidance on achieving long-term career aspirations and support scholars to identify employment opportunities following course completion. 

“At Wodonga TAFE, we are committed to creating opportunities for our students to succeed, and this partnership with Downer exemplifies that commitment," Wodonga TAFE Director of Education and Training, Janelle Cretney, said.

"By providing a scholarship specifically for our female students in the Certificate IV in Building and Construction, we aim to empower women to thrive in this dynamic industry, breaking down barriers and fostering diversity within the workforce. We’re excited to collaborate with Downer to make a meaningful impact and pave the way for future female leaders in construction.”

The scholarships will be awarded based on career aspirations and key strengths and will also take into consideration any barriers to success the candidate is experiencing.

"The Downer Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for women entering the construction industry," Education Leader Building Design and Construction at Wodonga TAFE, Geoff Hoare, said.

"It provides valuable financial support and encourages female students to pursue careers in a traditionally male-dominated field. This kind of support helps build confidence and opens pathways for success, while also promoting greater diversity in the construction workforce. It’s great to see initiatives like this making a difference."

Applications for the scholarships are open now, closing Friday, 14 February 2025.

For more information about Downer’s Building and Construction Women’s TAFE Scholarships, click here.