Caitlyn Goodman is a third-year carpentry apprentice in Victoria.

During her childhood, Caitlyn Goodman, one of four sisters, never imagined she would pursue a career in carpentry.

The idea of becoming a tradeswoman simply hadn’t crossed her mind.

Yet, the early indicators of her interest were evident.

“My father worked as a fencer, and he introduced me to power tools when I was young. I always felt a strong attraction to them,” shared Goodman, now 22.

Caitlyn Goodman is a third-year carpentry apprentice in Victoria.
Caitlyn Goodman is a third-year carpentry apprentice in Victoria.(Supplied)

Any initial apprehensions she had soon vanished.

Goodman discovered a close-knit, encouraging team and was thrilled to work alongside another female carpenter.

“She’s made me feel a lot more comfortable working in the industry,” Goodman said. “I don’t get treated differently, and I don’t get treated with disrespect.”

Goodman is a staunch advocate for the trades, especially for other women.

“Every single time I tell people what I do, they go, ‘Oh, really?’ or they think I’m lying,” she said.

“I tell other girls – why not? Just do it. 

“I’m going to graduate and be able to actually save up to buy a house, rather than paying off student debt.”

Tradie salaries by occupation

  • Electrician $95,000 – $115,000
  • Plumber $85,000 – $100,000
  • Carpenter $80,000 – $95,000
  • Painter $80,000 – $90,000
  • Bricklayer$75,000 – $85,000

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