Between 2019 and 2021, the factory has doubled the number of women working on-site, thanks to a dedicated program of work experience, International Women’s Day events and school-based apprenticeships aimed at getting women of all ages interested in the rail sector. It’s helped local students like Tara Wieden get started in an exciting career in a growth industry.

“I applied to come to Downer for work experience through school holidays at end of grade 11 and was offered a job. I started my school-based apprenticeship in grade 12 then went full-time end of 2019 after school graduation,” she said.

Tara now works as a mechanical fitter and turner apprentice at the Maryborough factory, helping upgrade and overhaul trains from across Queensland. This includes maintenance and repairs to machinery, as well as fixing mechanical issues on the shop floor.

It’s an interesting and rewarding job, offering new challenges and the chance to build skills.

“The most challenging part of my job is diagnosing the problem and thinking outside the box to problem-solve on the job. My favourite part would have to be seeing all your work come together and the problem fixed or finished projects leaving the sheds,” says Tara.

Since the implementation of their updated diversity strategy in 2019, Downer’s Maryborough rail factory has increased female participation in their workforce to 12%, up from 5% in 2018. They’ve seen a surge in applications for apprenticeships from local girls who have attended International Women’s Day events or done work experience on-site.

With a strong pipeline of work in the years ahead, the future is bright for young people interested in working in rail.

Tara’s advice for those looking to kick-start a career is simple.

“My advice would be apply if you are genuinely interested in a trade, show interest in every task you are given, and try your hardest.”