From the Farm to Commercial Construction – Nicole’s Journey

Third-year Master Builders Carpentry Apprentice Nicole Sultana is making significant strides in the construction industry. Currently working on the Mason and Main job site for Coronation, Nicole’s role varies from hands-on building tasks to assisting supervisors and even taking on some supervisory safety tasks herself. Her journey is a testament to the growing opportunities and support for women in trades and Nicole is making the most of those opportunities.

Growing up on a farm, Nicole was always outdoors, working with her hands and embracing the nature around her. This is the passion that led her to explore various trades during her high school years. “I’ve always loved working with my hands growing up. In high school, I did a construction VET course which gave me a broad understanding of what different trades would be like. There was plumbing and electrical, but carpentry seemed like the better option for me,” she explains.

Onsite with third-year Master Builders Carpentry Apprentice Nicole Sultana with Supervisor Glenn at the Mason and Main project for Coronation.

Nicole was introduced to Master Builders through a friend who recommended the Pre-Apprenticeship program. After completing the 3-week introductory Carpentry program, Master Builders helped Nicole secure a placement with a Host Employer to start her apprenticeship. After spending some time in residential building, Nicole decided she’d like to gain experience in Commercial Building. Through the help of Master Builders, it is here that Nicole found her true calling. An advantage of being a Master Builders Apprentice, are the opportunities that are available to broaden your work experiences throughout your apprenticeship and find your niche.

One of the aspects Nicole enjoys most about her apprenticeship is the diversity of experiences it offers. “Every day is a new day, and I can learn different things. Watching a project go from start to finish and feeling like I’ve accomplished something within helping the team is incredibly rewarding,” she shares. She aspires to build her career working towards a supervisor role and then Project Management. Nicole feels well-prepared for her future career thanks to the training and support from Master Builders and her Host Employer Coronation.

Being a woman in a male-dominated industry comes with its unique challenges and rewards. Nicole’s experience has been mainly positive, thanks to the supportive environment fostered by the Master Builders and Coronation teams.

“In high school, when I was completing my teamwork assessment in the construction course, even though I was the only girl in the class, I was comfortable and at ease because I’d been learning with the boys since year seven.”

On the job site, Nicole emphasises the importance of resilience and camaraderie. “You have to be able to work along guys and not take everything so personally. My advice to young females wanting to go into the construction industry would be that you’ve got to have an open mind and understand that the banter helps people get through their hard-working day”.

The support from Master Builders has been instrumental in Nicole’s success. Her Field Officer Karen, has been a constant source of encouragement. “Karen comes out for monthly visits to check in on how I am on-site and off-site to make sure I am okay. She has become a work mum and a work friend in one as well as my Field Officer.” This level of support has made a significant difference, especially during challenging times.

Nicole believes that the building and construction industry offers excellent career opportunities for women. “I think doing a trade is a great career for women as you are exposed to a broad range of opportunities,” she states. Looking ahead, Nicole plans to complete the Diploma of Project Management and eventually become a Project Manager.

Nicole Sultana’s story is an inspiring example of how determination, passion, and the right support can help break barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries. Her journey not only highlights the importance of women in trades but also underscores the wealth of opportunities available to those willing to pursue them.

If you’re considering making a start in the construction industry or would like to learn more about the career pathways it has to offer, reach out to the Master Builders team at apprenticeship@mbansw.asn.au or by visiting our website mbaapprenticeship.com.au

WATCH NICOLE’S VIDEO

 

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MBAS and MBRS are services offered by Master Builders Association of New South Wales Pty Ltd, ABN 11 074 397 532 (Master Builders) which is the Apprenticeship Services arm of Master Builders Association of New South Wales, ABN 96 550 042 906

© 2021 by Master Builders Association (NSW)

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This document outlines the direct debit arrangements between Master Builders Association of NSW Pty Ltd, ABN 11 074 397 532 (MBANSW) and you.

MBANSW is the registered Group Training Organisation and Apprenticeship Services arm of Master Builders Association of New South Wales, ABN 96 550 042 906 (Master Builders)

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Direct Debit Terms and Conditions

  • Your nominated account or credit card will be debited weekly for hosting a MBAS or MBAS+ apprentice or trainee.
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Please note that if your payment is dishonoured by your financial institution, a re-draw will take place within 7 days.

Any transaction fees payable by MBANSW in respect to a dishonoured payment will be added to your account.

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Please direct all enquiries to MBAS (02) 8586 3533 or apprenticeship@mbansw.asn.au;

Please include your phone and email address.

I/We authorise MBANSW to arrange for funds to be debited from my/our nominated account at the financial institution identified below.

This authority to direct debit will remain in place in accordance with these Terms and Conditions.