metal matriarchs
Metal Matriarchs: Empowering First Nations Women in Engineering
We’re thrilled to launch Metal Matriarchs – a bold new initiative by The Skill Engineer Ltd., proudly funded through the NSW Government’s Return to Work Pathways Program. Kicking off on the Central Coast in July 2025, this 12-month program supports First Nations women to re-enter the workforce and carve out a future in non-traditional trades.
Participants will gain a nationally recognised Certificate II in Engineering, build practical skills in a real-world workshop, and take part in meaningful employment or self-employment pathways. From welding bespoke outdoor furniture and sculptures to gaining industry experience and tech skills, the program offers a powerful mix of hands-on training and personal development.
Metal Matriarchs is guided by First Nations staff and Elders, ensuring a culturally safe, supportive space that stays grounded in community values. Field trips, work readiness workshops, and certificates like forklift training are all part of the experience – helping each participant grow in skills, confidence, and capability.
We’re proud to partner with:
- InTech, our Registered Training Organisation, bringing high-quality vocational education and proven outcomes.
- WISE Employment, our referral partner on the Central Coast, helping connect women with training, support services, and job opportunities.
- Bara Barang will provide mentoring, goal tracking, and workplace support to help participants build confidence, strengthen cultural identity, and become the best they can be. Their guidance will support women throughout training, employment pathways, and beyond.
Participants will also explore micro-business ideas, build financial literacy, and access health and wellbeing support to improve life outcomes beyond the workplace.
Metal Matriarchs builds on the success of our Girls of Steel program, which led to apprenticeships, full-time work, self-employment, and further study for dozens of young women across the region.
Media Release – Metal Matriarchs
For more information, please fill out the enquiry form below.
Acknowledgement
We acknowledge the traditional owners of this land, the Darkinung, Pangerang and Yawuru peoples and pay respects to their elders past and present. We thank them for sharing their country, their culture and their language.We look to the future with hope as we walk side by side with our First Nations people in the spirit of reconciliation and truth telling.
Tuggerah, NSW
Ph: (02) 4304 3031
14/1 Bounty Close, Tuggerah NSW 2259
Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wangaratta, VIC
Ph: (03) 5737 4257
10-12 Gibson Street, Wangaratta VIC 3677
Monday to Friday, 7am - 5pm
Broome, WA
Ph: 0428 995 955
41 Blackman St, Broome WA 6725
Monday to Friday 8:00am - 2:00pm
Contact Us
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Written complaints may be sent to info@theskillengineer.com.au.