This research, by ESITO, shares the stories of nine women in the electricity supply industry. The aim of the research is to gain a better understanding of how the electricity supply industry can develop strategies for a more diverse workforce.
Key Results
This research project tracked a cohort of nine female trainees as they completed their apprenticeships as line mechanics or cable jointers in the Electricity Supply Industry in New Zealand.
The project’s key findings relate to how the women negotiated their way as trainees in a traditionally male trade, and also to the human resource practices that were used by their employers through this process.
The findings draw attention to the skills that women bring to these non-traditional trades that differ from those usually offered by male trainees.
They also identify a need for work and family networks to support women working in non-traditional trades, and for work practices to address health and safety concerns that may be specific to (or more likely to be experienced by) women.