This Article is a continuation of the previous article, read it here!

Orlagh Brady | @obrady.builds

A self-employed carpenter based in Brisbane, proudly holds the title of EWIT’s Tradie Lady of the Year 2023

What inspired you to become a chippy?

When I was younger, I discovered immense joy in rearranging my room, infusing it with my personality, and creating a space that felt cozy and uniquely mine. Each redesign felt like solving a creative puzzle, and I enjoyed every minute of it. This love for crafting my environment ignited a passion for design and flat-pack furniture building, stirring my curiosity and sparking a desire to explore the realm of construction on a much bigger scale. At the age of 20, I shared my dream of one day building my own house with my dad. His response? “So, you want to be a carpenter?” His words struck a chord with me, resonating deeply with my aspirations of being hands-on and mastering the art of building homes. This realisation excited me, aligning perfectly with my vision for a fulfilling career. I embarked on a day trial with a carpenter. There, I had the opportunity to apply my skills and enthusiasm in a professional setting, laying the groundwork for what would evolve into my rewarding journey as a carpenter. This experience not only solidified my career path but also reinforced my belief that young women, like myself, have a place in the world of carpentry, where creativity, skill, and dedication flourish. 

 What’s your favourite thing about being a chippy? 

My favourite thing about being a chippy is the opportunity it gives me to create something tangible with my own hands. There is a unique sense of fulfilment that comes from taking raw materials and shaping them into something functional and beautiful, like pieces of furniture or structures. It’s incredibly empowering to see the results of my hard work and skill, and knowing that my efforts have played a role in constructing something that will last for generations to come. 

 Any big dreams or goals? 

As a young female carpenter, I have big dreams and ambitious goals that fuel my drive and passion for this profession. One of my dreams is to establish my own design company & woodworking studio or carpentry business, where I can unleash my creativity and craftsmanship to design and build unique structures. Additionally, I aspire to be a mentor and advocate for other young women who are interested in pursuing careers in carpentry or the skilled trades. I want to break down barriers and inspire more women to enter this field, empowering them to realise their potential and contribute their talents to the industry. On a larger scale, I dream of using my carpentry skills to make a positive impact on my community and beyond. Whether it’s through volunteering my time and expertise to build affordable housing or participating in sustainability initiatives to promote eco-friendly construction practices, I aim to leave a lasting legacy of craftsmanship and service. Ultimately, my goal is to continue honing my skills, pushing the boundaries of possibility in the realm of carpentry, and leaving my mark on the world through my work. 

Fave thing to do to unwind after a day on the tools? 

After a long day of working on the tools, my favourite way to unwind is to spend some quality time outdoors, perhaps taking a peaceful walk in nature or enjoying a refreshing hike. Being surrounded by natural beauty helps me clear my mind and recharge my energy. Alternatively, I might indulge in some creative activities like painting, sketching, or woodworking as a way to further unwind while still engaging my hands and mind in a different way. And of course, there’s nothing quite like sinking into a cozy chair with a good book or watching a favourite movie to relax and escape from the day’s hustle. Overall, whether it’s connecting with nature, engaging in creative pursuits, or simply relaxing with a good book, finding moments of peace and enjoyment outside of work helps me rejuvenate and prepare for the next day ahead.

 

Monique Elliott | @chippymon

Female chippy apprentice working for Think Built in Ulladulla.

What inspired you to become a chippy?

Other than PDHPE at school, woodwork was my best subject to the point where I even had other boys in my class not like it and they would mess with my jobs if I left the room! I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I left school and my teachers didn’t know what to tell me. After years being bored at different jobs I walked past and saw Bardie [Sommerville]  working on a job site, came home and told my partner I wanted to be a chippy, I haven’t looked back since. It was a no brainer, I just never took the leap. 

What’s your favourite thing about being a chippy? 

My favourite thing about being a chippy would have to be seeing something come together in front of your eyes and knowing the hard work and time you spent creating it. A lot of people see the finished product but what they don’t see is all the hours of the stuff underground or what they will never see the pretty stuff is just the icing on top! The 8 hour workout is a bonus as well, plus the tunes all day.

 Any big dreams or goals? 

I would love to have my own business one day, I want to be someone people want to work for! I’d ideally have a business partner, I’ve seen the dynamic that had for the first company I was at and it’s something I truely loved as an employee. I have my sights set on someone I would love to run a building company with.

Fave thing to do to unwind after a day on the tools? 

If I can’t get to the gym before work, I always go to my CrossFit gym in the afternoon, it sounds crazy after being on the tools all day but it’s the best thing for my head and my body. I also love taking my dog to the beach for a swim, I might love it more than she does! And if I ever get the time, a cheeky game of golf towards the end of the week always hits the spot 👌🏽

 

Jayme Pickering | @chippyjim_

1st Yr Apprentice working for Robson Building in Gerringong.

What inspired you to become a chippy?

I became a chippy straight after I finished school in 2021. My inspiration to start was my uncle who gave me a head start in the carpentry industry giving me a job. I loved getting my hands dirty and thought it would be fun. Throughout high school I participated in woodwork as a subject and loved that also. 

What’s your favourite thing about being a chippy? 

My favourite thing about being a chippy is the look people give me when they ask what I do and I say “I’m a carpentry apprentice”. This is because no one expects it and I think most people appreciate the fact that the trade industry is slowly introducing female acceptances. I also love the fact that I get to spend my days outside, and with some of the most amazing blokes.

Any big dreams or goals? 

My dream is to start an all female carpentry crew. I want to eventually get my building license to then start my own business. I would love to be able to employ only females and also subcontract females from plumbers, electricians all the way down to the surveyors. 

Fave thing to do to unwind after a day on the tools? 

My favourite thing to do after work is walk my puppy. Also to spend time with my family, friends and my partner. I love to read, and try to spend a chunk of my night reading before bed.

 

Kelsey Murdoch | @Adelaide.Chippy.Mumma

Chippy from Adelaide South Australia.

What inspired you to become a chippy?

I have many people ask me what inspired me to be a chippy and most of the time I don’t really know what to say. My father is a chippy by trade and my brother is also a carpenter, growing up I’ve always love being hands on & creating things. Academically I never really excelled highly, but always thrived in tech work, I then made the decision to pursue my career with timber in moving to a trade College to finish the rest of my schooling whilst completing my Cert II in Construction.

What’s your favourite thing about being a chippy? 

My favourite thing about being a chippy is seeing the work come together, but most importantly, the final outcome. Being outside, and having the freedom to use your creative side is something I thrive off.

Any big dreams or goals? 

A life goal of mine at the moment is to try & encourage other females including youth, mothers, breastfeeding mothers ect to know anything is possible. With being a mother myself to two beautiful little girls, still breastfeeding & being a Trade Trainer at an RTO, I hope to set an example for everyone that you can do it. Whilst I split my weeks up working on the tools & training Certificate II in Construction I hope to set a foundation not only for females but males as well to break the stigma of women in trades.

Fave thing to do to unwind after a day on the tools? 

My favourite thing to do to unwind from being on the tools all day is come home to my girls. Seeing the smiles on their faces and spending quality time with them.