Women Driving Change in Construction and Plant Operations
The construction sector has long carried a reputation for being male-dominated, and nowhere is this more visible than in plant and machinery operations. National statistics show that women make up less than 6% of forklift operators in Australia, highlighting a significant gender imbalance. Yet, the tide is slowly shifting as more women pursue qualifications in high-risk licences, civil plant, and site operations.
Breaking Barriers with Forklifts
In Sydney, female forklift operators are challenging outdated stereotypes. Their presence on worksites not only addresses skill shortages but also brings fresh perspectives to efficiency and workplace culture. Many employers now see the value in actively encouraging women to apply for roles that were once considered “off-limits.”
Reproduced: Sophie Orupe loves her job as an M3 Logistics forklift driver. She believes more women should enter the industry. (ABC News: Fletcher Yeung)
Beyond Forklifts – Expanding Opportunities in Plant
The opportunities extend far beyond forklifts. Women are increasingly entering training pathways for excavators, skid steers, rollers, dozers, and cranes. These skills are in demand across civil construction, utilities, and logistics. With government and industry pushing for greater workforce diversity, employers are keen to support female recruits into plant and equipment operations.
How Training Providers Are Supporting Women
Pipeline Training Australia, a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 91431), has responded with flexible, nationally recognised programs that cater to both beginners and experienced operators. Courses range from forklift licensing (TLILIC0003) to civil plant units such as:
- RIIMPO320F – Conduct Excavator Operations
- RIIMPO318F – Conduct Skid Steer Loader Operations
- RIIMPO317F – Conduct Roller Operations
- RIIHAN305D – Operate a Gantry or Overhead Crane
- Verification of Competency (VOC) assessments across multiple machines
Download the course schedule 2025 here
Training is delivered at Pipeline’s Rouse Hill facility or onsite, with upcoming schedules throughout 2025 covering everything from confined space to metering and high-risk work
2025-3rd-quarter-course-schedul…
Creating Pathways for Career Growth
For women considering a career in construction, these qualifications provide more than tickets—they open doors to well-paid roles in councils, utilities, and contracting firms. The structured training, combined with the industry’s growing recognition of female talent, is creating genuine pathways for long-term careers.
A Call to Action
The gender skew in plant operations remains stark, but the message is clear: women are not only capable—they are excelling. With training and support from organisations such as Pipeline Training, the next generation of operators will look very different from the last.
👉 Find out more about Pipeline’s upcoming courses and enrolment options here: Pipeline Training Courses