Women: We Want You!

The gender divide starts early—from pink and blue onesies to playground stereotypes and later, career choices. While progress is being made, some industries remain overwhelmingly male-dominated. But that’s changing—and fast.

Today, women are not just breaking into traditionally male-heavy fields—they’re leading innovation, reshaping workplace culture, and boosting Australia’s economy. According to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, closing the gender pay gap could boost the Australian economy by up to $128 billion over 20 years.

So where are the opportunities? Here are six high-impact, high-potential industries calling for more women—and how you can step into them.

1. Information & Communication Technology (ICT)

Women currently make up just over 29% of the Australian ICT workforce, and the numbers drop significantly in leadership and technical roles. That means there’s enormous opportunity for growth—and the sector is actively investing in change.

Mentoring programs like WITEM (Women in IT Executive Mentoring) and industry bodies like Women in Technology are supporting women into ICT careers and executive roles.

Explore: online IT courses in cybersecurity, software development, data analysis, UX/UI and more.

2. Finance

Although women are well represented in general finance roles, they remain underrepresented in investment banking, funds management, and fintech. Cultural stereotypes, misconceptions, and a lack of visibility contribute to the imbalance.

But things are changing. Initiatives like Women in Focus and Femeconomy are championing women in finance, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

Explore: online finance and accounting courses to build skills in wealth management, fintech, and financial analysis.

3. Science

Despite women earning science degrees at similar rates to men, they are vastly underrepresented in research, STEM careers, and senior academic roles. The Office of the Chief Scientist has consistently highlighted the need to tap into this underutilised talent pool.

Grants like the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Fellowships and STEM engagement programs for girls are paving the way for more women to lead in this space.

Explore: online science courses in environmental science, biomedicine, forensic science and more.

4. Building & Construction

Construction remains one of Australia’s most male-dominated industries—with women comprising only around 14% of the workforce, and just 2–3% of trades roles. Yet demand for skilled tradespeople is at an all-time high due to infrastructure growth, housing demand, and a retiring workforce.

Programs like NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) and state-led apprenticeships are helping women break through barriers and find rewarding, well-paid careers on and off the tools.

Explore: certificates and diplomas in construction management, carpentry, plumbing and more.

5. Engineering

Engineering is another highly paid, high-impact field where women are seriously underrepresented—currently making up just 16% of the engineering workforce in Australia. The need for diversity in design, leadership, and innovation is driving national efforts to change that.

Scholarships, industry mentoring, and organisations like Women in Engineering (Engineers Australia) are providing pathways for future female engineers.

Explore: online engineering qualifications in civil, electrical, environmental and mechanical specialisations.

6. Leadership & Executive Management

Despite women comprising nearly half of the Australian workforce, only 22% of CEOs in WGEA-reporting organisations are women. The glass ceiling is still a reality, but women are increasingly stepping into boardrooms, C-suites, and founding their own companies.

Programs like Chief Executive Women and Board Ready Women are helping women prepare for senior leadership and board roles.

Explore: leadership and management courses to develop your executive skill set and strategic confidence.

It’s Time to Back Yourself

If you’ve ever thought, “That’s not for me,” when looking at a male-dominated industry, it might be time to think again. These sectors are actively looking for more women, and the support systems, scholarships, and demand are all aligned to help you succeed.

Ready to step into a new space? Explore our full range of courses and take the first step into a career that values what you bring to the table.