Engineering Fabrication Trade ApprenticeshipAs a single mum of four, an immigrant, and the only woman in her fabrication class, Ana has turned every challenge into fuel for success.

What began as an eight-week welding course has grown into a thriving career in engineering and a national award recognising her impact.

Ana arrived in Australia from Peru in 2009 with determination and resilience. While navigating the Australian accent was challenging at first, it soon became a skill she mastered. Her identity is deeply shaped by her experience as an immigrant, and she carries strong pride in her South American roots.

Her journey into engineering began after she saw the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union promote a trade night on Instagram . Curious about the possibilities, she enrolled in an eight-week fabrication course. That experience led her into an engineering apprenticeship and then into completing her Certificate III in Engineering (Fabrication Trade) at Chisholm .

Now thriving in her trade, Ana works in a factory building large transporters. She finds power in knowing she can create anything out of scrap metal, seeing her work out in the real world and contributing to something bigger. Along the way, she has also become a recognisable and respected voice for women across the industry.

Surrounded by classmates during her studies, Ana naturally stepped into the role of a supportive “mumma bear,” guiding her peers and earning respect through her work ethic and leadership. “Once you find something that is your strength, that’s where you grow,” she says.

Ana attributes much of her success to her teacher, Rod, who became a mentor in the workshop. He encouraged her to believe in herself and to confidently explore new welding techniques.

Her achievements soon gained wider recognition. After speaking on the Empowered Women in Trades podcast, Ana was nominated for the 2025 Empowered Women in Trades Apprentice of the Year award. When her name was announced as the winner at the gala, she described the moment as surreal. “I felt like I won an Oscar,” she says.

The award opened doors Ana never imagined. She was invited to interviews, gained industry recognition, and developed a growing platform to advocate for women entering trades. At home, her children proudly tell people their mum is a celebrity.

Ana was also featured in Tradie Magazine , highlighting her passion and accomplishments. Published both online and in print, the feature was unexpected but deeply validating. “I felt really rewarded for my efforts,” she says.

Ana hopes her story will inspire other women to see what’s possible when you take a leap into a career in engineering. Her message is simple: “Come on girls, you can do it. Doors aren’t closed for you. Turn the page and write your own story.”