Meet Emily
Emily’s a fourth-year apprentice in Victoria, working toward her Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology. Along the way, she’s gotten hands-on with CEA’s full equipment range—including machines from JCB, Dynapac, Atlas Copco, and Ditch Witch.
A Day in the Life
So, what does a typical day look like for Emily? “No two days are the same,” she says. “One day, I might be doing a PDI (pre-delivery inspection) on a brand-new machine. The next, I’m servicing equipment or diagnosing and fixing faults.”
It’s practical, hands-on work—and according to Emily, it’s never boring.
Finding Her Path
Emily didn’t always know she’d end up in heavy equipment, but she knew she wanted to build a strong mechanical foundation. “I wanted to understand how things work and eventually be able to work on my own car,” she explains. “I didn’t want to go into light vehicle and only work on other people’s cars. This trade gives me skills that cross over into something I actually love.”
For Emily, it wasn’t about following the “traditional” path; it was about choosing what interested her.
“One of the best parts of my apprenticeship is the support I get from the qualified techs I work with,” Emily says. “They push me to improve, build my knowledge, and get better every day. Having a team that backs you makes a huge difference—especially when you’re still learning.”
Breaking Stereotypes
Myth: You have to be super strong.
Reality: Strength builds over time. Skills and knowledge matter more.
“There are so many things you’re capable of as a woman in this trade,” Emily notes. “You build strength as you go, and you gain knowledge just like anyone else—as long as you work hard and stay passionate.”
Ultimately, trades aren’t about fitting a stereotype—they’re about skill, commitment, and a willingness to learn. CEA supports this growth with dedicated trainers who help apprentices build both technical skills and confidence, providing guidance on advocating for yourself and getting involved in different types of work.
Why Consider a Trade Career with CEA?
The heavy equipment industry is growing fast, which means job stability, career progression, and long-term opportunities. Beyond the technical side, women bring valuable skills to the workshop, including:
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Attention to detail
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Adaptability and determination
“The sooner you start, the sooner you’re qualified,” Emily says. “You’ll pick up knowledge faster and stop second-guessing yourself.”
Where Can an Apprenticeship Lead?
An apprenticeship is a starting point for a long-term career, not just a job. As your experience grows, so do your options. While many stay on the tools and specialise technically, others move into leadership or operational roles.
A typical career pathway might look like:
- Apprentice Technician
- Qualified Technician
- Senior or Leading Hand Technician
- Workshop Supervisor
- Service Manager / Operational Roles
- Technical Trainer / Specialist Support
Whether you move into sales, product support, or management, a trade provides the practical skills that serve as a foundation for life. With experience comes confidence, responsibility, and the chance to take on new challenges every day.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If you’re keen to follow in Emily’s footsteps and build a career with a team that has your back, we want to hear from you.
Explore our current opportunities and start your career with CEA today.
