Australian Trade Training College (ATTC) trainer, Jade Mellor, is not only imparting carpentry skills but also paving the way for more women to succeed in traditionally male-dominated trades.
Hailing from the Midlands in England, the 33-year-old has overcome significant personal challenges, including a lifelong battle with epilepsy, to pursue her passion for carpentry.
“When I was in high school, I always wanted to do carpentry but because I was an epileptic, I couldn’t fully pursue it due to health and safety concerns. So, I did everything in between – from production, arts, design, stage building, set design and special effects. It was all random, but I still always wanted to be a carpenter,” Jade said.
After a visit to Australia nine years ago, Jade was certain she wanted to return and study there. In 2017, she underwent a life-changing brain surgery that allowed her to chase her true passion. In 2020, she made her way back to Australia and decided to live out both of her dreams at once. With her surgery a year behind her, she enrolled as an international student at TAFE Queensland to earn a Certificate III in Carpentry.
While studying at TAFE, Jade became a mentor at National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), a networking and mentoring group for women in trades. Still an active member, Jade provides guidance and encourages women to enter the field, helping them navigate their careers with confidence.
This year, Jade discovered ATTC and secured a role as a trainer at its Meadowbrook site. She has now dedicated herself to empowering the next generation of carpenters, with a particular focus on supporting and mentoring women.
Through her work with NAWIC, Jade is actively challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers in the industry, “It can be intimidating when you don’t see many women on-site but that’s changing. More women are joining the industry every day, and it’s thrilling to be part of that shift.”
Jade not only mentors women but also advocates for broader accessibility in carpentry. She breaks down complex tasks into simple steps and challenges the industry’s harsh ‘rite of passage’ culture. Having overcome personal hurdles like living with epilepsy, she wants to ease the path for others.
“Being restricted by epilepsy hasn’t stopped me from living my life. I’m here now, teaching carpentry, and it feels incredible. I want to show others that with the right guidance and support, anyone can excel in this trade, regardless of gender or personal challenges,” Jade said.
Ultimately, she takes pride in seeing her students grow and succeed, “I enjoy teaching and seeing others’ capabilities grow. Even complex tasks like building a wall frame can be broken down into simple steps. Once you show someone the components, tools, and method, they can do anything. That’s why I love teaching carpentry.”
Australian Trade Training College RTO Operations Manager Ben Oliver praised Jade’s contributions, saying, “Jade’s dedication and passion for inclusivity are truly inspiring. She’s not just teaching skills; she’s changing mindsets and opening doors for future generations of tradeswomen.”
In addition to her work at ATTC, Jade is a member of the rural fire service and is looking at moving into the communications role within the control unit emergency response team.
*Australian Trade Training College is part of the IntoWork Group.
