This year’s National Skills Week (25 August – 31st August 2025), asks career seekers to ‘Explore all the Options’, which is exactly what Katelyn did while completing her high school education, undertaking an apprenticeship as a light vehicle mechanic.
When Katelyn enrolled at The BUSY School’s Salisbury campus, she found more than just a classroom, she found a fresh start. After struggling in previous school environments, The BUSY School offered her tailored learning, consistent support, and a safe space to thrive. With renewed confidence, Katelyn graduated in 2024 with her Queensland Certificate of Education, (QCE) and was proudly named the recipient of the Apprenticeship/Traineeship Award.
Katelyn’s story represents more than individual success, it highlights the holistic approach of The BUSY Group, where our programs are designed to support young people at every stage of their journey. From early intervention through The BUSY School, to structured mentoring and retention support through the BUSY Sisters Women in Trades mentoringprogram, our wraparound services ensure no one is left behind.
With a passion for cars and hands-on work, Katelyn secured an apprenticeship as a first-year light vehicle mechanic in Southeast Queensland. Through the BUSY Sisters Women in Automotive program, delivered in partnership with the Department of Trade, Employment and Training (DTET) and the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTAQ), she’s now receiving specialised mentoring designed to support women in male-dominated trades.
Her mentor, Kat, a qualified tradeswoman with a background in heavy diesel, has provided proactive, industry-informed guidance from day one. This early-stage support is crucial, not only in helping apprentices like Katelyn adjust and succeed, but in retaining women in the trade workforce long-term.
It’s this strong focus on retention that creates real industry change. By supporting one individual, we spark a domino effect, building confidence, creating positive environments, and showing other women that this is a space where they too can belong and succeed. The more visible, supported women we have in sustainable trade careers, the more the industry grows with genuine inclusion.
From buying her first toolbox to paving a pathway in a field she loves, Katelyn is proof that with the right support and mentoring, anything is possible.
We couldn’t do this without the backing of our incredible partners. A heartfelt thank you to DTET and MTAQ, your continued support of the BUSY Sisters Women in Automotive program is helping us create unbounded possibilities for the next generation of women in trades.
Learn more about mentoring support for Women in Male Dominated Trades.