Quick Answer
Women in STEM Day 2026 (11 February) celebrates women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. In Australian mining and heavy industry it highlights:
- Female apprentices entering trades at record rates (WesTrac, Komatsu)
- Engineers and geoscientists leading Tier 1 projects
- Diversity programs from BHP, Rio Tinto, Anglo American and South32
- Pathways from school and TAFE into high-skill mining roles
Australia's mining and heavy industry sectors have historically been male-dominated — but that narrative is changing. Today, a growing number of companies are actively championing gender diversity, supporting women's careers in STEM and providing real pathways into high-skill roles.
On Women in STEM Day 2026, we celebrate these efforts, the organisations making them happen, and the women blazing new trails across the industry.
Shifting the Workforce: Why Diversity Matters
Women remain underrepresented in mining and heavy technical trades across Australia — particularly in operational and field roles. However, recent years have seen meaningful progress in both workplace culture and recruitment strategies.
Organisations are recognising that diverse teams drive better safety outcomes, innovation, and long-term performance.
Australian Women in Mining & Resources
A WesTrac apprentice in the workshop — building skills and confidence in heavy industry. Image credit: WesTrac
WesTrac: Building Inclusive Pathways and Training Futures
Central to this transformation is WesTrac, one of Australia's leading heavy equipment and training providers supporting mining, construction and resources sectors. WesTrac is actively doing several things that align with Women in STEM goals.
Apprenticeships That Open Doors
WesTrac's apprenticeship program is a standout example of pathways into STEM-related technical careers. Apprentices earn while they learn — gaining nationally recognised trade qualifications while working with world-leading machinery and industry professionals.
WesTrac currently sits at 23% female participation in WA, with a total of 41 female apprentices. In NSW/ACT, 20 female apprentices make up 23.8% of the cohort. Their School Based Trainee program in metro Perth is 100% female, with 5 women enrolled.
This increase is not only a win for gender diversity but a real investment in the future of the industry — helping young women step confidently into roles previously seen as unconventional.
A Supportive Workplace Backed by Recognition
WesTrac is also recognised externally for its commitment to gender inclusion. It's endorsed as an employer that meets benchmarks for supporting women in the workplace — signifying strong policies, support structures, and proactive efforts to attract and retain diverse talent.
These recognitions don't just reflect positive statistics — they represent real, lived changes to workplace culture that help women feel welcomed, capable, and empowered to pursue careers in heavy industry and STEM.
WORK180 - WesTrac Profile
Women engineers collaborating on site — diverse teams drive better safety and innovation outcomes.
Beyond WesTrac: Broader Initiatives in the Mining Sector
Australia's mining industry — from large miners to regional operators — is increasingly spotlighting women's contributions and creating opportunities for all levels of experience.
Women Leading by Example
Organisations like Glencore Australia showcase trailblazing women in mining, from engineers to first female apprentices who later became technical leaders.
Glencore: Inspiring WomenIndustry Awards & Recognition
Awards such as the Women in Industry Awards celebrate women in trades, engineering, leadership and innovation across the sector.
Women in Industry AwardsCollaborative Programs
National bodies and advocacy groups coordinate mentorship and encourage employers to adopt best practices for gender equity.
AWIMARThe Power of Apprenticeships: A Pathway to STEM Careers
Apprenticeships aren't just jobs — they're launching pads into careers that combine hands-on skills with critical thinking, problem-solving and innovation. Mining and heavy industry apprentices gain:
Companies like WesTrac are proving that when organisations invest in inclusive apprenticeship programs, everyone benefits — from workers and their families, to communities and the broader Australian economy.
Looking Ahead: An Industry With Space for Everyone
On this Women in STEM Day 2026, we acknowledge how far mining and heavy industry has come — and how much further it can go. With advocacy, active recruitment, workplace reforms and success stories being shared, we're witnessing a shift where women are no longer exceptions, but essential contributors in STEM roles across the resource sector.
Australia's future in mining, heavy industry and STEM depends on diversity — and the progress we celebrate today helps ensure that future is strong, innovative, and inclusive.
Supporting Your Workforce Development
SprintSuite helps mining and heavy industry contractors manage staff, apprenticeships, compliance, and workforce planning — so your team can focus on building a diverse, capable workforce.
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