Becky is now working as a trade trainer after recently completing her four-year apprenticeship as a boilermaker. Keeley joined the BAE Systems Australia apprenticeship program earlier this year, through a school-based apprenticeship in fabrication.
Both have been recognised as finalists by the 2026 South Australian Training Awards for their excellence and commitment in their apprenticeships.
As women building careers in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Becky and Keeley are helping to challenge perceptions and show others what is possible.
“When I first started here it was difficult, because I didn't have a female role model to go to,” Becky says.
“One of my biggest goals is to be a role model and an ambassador for the young ladies coming through, as I struggled by myself when I started. I don't want that to happen for the younger women coming through.”BeckyTrade trainer and boilermaker
Becky has already achieved so much over her four years at with us and she hopes to do more.
Winning our coveted ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award in 2024, Becky now teaches new apprentices and supports them along their journey. She is also an ambassador across the company for women in trades and helps to encourage young women considering a rewarding career in the industry.
Keeley's journey
Keeley’s journey in Defence began the moment she attended the shipyard’s ‘Women’s Day’, showing young school students what was possible in a career in shipbuilding. She was hesitant after joining a male dominated industry whilst completing her formal studies early in Year 11.
“It was rough at the start coming in,” she says. “I didn't know how the environment was going to be—but everyone here is just amazing."
“I came in and immediately had the most amazing female role models, like Becky. I want to be that example for someone else."KeeleyApprentice Boilermaker
Keeley has her sights set on representing women in trades, following her role model Becky’s footsteps. “I want to be that example for someone else,” she adds.
Keely aspires to be a pillar at BAE Systems Australia, ensuring women remain and continue to grow in their trade roles. “I think it’s so important to be visible and positive in that space”, where women tend to be the minority in those industry environments.
“I feel proud to represent women in trades. I want to use my journey to show others especially young women that trades are not only an option, but an incredible opportunity.”
With Becky and Keeley leading by example, their stories demonstrate how apprenticeships can create rewarding careers while leading the next generation of highly skilled workers to build Australia’s defence capabilities.
Their message is simple: All women, both young and mature, should “take every opportunity” they can to find a careers in shipbuilding.
Opening apprenticeship doors for women
We welcome apprentices each year across various trade disciplines to support South Australia’s naval shipbuilding and defence manufacturing.
Women are highly encouraged to apply to excel in a career that recognises effort, provides security and is tailorable to their ongoing family commitments.
Becky and Keeley are helping breakdown outdated perceptions of women in trade and creating new narratives away from the stigma. With the right support, determination and willingness to learn, their journey shows the possibilities and success that can be achieved though our apprenticeship program.
A typical day as an apprentice
In the early morning, employees meet with their colleagues, or if they are lucky enough, their best friend which is Keeley’s reality.
The day kicks-off with the pre-start meeting where apprentices receive safety updates, learn about tasks for the day and the latest news in the shipyard. From there, no two days are the same.
Keeley explains that each day presents a new opportunity to learn, whether it’s developing a new skill, working towards a qualification, or supporting jobs across the shipyard. “Every day is something different”, she says.
She highlights that her trade demands teamwork, meaning, “you are never alone” and instead you are “working towards something together. That sense of connection and shared effort is something I really value”.
“The training I’m receiving is high quality and incredibly supportive. My trainers are patient, encouraging and genuinely want to see me succeed. Even when I struggle, I’m supported not judged and that has made a huge difference in my confidence and progress”.
Whereas Becky, who is now working as a trainer, spends her day supporting the next generation of boilermakers at our company one bay at a time. Alongside coordinating training and qualifications, she focuses on one-on-one coaching with apprentices. Becky’s role helps those who are learning overcome challenges, learn as much as possible and build confidence in their trade.
Although at different stages in their career at the company, both Becky and Keeley highlight the variety in day-to-day activities, learning opportunities and sense of community and achievement that come with a career in boiler making, creating “something from nothing”.