Celebrating women in the electrical industry

This month, the Electrical Safety Office (ESO) celebrated International Women’s Day by recognising the increase in women working in the electrical industry. ESO have proudly recruited talented female electricians from all sectors of the industry including mining, manufacturing, retail, teaching, infrastructure, and domestic and commercial contracting.

Of the 45 Electrical Safety Inspectors across Queensland, eight are female. That number shines like a beacon compared to the wider industry where only 1.5 percent of electrical worker licences are held by women.

Senior Inspector Jane Darling said that when she began her career eight years ago, she was the only female electrical safety inspector.

“In the last year and a half another seven women have joined the inspectorate ranks. I am so thrilled to be working here at such a pivotal moment of change. In a relatively short amount of time, I have found an instant camaraderie with my fellow female inspectors.

“It is crucial to continue to provide equal opportunities for women and girls to grow their skills, advance their careers, and become leaders in this field,” Senior Inspector Jane Darling said.

Recently ESO attended the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Women on Tools event at Acacia Ridge TAFE, continuing our commitment to engage with apprentices and tradespeople across Queensland.

These events, held in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Toowoomba, and Townsville, provide a valuable platform for ESO inspectors to connect with industry stakeholders and promote electrical safety.

“With around 100–200 attendees at each event, including a strong apprentice presence of 60–70%, these sessions offer an opportunity to educate future tradespeople on ESO’s role in the electrical industry.

“Over the years, ESO’s involvement has grown, with both experienced and newer female inspectors attending, alongside dedicated admin support staff and many of our male colleagues who are strong allies in the industry,” Senior Inspector Jane Darling said.

Beyond Women on Tools, ESO has also been invited to participate in NAWIC’s Speed Careering events engaging with high school students who are considering a trade career.

These initiatives help raise awareness of career pathways in the electrical industry and reinforce ESO’s presence within the sector. By actively participating in these events, ESO continues to build strong relationships with industry partners and ensure electrical safety remains a key focus for the next generation of tradespeople.