International Women’s Day: Irene Stanley
Meet Irene: A trailblazer in the trades, breaking barriers and paving the way for the next generation.
As we celebrate incredible women for International Women’s Day, we spoke with Irene Stanley, the founder of Indigenous Women in Trades and First Class Finish. Irene's goals go beyond painting services - she's empowering women to gain trade certifications and thrive.
In partnership with Community First Development, Irene is expanding her vision to reach more trades. She invited Community First Development to collaborate in developing a website, creating a business and strategic plan, and securing funding for additional training. With the support of two dedicated volunteers, the organisation has successfully launched its website, finalised its business plan, and submitted three funding applications. Meanwhile, the organisation’s strategic plan continues to take shape, paving the way for future growth.
Q&A with Irene Stanley
Can you tell us about yourself and your journey in the trades industry?
Sure, I started my trade when I was 14 with my dad, because I needed pocket money. I realised quite quickly that I was good at it (painting), and I wanted to make more money. I was never really good academically, so I dropped out of school when I was 15 and started my apprenticeship.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I became a Sole Trader in my early 20’s and worked for other people, meanwhile I built strong relationships with other business and builders and took on larger projects. It wasn’t too long until I realised, I needed to start a company, and I did exactly that, in 2018.
What barriers did you face as a female in trades, and how did you overcome them?
In the mid years of my trade, I noticed the workplace culture in and around construction sites. It often felt like a boy's club where my skills, speed and quality of work were constantly challenged and under the microscope. I had to prove myself and my worth. But looking back, I am thankful for those challenging times because it made me the person (and painter) I am today.
What changes have you seen in the industry for women, and what still needs to change?
I believe we have already come a long way, well since I started my trade. I‘ve seen that the younger fellas are more inclusive and encouraging to women but sadly, I still also witness disrespect and bullying on job sites. I believe we (as women) need to stand up and talk and address the (if any) situation. And businesses need to be aware if this is happening in their workplace and address it, promptly.
How are you working to create more opportunities for First Nations women, particularly in trades?
I have recently started a Social Enterprise that helps Indigenous Women get into a trade. We hope to create a space where our women feel safe when exploring the possibilities of a trade career, through mentorship and hands on experience. Being able to have a go at it before any commitment is made and to showcase all the deadly women out there that are tradies in the industry.
The team of First Nations women on a project in Alice Springs.
What role does mentorship play in helping more women enter and succeed in trades?
Mentorship is important for everyone. Having a mentor means ongoing support from someone with experience in that field and an understanding of what you're going through. If you're just entering the industry, it can be overwhelming, so your mentor is there to walk you through it or even just to have a yarn.
How do you hope your journey inspires the next generation of First Nations women?
I hope it does inspire someone, even just one person, because we’re capable, strong women that can do anything.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young First Nations women considering this career path?
Go For It! A lot of our mob are very creative, take a hold of that creative power and use it!
What’s next for you and your business - any exciting projects or goals for the future?
There’s a lot happening at the moment, but our goal is to increase representation for our women already in trades and provide more hands-on experience with our try-a-trade programs coming soon. Which is pretty exciting.