IT’S no secret women are taking over traditional male domains everywhere but even so it’s an impressive performance by Lithgow High School student Alysha Anderson. Things are ‘going weld’ for Alysha who is a star performer in a ‘women welders course’ offered by the school.
LITHGOW High School will be holding a ‘Women Welders’ course designed for women to get a hands on experience and gain practical experience in the art of welding.
“Participants will also have the chance to take home artwork made by themselves at the one day workshop that will be held on Saturday, July 7,” teacher Peter Brownlow said.
“There will be a $100 fee which will cover materials etc.
“Those keen to take on the course are asked to come along in boots, long pants, a long sleeved shirt and above all a smile.”
Helping to coordinate the course will be Lithgow High Year 10 student Alysha Anderson who has been a part of the Metals and Engineering Course for a number of years.
Coordinator Alysha’s involvement in the Women Welding Course is part of her organising, development in management and administration training.
TAFE teacher Ian Hopkins (better known as ‘Hoppy’ the Silver Haired Fox) has nothing but praise for Alysha.
“She took to welding like a professional.
“Her attitude and enthusiasm is infectious and she is very popular with her workmates and teachers.
“Alysha is our top female student from Lithgow High,” joked ‘Hoppy’ (she is the only female).
“But she has a real feel for welding and she will hopefully be able to pursue a career welding in the future.”
Each Thursday, classes from the Lithgow High attend the TAFE Metal Fab course and it has proven a real success.
“The students have really taken to welding,” ‘Hoppy’ Hopkins said.
“It gives the students who are keen to follow up the course a real purpose and they learn things that will help them in later life.
“They show a real talent and absorb the knowledge passed on by us teachers readily.”
Alysha, who is 15-years-old took up welding when she first went into high school.
“From the first time I tried it, I really enjoyed it.
“I look forward to Thursdays at the TAFE, as do all the boys who are in my class.
“The teachers are great and really go out of their way to help us.
“When I finish school, it would be great to be able to gain employment as a welder.”
As part of a partnership with TAFE Delta’s Bill Murray also attends the Thursday classes and speaks to the pupils on career paths offered through welding and also gives other helpful advice to the students.
“My boy Matthew is one of the students at the class and he, like his mates, have really taken to the scheme.”
“Dad is a good teacher, but I think I have surpassed him as a welder,” Matthew jokes.
Women interested in attending the Women Welders course can contact Peter Brownlow at the Lithgow High School on 6351 14122 … no experience is necessary.