A unique workshop practices program has female office staff from Charles Darwin University temporarily trading their keyboards and computers for tape measures and power tools.
The workshop practices unit, a part of the University’s Vocational Education and Training range of courses, runs on Wednesday afternoons and involves the women taking on fabrication projects in a workshop.
Program coordinator and refrigeration lecturer, Michael Kastellorizios said the program gave the women the opportunity to get out of their comfort zones and do something they’ve always wanted to have a go at.
“Our current project involves constructing a piece of equipment of use to all Territorians, an esky!” he said.
“It’s unreal to see these ladies come out of their offices, don a pair of overalls and get right down to it.
“I give them an overview of what we’re doing and how we’re doing it, but apart from that every part in the fabricating process is done solely by them.”
Mr Kastellorizios said the workshop idea grew out of the apprenticeships program.
Survey and analysis officer with CDU’s Academic Quality, Planning and VET department, Rhianna Harker said that working in a team towards a physical end product was a great feeling.
“The program fosters teamwork and group interaction in a workshop environment, and the best part is we’re involved from the beginning right through to the finished product,” she said.
For information on CDU’s workshop practices program, contact Michael Kastellorizios on 8949 6480.