A function was held on Friday night in Hobart to celebrate the establishment of the new body, which marks the separation of Tasmania from the joint Victorian/Tasmanian branch that had existed previously.

Business development manager for Brickworks, Beck Lauer, has been working in the construction industry for seven years and was involved in setting up the state branch.

She became associated with NAWIC after she met Victoria/Tasmania president Rebecca Dickson at an International Women’s Day lunch.

The Hobart resident said the latest development was another positive step forward in changing perceptions of women in the industry.

“We really want to alter the way young women think about coming into the industry,” she said.

“There are no obvious obstacles for women who want to pursue this career, but there always seems to be little reminders that it is not natural for women to be around the tools.

“It’s more like death by 1000 paper cuts.”

Formed in 1995, NAWIC is a non-for-profit organisation that aims for the advancement of women within the construction industry.

Members have the opportunity to expand their professional networks, while also improving their own skills and knowledge.

In a report published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics in February of last year, construction has the highest representation of men in any industry with 88.3 percent.

Despite being outnumbered, Mrs Lauer said there are signs that the industry is moving in the right direction, if not at the desired pace.

“In the time I have been in the industry, I have seen a slow increase in the number of women taking up positions, and NAWIC could help to fast track the path we are on.

“There are expected to be about 3000 more construction jobs created in the next decade, and right now, the uptake isn’t strong enough amongst female workers,” she said.

“Initiatives such as mentoring programs could contribute to positive change.

“It’s something the state needs to embrace.”