AMBER Strauss doesn’t hold back when describing her school days – she hated them.
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There was no one particular part she loathed more than the rest, school learning just wasn’t her style, so she decided to look further afield.
Fast forward to now and the 17-year-old, who is originally from Albury, is fast realising her dreams.
She has picked up an electrical apprenticeship with Essential Energy and moved to Leeton on her own to tackle the many challenges that come with entering “the real world”.
We are progressing. It’s 2018. People are behind us.
- Amber Strauss
Amber admits becoming an electrician isn’t the path every young women decides to take, but it was the one which suited her.
The best part? She’s not being treated any different because of her gender.
“Everyone has been really good … they know I’m here to learn and they want to teach me, so it’s great,” the aspiring sparkie said.
“I think (other young women) should understand this can be a real career path for us.
“Even though I guess it’s a ‘non-traditional’ job for us women, there are options like this for us.
“We are progressing. It’s 2018. People are behind us.”
Research from the University of NSW has shown the number of women in trades should be increased. The university believes this would translate to a boost in gross domestic product and the overall economy.
Amber said all career paths were valid for young women living and working in modern society.
“You’ve got nothing to lose … just give it a crack,” she said.
“I’ve only just started and I’m loving it. It’s something I want to do as a career for sure.”