Broadmeadows campus director, Melissa Tinetti, has received the Champions Award at the 2025 Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT) Gala, recognising her leadership in advancing diversity in trades.
The award celebrates Melissa’s commitment to creating space, opportunity, and visibility for women in traditionally male-dominated industries.
From hands-on experiences for female welders to advocacy for empowerment through skills, Melissa has led the charge in building inclusive pathways for women to thrive in trades.
“Being recognised by an organisation whose mission resonates so deeply with me is truly special”, Melissa said.
“It is incredible to be awarded and recognised for simply doing my job.”
Melissa brings a background as both an architect and educator to her role as campus director at Kangan Institute. The award win celebrates her long-standing commitment to supporting women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
“Throughout my whole career I have prioritised fostering a culture of inclusivity. To be able to further this goal in collaboration with EWIT has been incredibly rewarding.”
Melissa played a key role in creating a hands-on opportunity for women to learn about welding, in partnership with EWIT and the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU).
The event welcomed 17 women to Kangan Institute to explore welding in a supportive environment, offering a glimpse into a career in trades and helping break down barriers to entry.
Melissa has also championed Kangan Institute’s inclusive programs and pathways for women and gender-diverse learners within the industry.
The EWIT Champion Award recognises individuals who embody the spirit of Empowered Women in Trades. Chosen by the EWIT team, it celebrates those who demonstrate impact, authenticity and action in driving real change for humans in trades.
Her endeavours respond to a pressing need as construction remains one of the least gender diverse industries in Australia. Women make up just 14% of workers in civil construction and 2% for onsite roles, figures that have remained stagnant for a decade.
Melissa’s efforts echo Kangan Institute’s commitment to gender equality and inclusion, guided by its Gender Equality Action Plan and the Respect and Equality in TAFE (RET) framework.
As a proud EWIT alliance member and partner in the Australian Government’s Building Women’s Career Program, Kangan Institute works alongside likeminded organisations to increase gender diversity and inclusion across the sector.
Quote attributable to Michelle Johnston – Acting CEO of Kangan Institute:
“Melissa’s recognition is a proud moment for Kangan Institute. Her leadership at Broadmeadows and in the trades sector has helped pave the way for women to thrive in skilled trades through hands-on learning and advocacy.
We remain deeply committed to building inclusive pathways and championing diversity across the industry.”
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