The Together We RISE program recently joined Group Training Organisations, industry leaders and partners from across Australia at the NAEN 2026 Conference: Skills in the Heart, held in Yulara, Northern Territory.
Against the iconic backdrop of Uluru, the conference explored how we can strengthen the capability of Group Training Organisations while keeping apprentices at the centre of everything we do.
One of the most powerful moments came on the final day, when three apprentices involved in the pilot Hard Hat Huddles mentoring program shared their experiences during the panel discussion, Fix the System, Not the Women.
Speaking openly and honestly, they reflected on navigating workplace cultures, safety concerns, discrimination and moments of isolation. Their stories reminded everyone in the room why Together We RISE exists and reinforced the need for system-level change across the broader GTO sector.
What stood out most, however, was the impact the program is already having.
All three apprentices spoke about increased confidence, stronger connections and greater certainty in their career choices. They described feeling less alone and more supported, highlighting the importance of creating spaces where women apprentices can connect, share experiences and learn from one another.
A message that echoed throughout the conference was that we don’t know what we don’t know.
Listening to those with lived and living experience isn’t an optional extra—it’s fundamental to creating meaningful, lasting change. Through Together We RISE, co-design and collaboration are embedded in the program, ensuring apprentice voices help shape how the initiative continues to evolve.
The strength of Together We RISE also lies in its partnerships. Each organisation brings expertise across different project pillars, but what makes the model truly effective is the shared commitment to working collectively. From research and evaluation to training, mentoring and advocacy, we’re building something grounded in evidence, informed by lived experience and designed for long-term impact.
Because if we want real, lasting change, we must go together.
As Together We RISE continues to grow, we invite others to join the journey—through partnership, participation or advocacy – as we work together to create safer, more inclusive pathways for women in trades.
Learn more or get involved.
Sammy Bowden
National Manager, Building Women’s Careers
📧 sammy.bowden@naen.com.au
📞 0447 162 655
