Best of the West: Apprentice carpenter’s dream job helps build the west

Kaitlyn Doan has taken a love of woodwork in high school and turned it into a valuable way to assist her Western Sydney community - by helping to redevelop Westmead Hospital.

Kaitlyn Doan doesn’t have to travel far for her dream job.

Western Sydney-born and raised, the first-year apprentice carpenter’s commute these days consists of a 20-minute drive from her Chester Hill home to the gargantuan Westmead Hospital redevelopment.

“My first few days I got lost in the building, it’s that massive,” the 18-year-old told The Daily Telegraph.

A love for woodwork when she was a student at Prairiewood High School saw her channel her passion into a Certificate II in construction pathways at TAFE NSW’s Miller Campus, balancing the extra study with her HSC.

Kaitlyn Doan, who is working on the $1b Westmead hospital redevelopment. Picture: Adam Yip

“I always saw myself doing something hands-on,” she said.

“I could never see myself doing an office job nine to five.”

Set to be the largest hospital redevelopment project in the state’s history, Kaitlyn, under the guidance of builder Multiplex, said working in her own backyard added an extra special layer to the job.

“Working on something that’ll benefit Western Sydney makes the long hours and hard work all worth it,” she said.

Kaitlyn said while entering a male-dominated industry was daunting, she is lucky to have a friendly and welcoming workplace.

Kaitlyn Doan says more women should join the cunstruction industry. Picture: Adam Yip

“I’d encourage more females to join (the industry). There’s only three of us here — don’t be afraid, there’s always going to be people to help you out.”

Sharon Kerr, TAFE NSW Head of Infrastructure, Energy and Construction Skills Team, said now is the perfect time for young people in Western Sydney to consider taking on a trade apprenticeship.

“Given the influx of infrastructure projects in Western Sydney, there are terrific job opportunities available for local apprentices. And by having a trade, you will always have an income.”

Originally published as Best of the West: Apprentice carpenter’s dream job helps build the west