Getting more women to become electricians, mechanics, construction managers and software engineers would help alleviate persistent skills shortages and accelerate both the development of new digital technologies and the transition to net zero.

That’s the view of Jobs and Skills Australia commissioner Barney Glover, who argues poor work cultures and stereotypical attitudes to work help explain why Australia is struggling to get the workers it needs to decarbonise its economy and reap the benefits of emerging technologies.