Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology have seen a rise in women enrolling in trades courses.

Trades and logistics faculty leader Brian Dillon says in 2014, only 10 per cent of women were enrolled in trades.

In five years, the statistic has increased to 16 per cent.

'Some areas in particular have seen much bigger increases, especially road transport.

'A recent road transport course had 50 per cent females graduate from the programme.”

Brian says there are more opportunities for women in the trades. With technology advancing, there is less emphasis on having physical size and strength.

'With a tight labour market, employers are also needing to work smarter, which has benefits for employees as well as businesses.

'I would encourage any female considering a trade to talk to us, as our trades portfolio is quite varied and there's a good chance there's an opportunity for anyone.”