Jessica Bichsel had never considered following in her father’s footsteps in construction –until a career in tourism was disrupted by the global pandemic.
After moving back to the family home, Jessica soon found herself working directly alongside her father – digging holes and jackhammering sandstone for a backyard landscaping project. “I have never looked back,” said Jessica.
“It gave me a completely new perspective on life, as well as confidence, and a sense of accomplishment that I had never imagined possible.”
Five years on, she’s a qualified carpenter – having completed a Certificate III in Carpentry and finding a niche constructing sets for theatre, film and television.
“Being in the construction industry has taught me a new type of intelligence, opened up new opportunities, and engaged me with a community of like-minded individuals,” said Jessica.
“I want women to know that wearing hi-vis and a tool belt does not mean giving up who they are, or what they aspire to be. “We are whatever version of ourselves we want to be, and I want to show women in construction that they can achieve anything they set their minds to.”
Jessica is now an Ambassador for Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC), a co-host of the podcast ‘Let’s Talk Tradies’, and next month, will compete for Apprentice of the Year at the Queensland Training Awards State Final.
“I hope that as I continue to grow my media platforms, and as I continue to inspire young women, women entering the trade, I can assist them with knowledge and guidance from professionals that can assist them to succeed,” said Jessica.
Find out more about National Skills Week 2025.
Explore your construction career options.
Learn more about Queensland Training Awards.
Last updated 14 August 2025
