A finalist for the WA Apprentice of the Year 2025, Jessica Garnett is a mechanical technician at Jadestone Energy who has built a career by taking things apart, putting them back together and proving there’s no single way to be a tradie.
The Certificate III Mechanical Engineering Fitter graduate is not only recognised for wearing her hot pink Crocs outside of work, but also for her unwavering determination to forge her own path in a male-dominated field. Drawn to mechanical fitting after a pre-apprenticeship, Jessica discovered she loved the challenge – working with big machineries, solving complex puzzles and the satisfaction of keeping an entire facility running. Since completing her apprenticeship with Programmed, she has worked on everything from Rolls-Royce turbines to full engine rebuilds across major offshore sites.
We recently caught up with Jessica – who, outside of work, also champions other women to pursue a trade career and join the workforce – to talk about growth, challenges and career advancement.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Can you tell us more about your role?
Mechanical fitting is pretty much maintaining and installing all mechanical equipment on the oil and gas facility. We work on Rolls-Royce turbines, cranes and fire pumps all the way down to fixing kitchen sinks. It’s a very diverse trade that involves working with a lot of different equipment. We pull apart, rebuild, install, maintain and decommission equipment. We also have to diagnose issues with equipment before or after they fail so we can fix them and keep the plant running. It’s very hands-on and physical work, which most of the time means the jobs are relatively large spanning over multiple shifts.
How long have you been training with the company?
I completed my four-year apprenticeship with Programmed in February 2025.
What made you decide to pursue an apprenticeship?
I didn’t know what I wanted to do after school, but I knew I wanted a career that required hands-on learning and skills. I was lucky enough to be offered a pre-apprenticeship in heavy metal fabrication with BAE Systems, where I was able to try out multiple trades. I fell in love with mechanical fitting, and I haven’t looked back.
What new skills have you built since becoming an apprentice, both technical and non-technical?
The biggest thing I’ve learned is confidence – trusting myself and speaking up when I don’t know something. Working in a male-dominated field can be intimidating, but with support from co-workers and coordinators, I’ve built confidence in my abilities and found my voice. During my apprenticeship, I often felt like I knew the least, but now, working independently, I’ve realised how much I’ve learned – a true credit to my trainers and tradies.
How have you been supported throughout your apprenticeship journey? Eg. mentoring, training and development.
Programmed supported me whenever I needed help, especially my coordinator Meg. Both Jadestone and Woodside ensured I worked alongside senior mechanics for mentoring. I felt fully supported throughout my apprenticeship, with training always prioritised. I’m grateful for that and proud to be a well-rounded tradie.
Favourite project/task you’ve worked on during your apprenticeship?
There has been a lot! I’ve been lucky to work on many projects! Some of my favourites include a full engine rebuild on Stag with the Westrac team, where we rebuilt a CAT 3606 engine. On North Rankin, I helped with a turbine engine swap of the RB211 and removed the power turbine – something I’d never seen before. On Montara, during my first offshore swing, I jumped straight into a turbine engine swap of a Solar Mars100, which was an incredible experience. I’ve been fortunate to be part of so many major projects and hope to join many more.
One challenge that you’ve overcome? And how did you overcome that?
The hardest challenge I’ve faced – and still face – is being treated as a daughter rather than a peer. At first, I thought it was good because I felt looked after, but it became an issue when tradies wouldn’t let me do tasks to avoid seeing me struggle. Not being able to solve problems on my own hurt my confidence. I spoke to my peers, and most understood, but it’s still something I’m working through. It’s disheartening to see male apprentices treated differently, so speaking up is important because most don’t realise they’re doing it.
One thing we can’t guess from your job title?
Hmmm, I think if you see my job title, you might not imagine that I wear hot pink Crocs and love to knit! I love my job as a mechanical fitter and appreciate that, while it’s considered a ‘masculine’ role, I can still be myself and embrace my femininity. When I started in the trade, I thought I had to act like the boys to earn respect and fit in, but I’ve learned it’s better to be yourself. If you want to be a mechanic who wears hot pink shoes and headbands while working on diesel engines, that’s pretty epic.
What advice would you give someone starting an apprenticeship working in a male-dominated field?
Don’t be afraid to speak your mind – the guys do, and they won’t be offended. Back yourself; confidence matters. Trust your gut and ask when you don’t know – better to ask than risk injury. It’s a learning curve, so don’t hesitate to seek help. Physical strength isn’t everything; I often get called for jobs because I can reach tight spaces others can’t. Build a network of female tradies – it’s a lifesaver. And don’t settle; if a site isn’t treating you right, move on. Plenty of companies would value you – never tolerate sexism or bullying.
Your plan after completing the apprenticeship?
I was fortunate to be taken on by Woodside as a Mechanical Technician on the North Rankin complex. My current goal is simple: to develop into a skilled mechanical fitter. I want to become someone people turn to for mechanical advice, so I’m focused on building my knowledge and skills. In the future, I’d love to have my own apprentices – hopefully a girl. I never had a female mentor, and I’ve never worked with another female mechanical fitter, so it’s definitely my goal to be that person for someone.
What kinds of training support have been most helpful for you?
I think my high school vocational training coordinator was a massive part of why I’m here. I think having both technical training support from TAFE lectures is extremely important but also having that emotional support from my programmed training coordinators is majorly important.
How do you think more women can be encouraged to join male-dominated industries?
Offering female-only TAFE courses is vital, as they give women a chance to learn without pressure. We should also promote trades in schools by having female tradies speak to girls and answer questions. A strong support network where women can seek advice is essential. Starting with school-aged girls is key – early interest helps them develop into skilled tradespeople. Support and encouragement make all the difference.
