Changemaker: How Ella’s shaping a greener, more inclusive carpentry industry

When Ella McFarlane first picked up a hammer in high school woodwork, she never imagined it would lead her across the world to Berlin and into a career shaping the construction of more sustainable homes. 

Today, she’s a qualified carpenter and advocate for women in trades, using her skills and experience to help build a better future for both people and the planet. 

Discovering a career she wasn’t shown 

Growing up as a young woman in regional Victoria, construction wasn’t presented as a realistic option. 

‘Being a young girl in high school, especially living in a regional city, it wasn't offered to us - that it was even an option to complete a trade or do any role in the construction industry really.’ 

What was offered was woodwork. Ella loved the hands-on nature of the subject and the satisfaction of creating something tangible.  

A supportive teacher encouraged her to take Construction Pathways in Years 11 and 12 and complete work placement with a builder.

‘I had a great time and really enjoyed the visual and hands-on approach to learning a new skill.’ 

That experience sparked a clear direction: carpentry. 

A learning experience grounded in job-ready skills  

Ella began her apprenticeship in Albury, NSW, before moving and completing her Certificate III in Carpentry CPC30220 at Melbourne Polytechnic. 

‘I was so surprised by how much larger Melbourne Polytechnic was and how many more resources it had.’ 

‘I really enjoyed the teachers and the breakdown of practical and theory components.’ 

The blend of workshop learning and classroom theory gave her the confidence to step onto site as a capable, well-prepared tradesperson. 

A scholarship that opened up the world 

What began as a casual glance at a campus flyer became a career and life defining moment. The flyer promoted a ‘Global Footprints Scholarship’ offering Ella the chance to travel, learn and see sustainable construction in action around the world. 

‘I immediately started researching and reading past scholars’ stories to try and get the best application together.’ 

 As a result of the successful scholarship application, Ella spent 4 weeks working in Berlin, Germany.  
 
In Berlin she explored Passivhaus principles - a sustainable building standard focused on airtightness, continuous   insulation, high performing windows and a HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) unit with a heat recovery system to dramatically cut energy use and keep the home at a consistent temperature all year round.

‘It’s fascinating to see how they just do the simple things to a really high and efficient standard. Even the precise ordering of materials and sharing tools as a workplace allowed the employees to get their own way to work which is often public transport or riding your bike – no utes required!’ 

This was followed by a volunteering home stay with an Austrian family where she helped build clay and hemp walls and a rammed earth floor for their home.  

From classroom to construction site 

Ella now works at Wilderness Building Co and is thriving as a newly qualified carpenter. 

‘I’ve been here for just about 4  months now and I’m loving it. Everyone is so passionate about building well and sustainably… I feel so supported whilst being challenged, which is everything I could ask for being newly qualified.’ 

Ella’s success is fuelled by her natural enthusiasm, sharp curiosity and strong communication skills - qualities that make her a valued team member on any site. 

‘I love to collaborate and work together with others to problem solve and deliver high quality work.’ 

Building sustainably, thinking globally 

For Ella, sustainable construction isn’t just a smarter way to build - it’s essential to safeguarding the planet for future generations. 

‘Sustainable construction is vital if we want to continue living on this planet. We need to make better choices.’ 

‘The construction industry holds a lot of power to influence the future of our environment. By consciously considering how and why we use materials, energy and land, we can reduce waste and avoid depleting the planet for short-term gain and profits.’ 

Right now, she’s focused on learning as much as she can, taking on new responsibilities and one day teaching apprentices and leading projects of her own. 

Trailblazing a path for other women to follow

Having navigated the industry herself, Ella is passionate about lifting up other women in trades. Ella looks to a more inclusive future where women working on construction sites is simply part of the landscape. 

‘I truly believe that if you can’t see it, you can’t be it, which is why representation matters so much.’ 

“We still have a long way to go before women are consistently respected and viewed as equals, but I hope that many women will continue to pursue carpentry and find it fulfilling and rewarding.” 

From a regional high school student to global learner, Ella’s story shows how learning a trade - backed by a bit of courage and an eye for opportunity- can open up the world. 
 
It also shows what’s possible for women in trades when they’re visible, supported and given real pathways to succeed.