The 19-year-old this year became the first female electrician apprentice to work at Laser Electrical in Bendigo.

She said helping on electrical jobs with her father from an early age developed her interest in the industry.

“I was basically doing an apprenticeship for 19 years,” she said.

“Working at home, dad and I would always be working with different electrical jobs.”

With more than 1000 apprentices and trainees starting work in Bendigo this year, Mel is one of just four women going into a trade.

Last December she volunteered to do some work experience at Laser and is now is an apprentice in a job she loves.

“It’s something I really enjoy, you’re always learning something, you never get bored.”

Her boss, managing director of Laser Electrical Gary Frank, said she had already shown a great passion for the work.

“From the day she started she’s shown a huge work ethic,” he said.

“Already in the first two months we’ve tested her working in a few different environments and we can tell she’s going to be fine.

“She’s one of the best workers we’ve had. She listens, she asks questions, and she’s really fitted in well.”

Mel and fellow apprentice Nathan Perks, who started work yesterday, said their apprenticeship program would be challenging but rewarding.

Peter Trewhella, the area manager for apprentice placing service MEGT, said Mel was well suited to her apprenticeship.

“I’m sure it will be testing, but she’s a very impressive worker and very motivated,” Mr Trewhella said.

“We’re hoping she can come and talk at school presentations for us and inspire more young girls to be involved in a trade.”