A Highlands tradie has received recognition at the building industry's night of nights.
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August Developments second year apprentice carpenter Jessica Gardiner won the Women in Construction award at the Master Builders Association's (MBA) Southern Regions Building Awards on Saturday night.
The annual awards recognised tradespeople from across the Southern Highlands, Illawarra, South Coast, Far South Coast and Snowy Mountains.
Jessica said she was "surprised" when the judges announced her as the winner.
"I had to go up and make a speech. I thanked the Master Builders Association, my boss for the education he's given me and the boys [co-workers] who've supported me," she said.
"I'm very proud of what I do, it's very rewarding."
As the only female carpenter in the Highlands, Jessica said the work came with its challenges in the beginning.
"There's one handywoman but I'm the only female carpenter. The only other girls in the industry are the office ladies," she said.
"When I first started I had a few problems with a particular person, but my boss was very helpful.
"The majority of people have been amazing and so helpful. They treat me equally and I don't get any special praises for being female."
The 21-year-old carpenter was nominated by her boss and August Developments managing director Joe Proud.
"I was really proud of her and very happy for her," Mr Proud said.
"Her journey hasn't been easy, she's had to deal with a lot of stuff but she's dealt with it with integrity. She's still here and giving it a red hot go."
Mr Proud encouraged other local businesses to give prospective female apprentices a chance.
"That cardboard cut-out of the stereotypical tradesman is changing. You've got to be able to embrace change and accept the industry is changing," he said.
"It's like anything in business, you've got to be prepared to think about opportunities. When my clients come to site, they love seeing a woman because they see it as a point of difference.
"In terms of running a business it can separate you from a competitor."
The Southern Regions Building Awards is the region's premier industry night of nights.
The aim of the event is to showcase craftsmanship, expertise and excellence while contributing to the regional building industry.
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The awards highlight an array of creations in both the commercial and residential sectors by the best builders in the region.