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Grease, grit and proving them wrong!
Breaking away from traditional career paths, husband and wife duo Jesse and Erin Bickford are rewriting the narrative —he’s a registered nurse, while she’s a mechanic, proving stereotypes have no place at their dinner table.
"He gets it. He knows what it’s like to be in a career where people don’t expect to see you. Having that support means everything,” said Erin.
"Proud is an understatement for how I feel about Erin. The commitment, hustle and passion she has for learning and growing within the industry is inspiring to say the least. She is a role model for me and I'm sure many others,” said Jesse.
At just 25, Erin has carved out an impressive career in the automotive industry. From a determined teenager applying for over 70 apprenticeships to a fully qualified light vehicle mechanic and now upskilling in heavy diesel.
"A lot of people told me I wouldn’t last two weeks in heavy diesel—I hope they weren’t holding their breath," she said.
Erin’s love for mechanics wasn’t inherited—she built it from the ground up. At 16 she completed a pre-vocational course in Automotive Technology while still in High School, and at 18 she relentlessly applied for apprenticeships until she landed one on the Gold Coast.
Five years later, she was a qualified light vehicle mechanic—but the challenge wasn’t enough. She set her sights on upskilling with a Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR31120) at TAFE Queensland’s Ashmore campus.
“One of my proudest moments was choosing to upskill and proving my doubters wrong,” said Erin.
"TAFE Queensland has been a game-changer for me. The support and expertise from the teachers at the Ashmore campus have been incredible—they truly invest in your success.”
“I’ve never felt more empowered in my career, and I know the skills I’ve gained at TAFE Queensland are a huge part of why I’m able to excel in a field that’s still often dominated by men," she said.
Working in a male-dominated trade isn’t without its hurdles. Erin faces scepticism and physical challenges, but rather than letting them deter her, she uses them as fuel.
"You really have to be sure of yourself and know you deserve to be there as much as anybody else swinging spanners for a living," said Erin.
Recognising the physical demands of her trade, she dedicates herself to health and fitness, hitting the gym before her shifts.
"The stronger you are, the easier a 12-hour day of back-breaking work becomes," she said.
Despite the progress in workplace diversity, Erin believes the focus should always be on skill over gender.
"The right person should get the job, no matter who they are. Any challenges I’ve faced have only taught me valuable lessons."
Her advice to women considering a trade career?
"Do it if you’re passionate. Some days will test every ounce of your motivation and discipline, but if you love what you do, it’s worth it."