The number of women working in trade positions in Queensland’s resources sector jumped by almost 40 per cent in the last financial year, now accounting for a record 13 per cent of all trade roles.

New industry data also shows nine out of 10 women employed by resources companies now work in ‘non-traditional’ roles such as engineering, environmental science, data analysis, production supervision and management positions.

The information was released in conjunction with the announcement of this year’s finalists in the annual Resources Awards for Women, hosted by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women In Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ).

This year, 18 women and three female students will compete for seven prestigious awards, with the presentation to be held on March 8 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The winners will then go on to represent Queensland at the Women in Resources National Awards in Canberra later this year.

Between them, finalists are general managers, engineers, governance experts, metallurgists, environmental advisors, trainers, production coordinators, mine technicians, workplace managers and asset innovation specialists.

WIMARQ co-chair Sally Rayner said the latest data shows Queensland’s resources sector attracts a younger demographic of female employees compared to the national figure.

38 per cent of the industry’s female employees in Queensland are aged 34 years or under, compared to 28.4 per cent in this age group nationally.

“Resources companies are also more aware of the value to their business from having an inclusive environment which is open to new and different ways to identify and solve problems,” she said.

“This year’s outstanding field of award finalists clearly demonstrates the diverse and rewarding careers available across our sector, which we hope inspires a whole new generation of women to consider the opportunities available.”