Penny Petridis founded FEMALE TRADIE in 2010, as she was tired of having to explain her gender alongside her accreditations when she knocked on clientele’s door, to build their carpentry project.

Through mostly word of mouth and the number on her van, she gained the trust of Sydney’s Inner West, where FEMALE TRADIE quickly became a household name.

She completed numerous high quality residential and commercial renovations, with very happy returning clientele. Gender aside, it was her attention to detail that set her apart.

With 30 years on tools, experience and certifications that not many could match FEMALE TRADIE became not only a reliable trusted business, but a leader in the industry, paving the way for other women in construction. She became the go-to for women wanting to get into the trade.

Penny began teaching girls studying construction certification in school, but she knew that especially with the massive surge in the DIY enthusiast, there was more to do.

Through her passion for teaching, in 2019 the FEMALE TRADIE business expanded into get handy workshops, empowering women to complete projects that they never thought possible. Basic tools, carpentry and tiling workshops were launched in Sydney.

In 2022, Penny moved to the Northern Rivers of NSW to support the area from catastrophic floods; and it’s here that she’s been able to combine her love for community work, DIY workshops, and teaching trade skills in a region where they’re most needed.

Her vision is to offer mentoring and coaching, specifically for women; so that they can be supported to work through complex challenges, gaining clarity and confidence to create their dream future.

Just like the wheel of life, FEMALE TRADIE has evolved to be more than just a building renovation company. Consultancy, training, and coaching has become her core business.