Lead Her Member Highlight

Lead Her Member

Carly Shillam

State Manager - Apprenticeship Support Australia

Carly is a purpose-driven leader with over 10 years’ experience in Vocational Education & Training, apprenticeships, and traineeships. As State Manager, she leads teams, drives industry and stakeholder engagement, and builds capable, values-driven teams that deliver meaningful outcomes. Motivated by purpose, continuous improvement, and seeing others grow, Carly is passionate about supporting women’s leadership, mentoring, and creating pathways for future female leaders.

Open to Mentoring
Industry/area of expertise:
Vocational Education & Training, Apprenticeships & Traineeships

Years of experience:
More than 10 years

Three words to describe you:
Purpose driven, collaborative, resilient

Career journey snapshot:
My career has been shaped by a strong connection to industry through the
vocational education and training sector and a deep belief in the power of meaningful work. I progressed through operational and leadership roles by staying curious, saying yes to opportunities that stretched me, and learning from both challenges and mentors along the way. Over time, I developed a passion for leading people and building capable, values-driven teams, which ultimately led me into my current leadership role supporting apprentices, employers, and stakeholders across Western Australia.

Proudest professional achievement:
My proudest achievement is building and leading teams that deliver real impact — creating environments where people feel supported, trusted, and empowered to do their best work, while also achieving strong outcomes for industry and the community we serve.

Key skills & strengths:
Strategic and people-centered leadership, stakeholder and industry engagement, team development and coaching, operational governance and accountability, clear communication and relationship building

What motivates you in your career?
I am motivated by work that has purpose. Seeing individuals grow in confidence, capability, and opportunity, whether that’s a team member, apprentice, or business, is what drives me. I’m also motivated by continuous improvement and the opportunity to influence positive change at a system and community level.

What being a Lead Her member means to you:
Being a Lead Her Member means being part of a community that champions women’s leadership, shared learning, and collective impact. It’s about lifting others as we rise, learning from diverse experiences, and using our influence to create pathways for future female leaders.

Advice you’d give to women entering the industry:
Back yourself, even before you feel “ready.” Seek out mentors, build strong networks, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or put your hand up for opportunities. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about learning, listening, and having the courage to grow.