Apto PPE Launch
Apto PPE is a new entrant into the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) wear marketplace. We produce fit for purpose women’s work wear that is safe, comfortable and stylish. Our workwear range can be worn from the boardroom to site with confidence.
We produce fit for purpose PPE clothing for women only, including a maternity range. Clothing that is purpose designed for safety, comfort and practicality, to wear on the job in industries including construction, engineering, factory work and mining.
Co-founded by Michelle Shi-Verdaasdonk, Laurice Temple and myself representing R2A’s interest, the journey for Apto has been an exciting and interesting experience so far.
Fit for purpose women’s workwear was an initiative developed by Engineers Australia’s Women in Engineering National Committee after identifying a gap in the industry. Michelle and I were part of the core team in establishing and executing the initial stages. In 2010, a working group was set up to develop prototype garments which were showcased at the gala dinner during the 15th International Conference of Women Engineers and Scientists (ICWES15) in Adelaide in July 2010. Following an overwhelming response the committee joined with John Holland to complete a pilot.
With permission and the good wishes of Women in Engineering, Apto PPE was founded and officially launched on International Women’s Day 2012 to take this initiative to its full potential and fill the gap in industry.
During 2012 we worked in partnership with our Australian designer Linh Thai from the Designer’s Assistant to develop three shirts and two pant styles as part of our Signature and Maternity ranges. These were then tested on site and refined to ensure optimum safety, comfort and style.
Two babies (two mother’s) and a successful battle with breast cancer later, we are excited and proud to launch our Signature and Maternity women’s work wear range on Wednesday 5th March as part of International Women’s Day celebrations.
If you are interested in attending our launch or would like further information about Apto, please email me.