Anita Varga - NAWIC Excellence Awards Spotlight #5

After our annual excellence awards in May 2021, we asked all of our award winners if they would like to share more of their story, to inspire and encourage others in their own journeys, and to perhaps enter the 2022 awards. A few were keen to do so. One of the ones shared was from;

Anita Varga
Regional Manager
Fulton Hogan

Winner of the Helen Tippett award

We asked Anita to answer a few questions about her journey so far, here are her answers.

What inspired you to get into construction?

I moved back from Australia after my OE and applied for a job with Fulton Hogan as an accountant in Tauranga. I had to drop out of this application as we decided to move to Gisborne. I was asked by the hiring Manager to let them know when I was settled and they created a role in their Gisborne Office as a Systems Administrator which was a step back from my role previously but I was interested in the company and the opportunities it could bring.

What are you most passionate about in the industry? or what drives you to be involved?

I love working in such a diversified business with the many skill sets required in our industry e.g. asphalt, pavement construction, finance, bitumen plants, quarrying, and three waters. Everyday is different, the projects we build are different, the people we deal with are different and there is always a new challenge. I love working with all the people in our business and watching them meet their aspirations whether it be taking on a management role, earning a new qualification or just the satisfaction of a good day's work.


What would you like to see for the future of women in construction?

I would like to see women as the norm! That we don't even have to think it unusual that a woman might be operating that digger, leading that sealing crew, running that regional business. When women decide to start a family I'd like to see opportunities put in place for women to come back into operations where it's not a big deal if they can't be there by 7am. That companies understand that it's their duty to think outside the square and empower our young mothers back into their previous position allowing some wiggle room. Too often young women in construction have to settle for part time administration roles because they cannot be there early enough. Most of all I want women to make sure they don't lose what makes us unique by trying to fit the male norm as our perspective is what creates a diverse environment in harmony with our male counterparts.

Words of wisdom or tips for women at the start of or considering a career in construction

Always be who you are. Don't try to conform to a male version of you. Be brave and speak up. If you are the minority in the room or on a site make sure you have a voice. Find a good mentor whether they be male or female, their wisdom may be what changes your actions, the way you see a situation or encourages you to try something new.

What is your favourite thing to do for fun?

Spending time with my girls, long walks with my dogs, eating out with my hubby.

What has winning this award meant to you?

Winning the Helen Tippett Award was a very humbling experience especially hearing about the amazing careers of the runners up. It has made me determined to continue making positive change and lit a new fire in my belly about what more I can be doing to ensure when I retire that my staff reflects the population, in both the field and management.


To read other inspiring stories please visit our news page here

To keep in touch about the awards in 2022 check our awards page here