What is your current title for work?

Site Administration for Leighs Construction transitioning to Project Coordinator

When did you start in the construction industry:

2010 in Melbourne, from there on in, in trade related industries. 

When did you decide working in construction was the thing you wanted to do:

I’ve always loved the excitement and action of projects so I wanted to study Project Management.

Back then at Victoria University of Wellington, a PM degree was not available, so I ended up doing Bachelor of Commerce in Management and also doing a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies with the goal to project manage environmental projects.

Straight out of University I worked in a project role in Wellington from there I worked in Melbourne in an Engineering Consultancy and as well as project managing flooring fit outs of high-res establishments.  Did similar work in London and for lifestyle reasons, chose to return to New Zealand where I resumed my studies in Carpentry Level 3 to learn the basics on how to do some minor renovations on my home.  From there I went into Construction Management night classes and landed a role at Leighs Construction, working on the Project Maunga large hospital build initially and then transitioning into the Cancer Centre project. 

What are you most passionate about?

Creating positive change and equal opportunities.  Education is also a gift so making the most of it. 

Why did you join NAWIC?

To provide a networking/hotspot for Women in Construction in Taranaki. 

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

Seeing more females in Project Management/site management roles.  I see often females in the Construction industry choose HR / HSE roles but are not directly in the site action where all the fun is happening.

It would be great to see more females feeling comfortable enough to be there amongst it.  I would also love to see construction organizations offering more support for Mums who work also. I have three under five years and think there is some work needed here between the transition from parental leave back into the workplace. 

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

Your desired role may not exist yet so follow what you enjoy doing and you will do well at it.  It is okay to be a trailblazer and also keep your mind open to roles that you may not even consider such as studying and working in Structural or Civil Engineering. 

What is your favourite thing to do for fun:

I love all things construction, so always have a DIY project on the go.

Doing activities with my three children. Dancing. I also enjoy baking, cooking and growing organic vegetables and fruit in my well-established garden.