CCF SA COMMITTEES
Women in Civil Construction on Darlington Upgrade I’m currently working on the Darlington Upgrade Project for Gateway South, and have worked with, and am still working alongside, some very talented women.
Within civil and construction, there are so many entry points for women. Some have trained to be here and some have learnt on the job. Many get specific training for their roles.
I spoke with some of them to get their impressions on how things have evolved over the years and how they feel about working in the industry.
Winnie – In my second year of university, I started a cadetship. I really enjoy spending time in the field talking to the experts while they work, preferring to learn on the job through hearing their stories and experiences.
Of the ladies spoken to, our times in the industry varied from 1 year to 27 years. They all indicated that they weren’t going anywhere, and were happy to continue their careers within the civil and construction industry. Some decided to start working in civil and construction because they had family working in the industry; some wanted a change from what they were doing; and some were following a passion for the environment, mathematics, science and the broader community. As with anyone, male or female, their reasons for beginning their careers in the industry were varied. Anneka – I love being outdoors.
Anneka – For labouring, the education you receive is out in the field doing the job.
Tahlia – I’ve done short courses in mechanics, a Certificate II in civil construction, and am ticketed or have gained VOC to operate rollers, skid steers, EWPs and excavators. Kacie – To work with cranes, I had to have my industry white card and dogger’s ticket as a minimum. From there I gained my basic rigger’s ticket, HR licence, CN (non-slew crane) and C6 (60T slew crane) tickets. Michelle – I completed my degree at the University of SA… I even had the opportunity to go overseas to train students (in New Zealand) and undertake training in Germany.
Winnie – I have always wanted to have a positive impact on the community and a career that includes travel.
Michelle – It’s a good mix of working outdoors and in the office.
Winnie Robertson – Project Engineer with Laing O’Rourke 9 years in civil/construction.
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Anneka – Hully have been amazing to work for. They give me every opportunity to learn and upskill. Learning to operate a roller and tele-handler with ease has been positive for me.
Tahlia – The support network at work and the relationships with almost all of my colleagues is amazing. They will always help if they see me struggling, and share knowledge or give advice on new subjects.
Kacie – I was looking for a change of scenery and a new challenge.
3½ years in civil.
Passionate, tenacious and enthusiastic, they have attention to detail, lots of energy, plus great analytical and problem solving skills. They are friendly, helpful, empathetic, persistent, safety-conscious, aware of cleanliness, productive, have a can-do attitude as well as good communication skills. These are many of the skills and qualities that the ladies felt they could bring to their workplace.
Winnie – I’ve crossed paths with some inspirational women, through all sorts of networks and have had some great mentors as a result.
Tahlia – I wanted to reflect on my work at the end of the day and have something to look back on to say “I did that”.
Anneka Schwarz – Trade Assistant/Plant Operator with Hully.
A common element seems to be keeping these women in the industry. The support networks they have, be it from their employer or workmates, provide great support, encouragement and opportunities. I believe the reason that the support is given is because these are extraordinary ladies. Every one of the supervisors of Tahlia, Anneka, Kacie and Winnie I have spoken to, had a huge amount of praise for them. I was told and have witnessed for myself how these ladies go the extra mile. They all work extremely hard and put in everything they can to make the project better.
Kacie – I’ve worked with people from all walks of life, with absolute hearts of gold. My current employer (Fleurieu Cranes) is the best I have ever worked for. I have been given the chance to learn and develop my skills. Michelle – My employer provides training and treats me as an equal. I am not judged by my gender but for my role.
