New Zealand’s infrastructure industry wants to increase the number of women employed in trade and technical roles within the workforce.
The annual Connexis ‘Celebration of Women in Infrastructure’ lunch at Te Papa yesterday recognised a group of women from around the country and their achievements in the industry.
The event highlights a month-long initiative called ‘Girls with Hi-Vis’ encouraging women to look into the sector as a career option.
Throughout June employees at Energy, Civil Construction, Water, and Telecommunication Infrastructure companies invited their sisters, daughters, friends and cousins to experience the industry through a ‘hands on’ day.
‘Girls with Hi-Vis’ is a component of a wider initiative called Ultimit.
Connexis is the Industry Training Organisation for New Zealand’s infrastructure industry is driving the Ultimit initiative in partnership with other infrastructure organisations.
“The Infrastructure industry builds the foundation of New Zealand and is experiencing massive ongoing investment nationwide. As a result, the requirement for skilled staff is constantly growing,” says Connexis CEO Helmut Modlik.
“With women representing nearly half of the population but a minor percentage of the current Industry workforce, there is a large pool of prospective employees out there,” he says.
“The calibre of the women recognised at today’s awards bodes well not only for their future but also the industry as a whole and will undoubtedly help attract other women to embark on a career in the Infrastructure industry,” says Modlik.
The Bright Star Award went to ‘Girls with Hi-Vis’ participant Terri Taylor, who attended the Contact Energy open day at Clyde.
Judges say Taylor was actively engaged, illustrated a positive attitude and willingness to learn and ‘Gave it a Go.’
“She was very enthusiastic about learning more about the industry including reviewing her current career to work potentially in the Electricity Supply Industry,” say the judges.
The Aspiring Leader Award went to Winnie Rawiri-King from the Electricity Supply Apprentice Programme for showing leadership within her team and actively supporting Women in Infrastructure.
The judges say they were impressed with Rawiri-Kings’s commitment to Health and Safety, and leading by example.
The Inspirational Leader Award went to Suzanne Naylor from Watercare Services. The judges were particularly impressed that Suzanne was an IPENZ mentor and the vote of confidence from Watercare in promoting her to her current role. She is a team player but also not afraid to step up to the plate as a leader.
A recognition of contribution to the Ultimit initiative went to supporters Electrix and Northpower.
Both companies have been a crucial part of the Ultimit journey from day one and continue to show outstanding leadership towards increasing the representation of Women in non-traditional roles.
