Episode 3: Kerry Neil

Kerry started her career as a Marine Biologist working in the ports and shipping industry. Today she is GHD’s General Manager for South Australia and the NAWIC National Award winner for 2022.

Kerry discusses how it’s not easy to get into construction and students don’t often get to see the rewarding opportunities available to them when they are in that ‘dating game’ exploring career options.

Busting common myths Kerry dives into the subject of menstruation and childbearing: this does not denigrate women’s capability to do their jobs. Physical ability needs to go into the back-room Kerry shares. People are now being seen for their technical capability and working with their heads. Kerry urges “Don’t discriminate our opportunity, instead let’s have a conversation and fix the environment”. Similarly, Kerry says don’t mistake ‘heat in a conversation’ for a hormonal issue, rather let’s consider why someone is passionate.

Her observations of the construction industry over her career span from male dominance, conflict and isolation, and the shift to environments to improved work practices and people being seen for the capabilities they bring. There is work to be done; from improving mentoring and intentional action through having role models to observe. Sharing stories is important to help create a new generation of people in industry.

Kerry’s pledge is to bring her voice, to open up the conversation, and to share her journey so people can see what’s possible.

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