2025 Agenda

Event Schedule

Main Conference Day 1
Main Conference Day 2
Pre-conference Masterclass

Day/Stream

Main Conference Day 1
Main Conference Day 2
Pre-conference Masterclass

Session Type

Session Type
Opening Remarks
Keynote
Break
Panel Discussion
Partner Presentation
Case Study
Industry Spotlight
Skills Spotlight
Fireside Chat
Champagne Roundtables
Masterclass
Closing Remarks
Networking Drinks
Event Dinner

Time

Time
Morning
Midday
Afternoon
Night

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April 30, 08:30 am

Main Conference Day 1

Registration and coffee

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Main Conference Day 1

Registration and coffee

April 30, 08:30 am

April 30, 08:50 am

Opening Remarks

Main Conference Day 1

Opening remarks from the chair

Speaker Speakers

Jennifer Perkins

Director Learning and Teaching Electrical Trades
TAFE NSW

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Opening Remarks

Opening remarks from the chair

April 30, 08:50 am

Speaker Speakers

Jennifer Perkins

Director Learning and Teaching Electrical Trades
TAFE NSW

Empowering women in construction

April 30, 09:00 am

Keynote

Main Conference Day 1

From insights to action: Shaping the future of women in construction

Speaker Speakers

Cathryn Greville

Chief Executive Officer
NAWIC

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Main Conference Day 1

Keynote

From insights to action: Shaping the future of women in construction

April 30, 09:00 am

Join NAWIC CEO Cathryn Greville as we explore the current landscape of women in the construction industry and chart a course for a more inclusive future. With a focus on actionable insights, practical solutions, and the latest statistics and research, you’ll gain knowledge and tools to drive change within your own organisation and career. Hear how NAWIC’s future initiatives are set to transform the industry and be inspired to take meaningful steps toward shaping a construction sector where everyone can thrive.

Speaker Speakers

Cathryn Greville

Chief Executive Officer
NAWIC

April 30, 09:30 am

Panel Discussion

Main Conference Day 1

Panel discussion: Many paths, one destination: building a successful career

Speaker Speakers

Jessie Murray

Commercial Manager Defence and Special Projects
ADCO Constructions

Emma Baptist

Operations Manager – Victoria
Monadelphous

Nuria Florentino

Skills and Legacy Director
Torrens to Darlington Alliance

Anne Boyle

Site Supervisor
Alchemy Construct

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Panel Discussion

Panel discussion: Many paths, one destination: building a successful career

April 30, 09:30 am

What are some of the different pathways to success in construction?

How can you identify, act on, and make the most of opportunities?

What can you do if your project, role or career isn’t progressing how you want it to?

What makes an effective leader, and how can those who don’t want to lead still flourish in their careers?

Speaker Speakers

Jessie Murray

Commercial Manager Defence and Special Projects
ADCO Constructions

Emma Baptist

Operations Manager – Victoria
Monadelphous

Nuria Florentino

Skills and Legacy Director
Torrens to Darlington Alliance

Anne Boyle

Site Supervisor
Alchemy Construct

April 30, 10:20 am

Partner Presentation

Main Conference Day 1

Partner presentation

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Partner Presentation

Partner presentation

April 30, 10:20 am

April 30, 10:40 am

Break

Main Conference Day 1

Morning tea & networking

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Break

Morning tea & networking

April 30, 10:40 am

April 30, 11:10 am

Main Conference Day 1

Innovation as a catalyst for women in construction leadership

Speaker Speakers

Skye Bowie

Chief Integrity & Risk Officer and Acting Chief Building Regulator
Queensland Building and Construction Commission

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Main Conference Day 1

Innovation as a catalyst for women in construction leadership

April 30, 11:10 am

How innovation is opening doors for women in the construction industry

The role of leadership in creating inclusive workplace cultures in traditionally male-dominated industries

Actionable insights for women seeking to thrive and lead in the evolving construction sector

This session will highlight personal stories, industry insights, and practical strategies to inspire attendees to embrace innovation as a lever for change.

Speaker Speakers

Skye Bowie

Chief Integrity & Risk Officer and Acting Chief Building Regulator
Queensland Building and Construction Commission

April 30, 11:40 am

Case Study

Main Conference Day 1

Women in action case study: A roadmap to advancing gender equity and diversity on construction sites

Speaker Speakers

Katrina Rio

Acting Director Social & Sustainable Infrastructure
Major Road Projects Victoria

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Case Study

Women in action case study: A roadmap to advancing gender equity and diversity on construction sites

April 30, 11:40 am

This case study highlights a successful initiative led by MRPV to establish minimum standards for gender equity on construction sites and implement a roadmap to promote diversity across their projects. With a commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment, MRPV took proactive steps to identify key areas for improvement, set clear targets, and create an actionable plan that ensures progress in gender equity and broader diversity on-site.

Speaker Speakers

Katrina Rio

Acting Director Social & Sustainable Infrastructure
Major Road Projects Victoria

April 30, 12:00 pm

Industry Spotlight

Main Conference Day 1

Industry trend spotlight: Sustainability's role in shaping today's construction projects and tomorrow's environmental and business outcomes

Speaker Speakers

Rachael Lee

Senior Manager, Environment and Sustainability
Clough

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Industry Spotlight

Industry trend spotlight: Sustainability's role in shaping today's construction projects and tomorrow's environmental and business outcomes

April 30, 12:00 pm

Exploring key sustainability trends such as green building practices, ESG standards, renewables and energy-efficient technologies transforming the industry

Examining how sustainable construction is reshaping project planning, materials sourcing, and environmental responsibility

Highlighting new opportunities in leadership, project management, and specialised roles driven by the industry's sustainability shift

Speaker Speakers

Rachael Lee

Senior Manager, Environment and Sustainability
Clough

April 30, 12:30 pm

Break

Main Conference Day 1

Networking lunch

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Break

Networking lunch

April 30, 12:30 pm

Creating the career you want

April 30, 13:30 pm

Panel Discussion

Main Conference Day 1

Panel discussion: Insights from the ground – revelations & guidance from women in trade and site roles

Moderator

Liz Holzschuster

HSEQ Manager
Newpol Construction

Speaker Speakers

Kayla Collins

Senior Supervisor
Laing O'Rourke

Kate Leone

Communications Engineer
UGL

Beck Ricardo

Senior Site Supervisor
Icon

Jacqueline Larkings

Inspector Construction, Field Operations Health and Safety
WorkSafe Victoria

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Main Conference Day 1

Panel Discussion

Panel discussion: Insights from the ground – revelations & guidance from women in trade and site roles

April 30, 13:30 pm

What inspired you to pursue a career in construction and what has kept you motivated during your career?

What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced working onsite, and how have you overcome them?

How has the culture and environment of the construction site evolved for women, and what improvements are still needed?

What advice do you have for women interested in pursuing a trade or labour role and how can they find longterm success in the industry?

Moderator

Liz Holzschuster

HSEQ Manager
Newpol Construction

Speaker Speakers

Kayla Collins

Senior Supervisor
Laing O'Rourke

Kate Leone

Communications Engineer
UGL

Beck Ricardo

Senior Site Supervisor
Icon

Jacqueline Larkings

Inspector Construction, Field Operations Health and Safety
WorkSafe Victoria

April 30, 14:10 pm

Case Study

Main Conference Day 1

Women in action case study: Embracing flexibility to advance careers & retain talent

Speaker Speakers

Samantha Grant

Board Member
Tradeswomen Australia

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Case Study

Women in action case study: Embracing flexibility to advance careers & retain talent

April 30, 14:10 pm

Explore how flexibility is essential to building a diverse and sustainable workforce while advancing career progression, with insights into the Safe Hands program and how tailored approaches can meet the diverse needs of workers, grow careers, and retain talent.

Speaker Speakers

Samantha Grant

Board Member
Tradeswomen Australia

April 30, 14:30 pm

Skills Spotlight

Main Conference Day 1

Skills spotlight: Developing the essential but often overlooked skills you need to influence others and succeed in construction

Speaker Speakers

Stefanie Nutt

People and Culture Director – M7-M12 Integration Project | Director
John Holland | NAWIC

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Skills Spotlight

Skills spotlight: Developing the essential but often overlooked skills you need to influence others and succeed in construction

April 30, 14:30 pm

Recognising influence as the centre point of driving innovation, managing stakeholders & delivering successful projects

Developing business acumen and contributing to decision making

Using failure as a tool to succeed in your role as a leader

Utilising empathy & emotional intelligence

Mastering the art of negotiation to drive project success

Speaker Speakers

Stefanie Nutt

People and Culture Director – M7-M12 Integration Project | Director
John Holland | NAWIC

April 30, 15:00 pm

Fireside Chat

Main Conference Day 1

Fireside chat: Achieving a thriving construction career while nurturing a fulfilling personal life

Speaker Speakers

Claire Hudson

Head of Workforce Planning & Recruitment
Richard Crookes Constructions

Penelope Arnold

Human Resources Director
GS E&C

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Fireside Chat

Fireside chat: Achieving a thriving construction career while nurturing a fulfilling personal life

April 30, 15:00 pm

Finding the balance between work, extracurricular professional development, and life outside the workplace

Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life to prioritise self-care, relaxation and family time outside of work hours

Exploring and advocating for flexible work arrangements to enhance work-life balance

Building a strong support network

Speaker Speakers

Claire Hudson

Head of Workforce Planning & Recruitment
Richard Crookes Constructions

Penelope Arnold

Human Resources Director
GS E&C

April 30, 15:30 pm

Break

Main Conference Day 1

Afternoon tea & networking

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Break

Afternoon tea & networking

April 30, 15:30 pm

April 30, 16:00 pm

Champagne Roundtables

Main Conference Day 1

Interactive Champagne Roundtables

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Champagne Roundtables

Interactive Champagne Roundtables

April 30, 16:00 pm

Discuss ideas, gain practical tips, and work through challenges faced by women across the construction & infrastructure landscape. Have all your questions answered while you network and build relationships with people you otherwise may not have access to. You can choose three of the below to attend with each roundtable running concurrently over three time slots:

Round 1: 16:00-16:30

Round 2: 16:30-17:00

Round 3: 17:00-17:30

Champagne Roundtables

Main Conference Day 1

Roundtable 1: Practical strategies & actionable steps to drive diversity on construction sites

Speaker Speakers

Gladys Woods

General Manager
Haslin Constructions

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Champagne Roundtables

Roundtable 1: Practical strategies & actionable steps to drive diversity on construction sites

Speaker Speakers

Gladys Woods

General Manager
Haslin Constructions

Main Conference Day 1

Roundtable 5: Overcoming imposter syndrome and communicating with confidence

Speaker Speakers

Mathanki Aru

Victoria State Manager
Structerre Consulting

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Champagne Roundtables

Roundtable 5: Overcoming imposter syndrome and communicating with confidence

Speaker Speakers

Mathanki Aru

Victoria State Manager
Structerre Consulting

Champagne Roundtables

Main Conference Day 1

Roundtable 6: Constructing a sustainable future

Speaker Speakers

Bohemia Hookham

Sustainability Manager, Construction
Lendlease

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Champagne Roundtables

April 30, 17:30 pm

Speaker Speakers

Jennifer Perkins

Director Learning and Teaching Electrical Trades
TAFE NSW

April 30, 17:35 pm

Networking Drinks

Main Conference Day 1

End of Day 1 and networking drinks

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Networking Drinks

End of Day 1 and networking drinks

April 30, 17:35 pm

April 30, 18:45 pm

Event Dinner

Main Conference Day 1

Official Event Dinner

Learn More

Main Conference Day 1

Event Dinner

Official Event Dinner

April 30, 18:45 pm

May 1, 08:30 am

Main Conference Day 2

Welcome coffee

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Welcome coffee

May 1, 08:30 am

May 1, 08:50 am

Opening Remarks

Main Conference Day 2

Opening remarks from the chair

Speaker Speakers

Liz Holzschuster

HSEQ Manager
Newpol Construction

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Opening Remarks

Opening remarks from the chair

May 1, 08:50 am

Speaker Speakers

Liz Holzschuster

HSEQ Manager
Newpol Construction

Achieving diversity and inclusion through collaboration

May 1, 09:00 am

Case Study

Main Conference Day 2

Women in action case study: Collaborating with Indigenous communities – a path to inclusive development

Speaker Speakers

Sharon Gray

Group Manager – Diversity, Indigenous and Social Inclusion
CPB Contractors

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Case Study

Women in action case study: Collaborating with Indigenous communities – a path to inclusive development

May 1, 09:00 am

Examine how women are leading construction projects that foster collaboration with Indigenous communities, ensuring cultural heritage is respected while delivering vital infrastructure. An accomplished Indigenous leader, Sharon will share her experience in driving cultural, inclusion and diversity transformation, including offering insights on applying the Connecting with Country framework to construction.

Speaker Speakers

Sharon Gray

Group Manager – Diversity, Indigenous and Social Inclusion
CPB Contractors

May 1, 09:30 am

Panel Discussion

Main Conference Day 2

Panel discussion: Overcoming gender bias & discrimination – how can we meaningfully drive real progress?

Speaker Speakers

Ivan Fratric

General Manager VIC/SA/TAS
BMD Group

Alison Brereton

Project Manager
Nicholson Construction

Jeanette Sleiman

Senior Design Manager
CPB Contractors

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Panel Discussion

Panel discussion: Overcoming gender bias & discrimination – how can we meaningfully drive real progress?

May 1, 09:30 am

How can we actively create and nurture work environments that empower women to thrive and contribute fully?

What is the critical role of mentorship in accelerating women’s career development and opening doors to leadership?

How can we identify and overcome unconscious biases in construction workplaces?

How can we all act as active allies, share leadership responsibilities, and promote diversity initiatives that drive industry-wide progress?

Speaker Speakers

Ivan Fratric

General Manager VIC/SA/TAS
BMD Group

Alison Brereton

Project Manager
Nicholson Construction

Jeanette Sleiman

Senior Design Manager
CPB Contractors

May 1, 10:20 am

Partner Presentation

Main Conference Day 2

Partner presentation

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Partner Presentation

Partner presentation

May 1, 10:20 am

May 1, 10:40 am

Break

Main Conference Day 2

Morning tea & networking

Learn More

May 1, 11:10 am

Incorporating physical risk management and mental health awareness into comprehensive safety training

Supporting workers facing stress, fatigue, and other challenges

Promoting a holistic approach to workforce wellbeing by integrating safety, mental health, and wellness initiatives into everyday site operations

Practical solutions to physical and mental health risks specifically faced by women

Speaker Speakers

Tracey Mitchell

Senior Safety Adviser
CYP Metro Tunnel

May 1, 11:40 am

Industry Spotlight

Main Conference Day 2

Industry trend spotlight: How Digital Engineering is redefining project deliverables, teams, and capabilities

Speaker Speakers

Rebecca De Cicco

Director Digital Engineering | Global Chair and Founder
DBM Vircon | Women in BIM

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Industry Spotlight

Industry trend spotlight: How Digital Engineering is redefining project deliverables, teams, and capabilities

May 1, 11:40 am

Exploring how digital engineering and technical processes are revolutionising construction projects and reshaping industry workflows

Examining how technology is changing workforce dynamics, improving efficiency, and altering the skill sets required in the field

Embracing continuous learning and proficiency to thrive in the evolving construction landscape

Speaker Speakers

Rebecca De Cicco

Director Digital Engineering | Global Chair and Founder
DBM Vircon | Women in BIM

May 1, 12:10 pm

Break

Main Conference Day 2

Networking lunch

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Break

Networking lunch

May 1, 12:10 pm

May 1, 13:10 pm

Industry Spotlight

Main Conference Day 2

Industry trend spotlight: Practical implementation of ESG initiatives in construction projects

Speaker Speakers

Nicole Strickland

Senior Environmental Advisor
Laing O’Rourke

Tayla Fairthorne

ESG Manager
Kapitol Group

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Industry Spotlight

Industry trend spotlight: Practical implementation of ESG initiatives in construction projects

May 1, 13:10 pm

Delve into how ESG can be applied and maintained across a construction entity to drive positive project, business, and ESG outcomes, as demonstrated by real world examples and the impact of ESG initiatives across project life cycles and organisational planning as a whole.

Speaker Speakers

Nicole Strickland

Senior Environmental Advisor
Laing O’Rourke

Tayla Fairthorne

ESG Manager
Kapitol Group

Building your project management & risk mitigation toolkit

May 1, 13:40 pm

Case Study

Main Conference Day 2

Women in action case study: Harnessing teamwork and collaboration for ongoing project success

Speaker Speakers

Amy Dowel

Construction Project Manager
Seymour Whyte

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Case Study

Women in action case study: Harnessing teamwork and collaboration for ongoing project success

May 1, 13:40 pm

Examine how effective communication and transparency engenders a high-performing team culture. Drawing upon her own experiences, Amy will highlight how colleagues can be empowered to do their best work in a positive environment.

Speaker Speakers

Amy Dowel

Construction Project Manager
Seymour Whyte

May 1, 14:10 pm

Skills Spotlight

Main Conference Day 2

Skills spotlight: Saving a construction project in crisis

Speaker Speakers

Nancy Italiano

Creative Design Director
Acustruct

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Skills Spotlight

Skills spotlight: Saving a construction project in crisis

May 1, 14:10 pm

Identifying and understanding the types of crises found on construction sites

Developing robust crisis response plans and protocols

Building resilience to make informed decisions under pressure during crisis situations

Fostering collaboration and coordination among internal and external stakeholders to minimise impact

Speaker Speakers

Nancy Italiano

Creative Design Director
Acustruct

May 1, 14:40 pm

Break

Main Conference Day 2

Afternoon tea & networking

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Break

Afternoon tea & networking

May 1, 14:40 pm

May 1, 15:00 pm

Industry Spotlight

Main Conference Day 2

Industry trend spotlight: Adapt or fail – the growing importance of climate resilience in construction

Speaker Speakers

Nicole Neal

General Manager – Health Safety Environment and Sustainability
McConnell Dowell

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Industry Spotlight

Industry trend spotlight: Adapt or fail – the growing importance of climate resilience in construction

May 1, 15:00 pm

Exploring climate change's impact on project planning: adapting designs for flood resilience, heat mitigation, and disaster preparedness

Examining how climate-resilient building materials and techniques are improving project durability and sustainability in extreme weather conditions

Developing a workforce skilled in climate-resilient design and construction practices to meet evolving environmental and regulatory demands.

Speaker Speakers

Nicole Neal

General Manager – Health Safety Environment and Sustainability
McConnell Dowell

Building essential leadership & management skills

May 1, 15:30 pm

Skills Spotlight

Main Conference Day 2

Skills spotlight: Leading by example – embodying resilience and flexibility in your team

Speaker Speakers

Sinèad Redmond

Head of Infrastructure Delivery
GeelongPort

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Skills Spotlight

Skills spotlight: Leading by example – embodying resilience and flexibility in your team

May 1, 15:30 pm

Adapting to changing roles and responsibilities

Overcoming gender stereotypes and biases

Learning flexibility in problem-solving

Managing stress and pressure

Speaker Speakers

Sinèad Redmond

Head of Infrastructure Delivery
GeelongPort

May 1, 16:00 pm

Panel Discussion

Main Conference Day 2

Panel discussion: Empowering the next generation of women in construction

Moderator

Angela Hucker

Chief Empowerment Officer
EPIC

Speaker Speakers

Dominique Gill

Managing Director
Urban Core

Paisley Flinn

Operations Manager
Sienna Homes

Mary Canagaratnam

Project Manager
Figurehead Construction

Sinèad Redmond

Head of Infrastructure Delivery
GeelongPort

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Panel Discussion

Panel discussion: Empowering the next generation of women in construction

May 1, 16:00 pm

As the conference concludes, join an inspiring panel of industry leaders to explore actionable strategies for empowering the next generation of women in construction. From mentorship and leadership opportunities to fostering inclusive workplaces and breaking barriers, this session will provide insights and practical advice to pave the way for future trailblazers. Be part of this critical conversation and help shape the future of a more diverse and equitable construction industry.

Moderator

Angela Hucker

Chief Empowerment Officer
EPIC

Speaker Speakers

Dominique Gill

Managing Director
Urban Core

Paisley Flinn

Operations Manager
Sienna Homes

Mary Canagaratnam

Project Manager
Figurehead Construction

Sinèad Redmond

Head of Infrastructure Delivery
GeelongPort

May 1, 16:45 pm

Closing Remarks

Main Conference Day 2

Closing remarks from the Chair & end of Women in Construction Summit 2025

Speaker Speakers

Jennifer Perkins

Director Learning and Teaching Electrical Trades
TAFE NSW

Learn More

Main Conference Day 2

Closing Remarks

Closing remarks from the Chair & end of Women in Construction Summit 2025

May 1, 16:45 pm

Speaker Speakers

Jennifer Perkins

Director Learning and Teaching Electrical Trades
TAFE NSW

April 29, 09:00 am

Masterclass

Pre-conference Masterclass

Management and Leadership Skills for Women in Construction and Infrastructure

Speaker Speakers

Bronwyn Williams

Keynote Speaker, Mentor, PhD Researcher

Learn More

Pre-conference Masterclass

Masterclass

Management and Leadership Skills for Women in Construction and Infrastructure

April 29, 09:00 am

The construction and infrastructure industries are navigating a perfect storm of challenges: skills shortages, rapidly evolving technologies, and complex project demands. In this landscape, leaders have a pivotal role to play in driving success—not just by leading but also by managing with precision and vision. This masterclass equips you with essential management and leadership skills to thrive in this dynamic environment and empower your teams to deliver exceptional results.

In this highly interactive and practical workshop, you will:

Distinguish between leadership and management by learning how to effectively balance strategic vision with day-to-day operational excellence

Strengthen your influence and presence with techniques to project confidence, navigate challenging situations, and amplify your impact within your organisation and beyond

Build and sustain high-performing teams with strategies to boost engagement, foster accountability, and inspire peak performance

Define your management style by establishing clarity in your approach to decision-making, problem-solving, and team dynamics

Refine your leadership brand by communicating your values and purpose in a way that inspires trust and respect

Evaluate and enhance your capabilities by reflecting on your strengths while identifying opportunities for growth

Master tools for collaboration and productivity while gaining practical frameworks to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and cultivate a culture of trust and innovation

This session is designed for women at all stages of their careers—whether you're a current leader, an aspiring manager, or a professional ready to take the next step. Join us to gain actionable insights, build your confidence, and unlock new levels of success for yourself and your team.

Speaker Speakers

Bronwyn Williams

Keynote Speaker, Mentor, PhD Researcher

Day/Stream

Main Conference Day 1
Main Conference Day 2
Pre-conference Masterclass

Main Conference Day 1
Main Conference Day 2
Pre-conference Masterclass

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