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International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8th, and this year’s theme is “Break the Bias“. The goal is to imagine a world where there were no bias, stereotypes, or discrimination, and genders equally represented in all kinds of workplaces. We wanted to highlight one of our clients who is breaking the bias and is a leading woman in the construction industry, Alyce Affleck.
Alyce has been in the construction industry for just over 10 years and is currently a Director at Queensland Civil Solutions. She says the “working in the industry happened more by default, from watching my husband’s business to helping him and then evolving into the leadership role I’m in today.” We asked Alyce a few questions about working in construction and some challenges she faces.
As a woman in a leadership position in the construction industry, you’re already breaking so many biases! What is something you’d say to women looking to get into roles in the construction industry here in Queensland, or more broadly in Australia?
What are you waiting for? Do it! There are so many facets and job roles in the construction industry from being on-site to an office environment. Companies are instilling gender diversity and creating equal opportunities for women, albeit slowly it is great to see more women in our industry. Construction is fast-paced, the need to constantly adapt and change makes for an exciting work environment. Sure it can be challenging, as are other industries but when you succeed in a male-dominated industry it’s ultimately very rewarding.
What is currently the biggest challenge you face as a woman in construction?
There are many challenges and stigmas that women face in the industry. For me, the biggest hurdle is balance. The old adage of having a work/life balance. Being a woman and mother, the domestic and parenting roles are predominantly my responsibility. Because of this, something often has to sacrifice for the other to flourish. Work doesn’t stop when my “hat” changes, there are many commutes to school and afternoon activities that consist of teleconferences and meetings.
What is your favorite thing about working with MHF?
Since the day QCS started, with our very first piece of equipment Ian and the team at MHF have been exceptional to work with. They know what we do and what we need for our business, they understand industry and machinery. MHF has our best interests at heart and helps take the stress out of what can be a very arduous process. With our latest piece of equipment which we imported from the US, MHF worked with our bank to facilitate the best commercially viable option for our business.
Thank you Alyce for breaking biases and being a role model for other women who are looking to get into construction.
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