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Theri Yip

from Design Intern to Carpenter
I construct high-quality structures on large commercial projects
Industry
Construction and infrastructure
Company
McNab - Sponsored by Construction Pathways
Job Level
Mid

Ask me about

  • How I built confidence starting from scratch with no experience
  • What it's like working on large-scale constructions sites as a woman
  • How I knew a trade suited me better than university
  • The difference between residential and commercial carpentry

About me

Throughout high school, I had endless ideas about what I wanted to do, but architecture was the first path I decided to explore. After graduating, I took a gap year and then began studying architecture at university. It didn’t take long for me to realise that, while I loved the construction world, the degree itself wasn’t the right fit for me. I knew I wanted to be in the industry in a more hands-on way.

Choosing a trade made sense – it allowed me to learn while working, earn as I developed my skills, and gain respect within the industry through real experience on site. I began in residential carpentry, building a strong foundation in the fundamentals before moving into commercial construction, where I now work on large-scale projects. Today, I’m a dedicated carpenter building a long-term future in the construction industry.

About my role

  • Curious
  • Decisive
  • Independent
  • Intuitive
  • Sociable
  • Understanding

This role requires reading and interpreting plans, constructing and installing building components to specification, and working collaboratively with site managers, engineers, and multiple trades to ensure projects progress safely and efficiently.

A commercial carpenter is relied on for precision, problem-solving, and the ability to operate confidently in dynamic, high-pressure environments. The position also supports maintaining site standards, ensuring compliance with safety requirements, and contributing to overall build quality from early stages through to completion. As a female in commercial construction, this role also represents a shift in industry culture—demonstrating capability, leadership, and resilience in a space where women continue to pave the way forward.

Education

  • High School Certificate
  • Certificate III in Carpentry
  • Cert III in Education Support

Subjects

  • Art
  • Dance
  • Design
  • English
  • Food and Technology
  • General Mathematics (Maths A)
  • History

Awards

  • NAWIC Apprentice of the Year Finalist
  • Senior Prefect Award
  • QATSIF Scholarship Recipient
  • Regional Arts Creative Generation Excellence Award
  • Youth Art Exhibition Regional Finalist

Hobbies

  • Beach adventures
  • Hiking
  • Interior design
  • Photography
  • Pilates
  • Seeing family and friends

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Took a gap year
  2. Started studying architecture at university
  3. Took another gap year
  4. Started my apprenticeship
  5. Completed my apprenticeship

My typical day

My employer

Through UNIQ You’s partnership with Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) we have been able to welcome construction Advisors from CSQ’s Major Contractor Partners. Read more about this Advisors employer below. McNab is one of Australia’s largest and most trusted privately-owned construction, development, and property groups, generating around $1 billion annually. With long-term industry relationships and a group of businesses that includes award-winning construction, property developments, building revitalisation, building materials, construction hire, and skilled trades and labour, McNab is uniquely positioned to deliver certainty and quality in an ever-changing environment. Visit mcnab.net.au.