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Karen Reynolds

from Cafe, Motel and Restaurant Worker to Superintendent
I am a Queensland construction leader, delivering impact with experience, integrity, resilience and heart.
Industry
Construction and infrastructure
Company
BHP Mitsubishi Alliance - Sponsored by Construction Pathways
Job Level
Mid

Ask me about

  • How construction is weaved throughout life
  • Why mentoring young people in construction matters
  • How industry pathways really work
  • My work on major projects in different states and countries

About me

  • International Experience
  • Regional Background

I grew up in Barcaldine in Western Queensland, shaped by country values and early exposure to heavy transport, hospitality and accounting. I moved to Rockhampton to study a Bachelor of Business in Advanced Marketing Management, picking sweet potatoes for my uncle and later entering accounts for a local builder a few days a week. That opportunity grew into full-time work and with encouragement I began my Bachelor of Construction Management.

In 2012, I became one of Queensland’s youngest licensed builders. Since 2005, I’ve delivered more than $500m in projects across Queensland, the Northern Territory, Tasmania and New Zealand. I later served on a statutory licensing tribunal and completed a Master of Laws in Enterprise Governance. Today, I mentor an apprentice electrician through Master Builders Queensland, staying deeply committed to the industry.

About my role

  • Focused
  • Passionate
  • Personable
  • Principled
  • Rational

Within BMA, Infrastructure and Services provides the essential housing, village and transport services that enable the operational workforce to safely and reliably deliver for the business. The Facilities Maintenance function oversees a significant regional asset base, including approximately 1,300 domestic homes, 4,500 village rooms and an airport across two Queensland townships, ensuring these critical community and workforce assets remain compliant, functional and fit-for-purpose.

As a licensed Medium Rise Builder and Project Manager, I bring technical capability, commercial judgement and a strong commitment to safe, reliable and fit‑for‑purpose outcomes. I stay deeply connected to industry through Master Builders Queensland, AICD and Women on Boards and I contribute through mentoring and board service. At my core, I’m a practical, caring and resilient leader who shows up with integrity and works hard to deliver for people, communities and organisations.

Education

  • Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) Licensed Builder (Medium Rise) and Project Management Services
  • Masters of Laws in Enterprise Governance
  • Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Business (Advanced Marketing Management)

Subjects

  • Building and Construction Skills

Awards

  • Winner of Construction Skills Queensland Construction Female of the Year 2009
  • Winner of Master Builders Women in Construction Award 2009 Central Queensland
  • Winner of Master Builders Women in Construction Award 2008 Central Queensland

Hobbies

  • Reading
  • Seeing family and friends
  • Travel
  • Volunteering
  • Yoga

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Started working in construction
  2. Appeared on undercover boss with Hutchies
  3. Moved to Tasmania and then New Zealand
  4. Appointed to the Licensed Building Practitioners board
  5. Working for big business in construction

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 Contractors and industry partners. Read more about my employer below. BMA is Australia’s largest producer and supplier of seaborne steelmaking coal and is owned 50:50 by BHP and Mitsubishi Development. BMA operates five Bowen Basin mines (Goonyella Riverside, Broadmeadow, Peak Downs, Saraji and Caval Ridge) and owns and operates the Hay Point Coal Terminal near Mackay.