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Joanna Cassidy

from Environmental Health Officer to Bricklayer/Blocklayer
I am a commercial blocklayer changing the face of construction
Industry
Construction and infrastructure
Company
Cassidys Brick and Block Laying - Sponsored by Construction Pathways
Job Level
Senior

Ask me about

  • Why I became a blocklayer
  • What it's like being a woman in commercial construction
  • How apprenticeships compare with university
  • Starting a construction business from scratch

About me

When I finished school, I thought university was the only pathway to success. I completed two university degrees and spent years working in government compliance before realising I wanted a career where I could build something tangible every day. Starting a bricklaying apprenticeship as an adult completely changed my life.

Today I’m one of Australia’s only full-time qualified female commercial blocklayers working on major commercial construction projects. Together with my husband, we co-founded Cassidys Brick and Block Laying Pty Ltd, where we employ and mentor apprentices from diverse backgrounds. My goal isn’t just to build buildings, it’s to break barriers, challenge outdated stereotypes and show young people that it’s never too late to change direction and pursue a career they’re genuinely passionate about.

About my role

  • Confident
  • Creative
  • Humorous
  • Passionate
  • Sociable


I specialise in commercial blocklaying, constructing the structural walls that support high-rise apartments, schools, hospitals, warehouses and other large commercial developments across Queensland. Every day I read engineering and architectural plans, set out walls, lay concrete masonry, operate alongside other trades, and ensure every structure is built safely and accurately.

Construction is about much more than laying blocks. It requires problem-solving, teamwork, communication, resilience and precision. As one of Australia’s only full-time qualified female commercial blocklayers working on the tools, I’m passionate about challenging stereotypes and showing young people that careers shouldn’t be limited by gender or expectations. I also mentor apprentices, speak at schools and industry events, and help inspire the next generation to consider careers in construction.

Education

  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health (Griffith University)
  • Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice (Griffith University)
  • Certificate III in Bricklaying & Blocklaying (TAFE Queensland)

Subjects

  • Chemistry
  • Dance
  • Drama
  • English
  • General Mathematics (Maths A)
  • History
  • Music
  • Performing Arts
  • Physical Education
  • Psychology
  • Science

Awards

  • Alder Group Certificate of Recognition – Safety - April 2026
  • Alder Group Certificate of Recognition – Quality - May 2026

Hobbies

  • Beach adventures
  • Camping
  • Gardening
  • Painting
  • Photography

Pets

  • 1 Dog

15 year old me!!

“Don’t let anyone decide what’s possible for you. The best career is the one that excites you, challenges you and makes you proud of what you build.”

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Completed two university degrees
  2. Government compliance career
  3. Started mature-age apprenticeship
  4. Co-founded construction business
  5. Inspiring future tradespeople

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 this Advisors employer below. Cassidys Brick and Block Laying Pty Ltd is built on over 28+ years of combined trade experience in the brick and block laying industry. Founded and operated by husband-and-wife team Joshua Cassidy and Joanna Cassidy, both qualified bricklayers, the company brings together a unique combination of longstanding expertise and fresh perspective. While newly incorporated, our leadership and workforce bring a wealth of knowledge and practical expertise gained from involvement in major civil, government, commercial and high-end residential projects. As a family-owned and operated business, we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern construction practices to deliver reliable, high-quality outcomes. We pride ourselves on professionalism, safety, integrity and on being a company that raises industry standards while breaking new ground for diversity and inclusion.