UNIQ You, a Queensland based not-for-profit, is excited to announce BMD as its next foundational partner, a sign of growing support within the construction industry for increased female representation.
Construction is one of Australia’s most male dominated sectors, with women constituting only 18.1%. of the workforce. Further to this, engineers, who are required on all construction jobs, comprise only 12% women.
A lack of diverse ideas and viewpoints limit the potential of built spaces to meet the needs of everyone in the community. To keep speed with the industry’s huge growth spurt, immediate action is needed to increase inclusively in the places we live, work and play.
As a champion for change, BMD Executive General Manager – Constructions Jeff Gallus believes there are important lessons to be learned from abroad:
“Having spent four years working in the construction industry in the Philippines, a society where 35% of engineers are women, the innovation and exceptional project outcomes achieved by gender balanced project teams is one clear reason why increasing female representation in the Australian construction industry is so important,” Jeff says.
“BMD is excited to be partnering with UNIQ You as we believe the initiative fills a real gap in the market. Supporting UNIQ You aligns with our family values, unique culture, and commitment to increasing diversity within our business.
Through involvement in UNIQ You, BMD looks forward to educating the next generation of engineers and construction professionals to ensure STEM related fields are recognised as a meaningful career path for women,” he says.
Where innovation is vital to business success UNIQ You’s CEO Tanya Meessmann believes the dearth of women is limiting everyone:
‘Fostering unique opportunities for the next generation benefits everyone. Increasing the visibility of women already working in under-represented sectors allows high school girls to explore and realise their potential,’ she says, ‘and progressing gender equality ensures Australia stays competitive in the global market.’
Known as the ‘BMD Way’, BMD’s genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion will without a doubt help UNIQ You hit the nail on the head when it comes to increasing the pipeline of female talent into the construction industry.
About BMD
BMD is a national group of companies engaged in engineering design, construction and land development for clients and partners in the urban development, transport infrastructure and resources and energy sectors. Since 1979, BMD has employed a relationship based business model founded on certainty, collaboration and performance.
With approximately 1700 staff throughout Australia, BMD has the resources and experience to deliver projects ranging in size from $1 million to over $1 billion.