At Coffey Testing, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace, ensuring that women have the opportunity to thrive in the construction materials testing industry. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the progress we’ve made and the incredible women who contribute to our success every day.
Leading by Example
Our CEO, Dawn Watt, has built an impressive career in the industry, and we are proud to have her at the helm. She acknowledges that gender representation remains an ongoing challenge, but we are actively working to shift the status quo.
At Coffey Testing, 30% of our leadership team is made up of women, exceeding the industry average. According to recent research by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), the top 20 construction companies and developers in Australia have, on average, fewer than 20% of leadership roles filled by women. This highlights the significant strides we have made in fostering gender diversity within our organisation.
Furthermore, women make up 17% of our total workforce, compared to the broader construction industry average, which is estimated to be around 12-14%. While we are proud of the progress we have made, we see room for improvement and are constantly working towards achieving a more balanced and inclusive workplace. Our commitment to diversity goes beyond just numbers—it is about creating a culture where women feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
With women represented across departments, from the labs to management, we are demonstrating that diverse workplaces foster innovation and success.
Changing the Conversation
One of the biggest challenges in attracting more women to the industry is visibility. Many young women aren’t aware of the career opportunities available in construction materials testing. We actively participate in career expos, high school programs, and TAFE outreach initiatives to inspire the next generation of women to consider careers in construction materials testing.
Supporting Career Growth
Creating an inclusive workplace is about more than just hiring—it’s about fostering an environment where women can thrive. We are focused on creating pathways for growth, ensuring that opportunities for leadership and technical development are accessible. From training programs to mentorship opportunities, we are committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring long-term career success for women within our company.
Looking Ahead
The industry still has a way to go in achieving true gender balance, but progress is happening. Our Chief People and Compliance Officer, Suze Garas, believes that with continued focus, the construction materials testing sector can become more inclusive.
“We need to challenge outdated mindsets and actively create opportunities for women. That means rethinking recruitment practices, providing flexible work options, and continuing to advocate for representation at all levels,” Suze says.
As proud members of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), we are committed to supporting and empowering women in our industry. Through our partnership with NAWIC, we continue to advocate for increased female participation, equitable opportunities, and meaningful career progression for women in construction.
By leading by example and fostering a workplace where women can excel, we are demonstrating that change is not only possible but necessary. This International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to breaking down barriers and building a more inclusive future for women in construction.
