Bridging the building industry's gender gap

Since marveling at the Sea Cliff Bridge on a school trip in Year 11, Emily Crozier has dreamed of creating physical spaces for people to connect and come together. “When most people look at buildings they see concrete, steel and glass. What I see is the people and passion that goes into each project,” she says.

This led Emily to pursue a double Bachelor degree in Civil Engineering and Creative Intelligence and Innovation at UTS, where she ran the UTS Women in Engineering Equity and Outreach Program, and spoke with young women at schools across Sydney.

“I think for many years, engineering and building became unappealing to girls because of the view that it’s all about maths and physics. But I always say that engineering and building is all about connecting with people, being interested in them, and showing empathy at the right time,” says Emily.

I think for many years, engineering and building became unappealing to girls because of the view that it’s all about maths and physics. But I always say that engineering and building is all about connecting with people, being interested in them, and showing empathy at the right time. 

 Emily Crozier 

Women leading the way

After undertaking multiple Engineering work placements in her final year of university, Emily discovered a love for the building industry. She applied for the 2018 Richard Crookes Constructions Merit Scholarship for Women, which then awarded $7000 and a paid work placement to one female student in the Faculty of Engineering and IT or Design, Architecture and Building.

“I became really interested in working for Richard Crookes Constructions after seeing how much amazing work they were doing around UTS – their ability to go above and beyond really stood out to me. Especially with the UTS Central building,” says Emily.

To her delight, Emily was awarded the scholarship. “The money was a bonus, but the practical experience I got was invaluable,” says Emily. “Plus, I was lucky to be placed into a team with a female project manager, female design manager and a couple of female engineers. It was clear from the beginning that Richard Crookes Constructions not only supports women, but empowers women-strong teams.”

Building a more inclusive industry

Emily joined the team in October 2018, and has been working there ever since. “When I graduated, I actually had a couple of different offers from other companies, but I knew I wouldn’t have been as happy or content as I am now,” she says. “Richard Crookes Constructions has allowed me to take really big steps in my career. They’re all about giving people opportunities, and you’re a part of a team who genuinely wants to support you.”

Buildings are used by everyone, so they should be built by everyone. And I genuinely believe that girls have the power to change the face of the construction industry.

Emily Crozier

Construction Manager Bill Stavrinos recognised Emily’s talent immediately. “The first time I met Emily, I knew she’d be an asset to our team – and to the industry,” he says. “We’re passionate about providing opportunities for the next generation, and believe that a diverse and inclusive culture drives the best project outcomes.”

And with talented young women like Emily leading the way, the future is looking bright. “Buildings are used by everyone, so they should be built by everyone. And I genuinely believe that girls have the power to change the face of the construction industry,” says Emily. 
 

You can help support more students like Emily

Emily's life changed after receiving the Richard Crookes Constructions Merit Scholarship for Women. You can help empower more students to achieve their university dreams by generously donating to support student scholarships.