March 08, 2022
This International Women’s Day (IWD) we spoke to some of our female staff, who play a key role in New Zealand’s construction and services industry. The electrical field has historically been male dominated, however, having a diverse pool of talent is vital to McKay’s success. Hear what Fiona Bycroft has to say about her experience as a Regional Manager in the electrical field and how we can #breakthebias…
Fiona – Northland Regional Manager
What advice would you give to a woman working in the electrical industry?
Be proud of what you are doing. Unfortunately, we are still a minority, and this can bring its own challenges, however, it also presents opportunities to bring a different set of skills or mindset. Some workplaces may not appreciate these differences, but the right company will! Do what you can to help bring more women in.
As a female manager what advice would you give other females thinking about joining the electrical industry?
Do it! There are plenty of opportunities when you find the right company. If you are ever looking for advise on which companies are supportive of greater diversity, have a look at groups that support women in the industry such as Women in Infrastructure and Women in Trades as examples. Get in touch with people in these groups as they love to support other women in the industry.
What do you enjoy most about being a manager?
Bringing in complementary skills to the team I work with. Particularly the focus on culture and wellbeing of our people and having the opportunity to make a difference to the diversity of our teams.
What can both men and women do to help support females in the electrical industry?
Discuss what the barriers are for women in your industry – preferably with women doing the role and then eliminate or minimize them.
Interested in a career in the electrical industry? Find out more about McKay’s available job roles.
International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. International Women’s Day 2022 campaign theme is #breakthebias. Collectively we can all #breakthebias this International Women’s Day and Beyond #IWD2022
Want to hear from other woman in the electrical industry? Find out more 👇
