If you talk to Stacey, a humble, quiet and consistent leader, she
will always tell you it is not about winning for herself, she sees this type of
recognition as another way of increasing the visibility of all women in
construction for the betterment of the whole sector.
Stacey, along with two
other women, established the National Association of Women In Construction
(NAWIC) in 1996 after observing that females working in the sector were often
isolated and unsupported. Women make up 50% of society yet only comprise 13% of
the New Zealand construction industry. NAWIC aims to improve this statistic by
promoting and encouraging more women into the industry and to help keep them
there.
This isn’t just about
women – it’s about our economy and addressing general skills shortages in
construction. It’s about getting women
of all ethnicities into productive careers that pay well, are rewarding and can
help to build our nation – literally.
Today, NAWIC has eight
active chapters, more than 1600 members and delivers a prestigious annual
excellence in construction awards programme that celebrates women’s
contributions and achievements within the industry.
The organisation’s purpose
is to encourage women to pursue, establish and sustain successful careers in
the construction industry, and Stacey has supported this aim through the many
volunteer roles she has held within NAWIC and throughout her work as a senior
quantity surveyor.
She uses every chance she
gets to speak, lead, influence, and champion Diversity Equity and Inclusion,
whether that’s at webinars, at conferences or one-on-one with people and
leaders in the sector. Stacey literally, lives and breathes this in her everyday
life, it is not a ‘should do’ for her it is part of who she is.
Stacey often organises
visits for NAWIC local members to view sites under construction and to learn
from the consultants involved in the project. She also arranges smaller sites
visits for women to ensure they get to see more construction up close and to
connect in a safe social environment.
Currently working on a
busy Central Wellington construction project, Stacey regularly walks the site
to increase visibility for women. She is frequently asked to speak on behalf of
women who otherwise would not have the confidence to raise concerns about the
unacceptable behaviour they have experienced. Stacey encourages and mentors
both women and men in their construction studies and career paths.
“Stacey is a leading
voice, using her influence to increase the inclusion of and respect for women
working in construction”, says Diversity Works New Zealand Chief Executive
Maretha Smit.
“She works to get
alongside people in power, to influence behaviours and she is not afraid to
challenge the most senior people in organisations to do better and be better,”
“Stacey is an excellent
communicator and quiet collaborator, using stories and anecdotes to make her
point and is always willing to share her experiences with those who can improve
the experiences of women in construction.”
NAWIC welcomes members
from across the sector.
Find out more about NAWIC
and how you can get involved here.
