This year’s All-Female Build with Seymour Whyte is something of a momentous occasion for Constructionarium Australia as we welcome back, for the first time, a member of our alumni to lead a build. An alumnus of our 2021 All-Female Build, Rychelle Witney, knows first-hand the challenges that await our cohort across their build and the opportunities that taking part in a build can offer.
As the build’s project manager, Rychelle will support our cohort with mentoring, advice and practical support across the complete build cycle. We caught up with Rychelle to find out more about her Constructionarium Australia experience.
2021 All-Female Build Participant
What did you enjoy most about Constructionarium Australia?
Lunch and learns were incredibly interesting. Hearing from industry professionals was so inspiring and eye-opening to just how many opportunities are out there.
At my current project, I am the only female engineer in the office. It was great to meet other engineers and hear their stories in similar positions to my own. We actually have a group in a social media app and we have spoken since the 2021 Constructionarium build finished. This really shines a light on how well everyone connects during the build to continually support each other, even once the experience has ended.
What did you learn about yourself or the industry as part of Constructionarium Australia?
I learnt that the industry is willing to push you if you are willing to put your all into what you do. Construction seems like this big, impenetrable machine, but you really do get out what you put in.
What is the one thing you will always remember about being part of the build?
I remember how daunting it felt to begin with. I had never done anything structures related. I had never been part of a tender process. But at the end of the experience, none of that mattered because I felt so proud of what my fellow participants and I had accomplished over the week and a half.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about taking part in a future build?
Go for it. I almost backed out in 2021 but my project team convinced me to go, and I’m so glad that they did. You get unforgettable experiences and networking opportunities you seldom get anywhere else. And if you think you need experience to participate, you definitely don’t. There is a great support network here that will help you along, but you might surprise yourself with how much you do know and can contribute!
How did Constructionarium participation help you across the last 12 months?
I learnt to value my opinion and to back myself, my decision making and knowledge. You will not be correct 100% of the time but that is okay! Contribution matters a whole lot more in a team environment than proving you know all the answers.
2022 All-Female Build Project Manager
What will be your biggest challenge moving from cohort member to leader?
My biggest challenge will be stepping back and letting the participants find their own journey. I loved last year so much that I just want to build it again!
Knowing what you know, what piece of advice would you give to our cohort?
My advice would be to get out of your comfort zone and try a ‘project position’ that is on the opposite end of the spectrum to what you do or know.
What does it mean to you to lead a Constructionarium build?
I have been given incredible opportunities during my time with Seymour Whyte for which I am very grateful. I take great pride in being able to support and grow the next cohort of engineers in the industry. I love what I do, and I want to show others that passion and how the industry rewards those that work hard.
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