What began as a small pilot program has since blossomed into a dynamic and impactful science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiative, empowering young women to explore and pursue careers in construction and engineering.
With growing participation and expanded training teams, Construct Her Future is breaking new ground, inspiring confidence, collaboration and career aspirations among young women across Queensland.
Building on the success of the 2024 pilot program led by Constructionarium Executive CEO, Nicky Vaisey, the 2025 program expanded significantly, delivering even greater impact and engagement.
“2025 was a major achievement for Construct Her Future with two program intakes, one from 30 June to 4 July and the second from 22 to 26 September, welcoming a total of 39 participants,” Nicky Vaisey said.
“The program benefited greatly from additional trainers. Senior trainers Emma Klint-Pedersen, McIlwain and Phoebe Salter, Hansen Engineering Group led many of the early-stage presentations as their youth allowed them to resonate strongly with the Year 11 girls,” Ms Vaisey said.
“We had a larger number of schools participating which worked exceptionally well, encouraging the girls to step outside their comfort zones” she said.
“We continuously improve the program based on feedback and post program reviews,” she said.
“For example, this year we organised the bridge components more logically which helped the students be able to read the design drawings.”
“On the final day in September, there were 11 different organisations providing information about potential careers and study options to the girls.”
Pictured – The commencement of the September 2025 build.
Following the success of the 2025 programs, exciting developments are underway for the future of Construct Her Future.
“I’m delighted to say that Construction Skills Queensland (QLD) wants to continue this initiative with two builds planned for 2026 with dates to be confirmed,” Nicky Vaisey said.
“Applications for the 2026 intakes will open early next year, so we encourage young girls interested in the program to stay tuned for updates,” Ms Vaisey said.
“Students keen to participate, or schools looking to get involved, can reach out to myself or Ashley Begg at CSQ for more information,” she said.
“Girls who participated in the 2024 and 2025 programs and are interested in stepping up as senior trainers for the 2026 programs are also encouraged to get in touch.”
Pictured – September 2025 program overview.
The 2025 program brought together a dedicated team of trainers and continued hands-on bridge building projects.
“Our main trainers for 2025 were me and Harry Hartman, Constructionarium Australia CTO, with senior trainers Emma Klint-Pedersen and Phoebe Salter,” Nicky Vaisey said.
“Support trainers in June were Keola Westcott, Constructionarium Australia COO and Emma Liu, with Taylor Stuart joining Emma Liu as support trainer in September. Alex Ibarra, Constructionarium Australia trainer also assisted,” Ms Vaisey said.
“Similar to the 2024 program, the 2025 cohorts constructed two bridges from Wagners Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) profiles, one fishbone shaped bridge and one straight bridge,” she said.
“The programs were again held at the Construction Training Centre in Salisbury, Queensland with the support of McIlwain and Wagners CFT.”
Pictured – Collaboration between the young women during the building phase.
McIlwain Undergraduate Engineer and Construct Her Future Senior Trainer, Emma Klint-Pedersen completed a Constructionarium build and was subsequently invited to become a trainer for Construct Her Future.
“I had such an amazing experience at the Constructionarium myself and learned so much from it. I was grateful and honoured for the opportunity to provide others with that same opportunity,” Emma Klint-Pedersen said.
“The Construct Her Future program also sounded like something I would have loved to do back in high school, so being able to support the girls through it felt really meaningful,” Ms Klint-Pedersen said.
“My goal was simple—if even one girl walked away with a spark of interest in construction or engineering, then I was confident I’d done my job,” she said.
“At the same time, I was excited to mentor, share my experiences and continue developing my own leadership and communication skills along the way.”
Pictured – Young women carrying a Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) profile into position.
Some of Emma’s proudest moments from the Construct Her Future program highlight the incredible growth and achievements of the participants.
“One of my proudest moments was at our most recent Construct Her Future program in September, when two girls from our very first build, over a year ago, came back for the opening ceremony,” Emma Klint-Pedersen said.
“They shared how Year 12 was going and told us they were applying to study engineering at QUT,” Ms Klint-Pedersen said.
“Hearing that was such a proud moment, knowing the program had played a part in shaping their planned future pathways,” she said.
“Another highlight was seeing one of the participants take the initiative to approach a construction company and secure some vocational work experience.”
“That kind of confidence and drive shows exactly what we hope the program inspires in the girls.”
“I’m also really proud of seeing how much the girls grow out of their shells and build confidence over the week.”
“Watching that transformation and knowing the program has helped spark it makes me so proud as a trainer.”
Pictured – Participants analysing the bridge design during construction.
Hansen Engineering Group Civil Designer and Construct Her Future Senior Trainer, Phoebe Salter is optimistic about the growing inclusion of women in the field.
“I think the industry has come a long way. When I was completing my trade, I was often the only female on-site,” Phoebe Salter said.
“Now, I’m seeing and meeting so many women working across different roles in the industry and it’s incredibly encouraging to see so many young females interested in construction and engineering,” Ms Salter said.
“I truly believe more doors are opening for the next generation, allowing them to pursue the careers they want while feeling included and supported, rather than discriminated against,” she said.
“The shift toward a more inclusive and diverse industry is happening and it’s exciting to be part of that change.
Pictured – Senior Trainer, Phoebe Salter providing support to the young women during the build.
Phoebe encourages young women to go after their goals in construction and engineering
“If you’re interested in a career in construction or engineering, seize every opportunity you can,” Phoebe Salter said.
“Reach out to companies, ask questions, take that leap and go after what you believe is possible,” Ms Salter said.
“Never doubt yourself or your abilities just because it’s a male-dominated field,” she said.
“You are capable and your perspective is valuable. The industry needs more diverse voices and there’s absolutely a place for you in it.”
Pictured – Construct Her Future organisers and sponsors – Constructionarium, McIlwain, Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) and Wagners CFT.
Three Year 11 students from the Australian International Islamic College urged aspiring engineers to join Construct Her Future.
“If you’re wanting to do engineering, sign up for Construct Her Future, complete the program and jumpstart your career,” Zainab Akter said.
“Instead of just learning theory, you can come here and dive into hands-on work,” Shugri Mohamed said.
“Don’t be afraid to take opportunities like participating in Construct Her Future,” Nur Asia Abdul Malik said.
“You only live once, so take advantage of every single opportunity,” Ms Abdul Malik said.
Pictured – The September 2025 cohort on one of their completed FRP bridges.
The Construct Her Future pilot program achieved its objectives, establishing a solid foundation for the 2025 intakes and paving the way for even more exciting developments.
“The 2024 pilot program was extremely successful, and we learnt a lot from delivering the program to just 10 girls,” Nicky Vaisey said.
“We received very positive feedback from all involved including the Year 11 students, teachers, parents and careers market representatives,” Ms Vaisey said.
“The intention of Construct Her Future is to show the huge variety of careers in the infrastructure industry, to encourage females to consider studying STEM and particularly construction related courses at University, TAFE or other pathways,” she said.
“And also to help them make informed career and study decisions.”
“Women are seriously underrepresented in the infrastructure industry, especially on sites but there are so many opportunities available – especially in Queensland where there is a real skills shortage.”
“We’re excited to see the Construct Her Future program continue to grow and inspire even more young women to explore the incredible opportunities within the industry.”
“A huge thanks to all of our sponsors, including McIlwain and Wagners, our trainers, the participating schools and girls and parents, and of course CSQ for supporting the program. And to CTC for providing a great site.”
For more information on the program, visit the Construct Her Future website – https://constructionpathways.com.au/programs/construct-her-future/
Watch the webinar ‘Construct Her Future’ to learn more about the program from Nicky Vaisey, Ashley Begg and Anna Richardson – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxxH_F7DYac&t=1476s
Read ‘World first pilot program attracts young women to construction careers’ to hear from the 2024 cohort – https://www.wagnerscft.com.au/world-first-pilot-program-attracts-young-women-to-construction-careers/
Contact Nicky Vaisey, Constructionarium Executive CEO – nicky@constructionarium.com.au or Ashey Begg, Construction Skills Queensland Manager, Infrastructure Industry Development – ashley.begg@csq.org.au
Watch ‘Construct Her Future: Immersing young females in Civil Construction!’ to see the June/July 2025 intake come to life – https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=jC6Ax4gKYa0
Pictured – The finished FRP fishbone bridge from the September 2025 cohort.
