isabella’s introduction to the construction world started in her home country of colombia.
As a child, Isabella loved playing with building blocks, playhouses and lego castles, the spark of imaginative play that would turn into a career. With her passion for building, she decided to study civil engineering.
There was just one problem. Back then, women enrolling in engineering degrees was a rarity. It wasn’t even encouraged as a viable option. Isabella recalls the traditional gender roles and misconceptions as the first barrier to breaking through during the start of her professional journey.
‘Some family members were not very happy with the idea of me becoming an engineer. They tried to persuade me to pick any other career, just not engineering, that wasn’t ‘for girls.'
Now, of course, they don't think that anymore. They see how far I’ve come and are proud of me.
women can do anything.
With a passion for her work and a determination to succeed, Isabella has developed her career since arriving in Australia four years ago. Through Randstad, she became a senior contract administrator at Corporate Interior Projects.
A client-facing job perfect for an organised, critical thinker with experience in the industry. In her new role, Isabella works closely with many inspiring female professionals whose careers are taking off just like hers. Isabella says the key to women’s success in the industry lies in the extraordinary value they have to offer.
I see a lot of women being promoted. I think women are determined to prove how much value we bring to the industry. We are highly organised and good at understanding client needs and fostering relationships. We are willing to go that extra mile at work.
with the construction sector slowly changing
Isabella believes that the industry is becoming an attractive career choice for women, especially when companies like Corporate Interior Projects, with diversity and inclusion at their forefront.
‘I have no doubt I will grow and develop in this line of work. I plan on having children one day, not yet, but one day. And I am confident I can be a parent while also building my career. I can go on maternity leave and come back to the same opportunities. I feel very supported in my workplace.’ she says.
Isabella aims to complete her master's degree in project management and take on a leadership role in the next few years.
She always wanted to see more female directors and company owners in the sector, and maybe one day, she could be one of them.
I would very much like to direct a construction company one day. This is what I am working towards.
