This International Women’s Day, UGL is proud to spotlight inspiring women in trades who are making an impact on large-scale infrastructure projects across Australia. Among them is Kirsty Booth, a seasoned electrician who recently stepped into the role of leading hand on the Cross River Rail project in Brisbane.
In her role, Kirsty designs and leads daily operations by organising tasks, streamlining workflows, and ensuring her team has everything they need to work safetly and succeed. Her journey to becoming a leader in this field stems from her technical expertise and her passion for a career she describes as “the best job I’ve ever done.”
With more than 12 years in the electrical trade, Kirsty displays a strong work ethic. Her typical day begins with planning jobs for the team, ensuring gear and resources are in place, and working hands-on in control systems - an area of electrical work she hadn’t explored before joining Cross River Rail.
"What I love is the variety. Every day is different, and there are always new challenges to work through," said Kirsty.
UGL’s supportive culture has played a significant role in her success, with managers always available to guide her through challenges.
"The management team has made my transition to a leadership role easy. Whether I have a question or am seeking direction, they're approachable and supportive," she shared.
Starting her trade as an apprentice, Kirsty has seen a steady increase in female colleagues over her 12-year career.
"It's great to see,” said Kirsty. “But there’s still work to do. We still need more visibility and support for women."
Her advice for women considering a trade career is simple:
"Don’t let doubts get in your way, just start,” she said. “You won’t truly know what the job is like until you try it. For me, it’s been the best decision. You get to be physical, work alongside mates, and spend your day solving problems. My younger sister is also a sparky, and we both love the trade."
As industries push to attract more women into trades, Kirsty highlighted the importance of workplace policies that support women holistically.
Kirsty praised CIMIC Group's and UGL’s parental leave policy, noting that employees, regardless of gender, benefit from extended paid parental leave of up to 16 weeks for primary carers, 18 weeks of paid superannuation, and up to three weeks of partner leave1, but also acknowledged that there is still room for broader industry improvement.
"It’s about more than hiring women, it’s about understanding their needs and addressing the gaps that exist across the trades," said Kirsty.
This International Women’s Day and beyond, UGL celebrates the contributions of women like Kirsty, whose passion and expertise are helping shape the future of the trades and inspiring the next generation to take their first steps into the field.
Footnote:
1. CIMIC, CPB Contractors, Leighton Asia, Sedgman, UGL, Pacific Partnerships and EIC Activities. Benefits to Thiess Group employees are similar.