How Mas Allied Health is Empowering Female Construction Leaders

Introduction

The construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation. The Lead the Way program, developed by Mas Allied Health professionals at Mas National and funded by Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ), is empowering women in leadership roles. This fully-funded program provides women with the necessary tools and support to succeed.

The Challenge

Women in construction often face unique challenges, including imposter syndrome and biases. For instance, 70% of women experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers, compared to 58% of men. Consequently, initiatives like Lead the Way are crucial in addressing these challenges.

The Solution

The Lead the Way program offers evidence-based interventions to empower women in leadership. It focuses on developing personal and professional strengths, fostering a supportive community, and teaching practical tools for managing stress. Moreover, the program includes six individual coaching sessions to support participants in achieving their goals. These sessions are guided by Allied Health practitioners who provide valuable insights on effective leadership.

The Results

The program has had a profound impact on its participants. Notably, Bojana Zivec, Estefania Larranaga Asis, and Nina Tropina have achieved significant success.

• Bojana Zivec: As a Senior Project Manager, Bojana benefited from the program’s industry-specific understanding and expert guidance. As a result, she discovered the joy of mentorship and began empowering her mentees.
• Estefania Larranaga Asis: The Lead the Way workshop boosted Estefania’s confidence and communication skills, particularly in male-dominated meetings. Furthermore, the coaching sessions provided her with personalised guidance and support.
• Nina Tropina: Project Engineer Nina Tropina developed negotiation skills and discovered her leadership style through the program. Subsequently, she learned to manage anxiety and now hopes to support other women in the industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Lead the Way program is a significant step towards creating a more equitable construction industry. By providing women with the necessary tools and support, Mas Allied Health is fostering a more inclusive and diverse industry. Ultimately, this initiative will lead to a more resilient industry, benefiting from the leadership, creativity, and resilience of women.