In the construction industry, female tradespeople account for less than 3 per cent* of employees. Narellan Pools is bucking the trend with a workforce where women are represented across the integrated business from management to truck drivers and female led franchises; Narellan is investing in women and it’s paying dividends.
As a prime example, Narellan’s manufacturing plant has increased six-fold in the last 12 months; the percentage of women working in the manufacturing plant has grown from 2 per dent to 11 per cent of overall manufacturing workforce. Many of the women have been identified as future team leaders with potential for management roles.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, check out this showcase of some of the women across the network.
Debb Meyer, Narellan Pools co-owner
“In 2020, it’s paramount every business is invested in gender equality and promoting women into leadership positions on merit and skill. However, in traditionally male dominated industries, like pool, building and manufacturing, the challenge can sometimes feel insurmountable.
“As Narellan Pools co-owner with my husband Chris, I have been on a relentless pursuit over the last decade, to see our male dominated industry turned on its head and to capitalize on the incredible talents of women from the board room, global markets, our franchisees to the factory floor.
“We are passionate and committed about contributing to the communities we operate in locally, nationally and globally. Our philanthropic purpose centres around a focus on women including supporting Project Strive, which seeks to provide valuable life-skills, education and support to girls aged 12-16 in Warwick Farm – one of the most disadvantaged communities in Australia.
“In celebration of International Women’s Day, we are proud to showcase some of the women across our network.”
Dayle Casey, 2019 Narellan Pools International Woman of the Year
What does being the 2019 Narellan Pools Woman of the Year mean to you?
“When I was awarded Narellan Pools Woman of the Year 2019, I was absolutely honoured…. One of the things I said in my speech is that I’ve got two girls and a boy. They are lucky to be raised in this environment and see how women can empower women.”
What are your thoughts on the industry’s perception of women?
“Women in this industry are starting to change the perceptions and the labels we’ve been given. We’ve learnt a lot, and we’re getting the opportunity to know more. I’ve come a long way because I’ve had to – I want to know about pools, and talk the talk, because it’s better for our business!”
What does #EachforEqual mean to you?
“For me, it just means changing the world, changing mindsets and creating an equal world. #EachforEqual also means that we create a world for my daughter, so she’s going to be treated like everybody else.”
Wendy Donaldson, franchise chief operations officer
What does #EachforEqual mean to you?
“Equality to me means that no matter what your background is, everybody is given the same opportunities. For me, #EachforEqual is about trusting in your own ability to find your place in the world, and also a responsibility for those of us that have secured a place and using our position to provide opportunities for others that may not have had the same access.”
Teena McIlveen, assistant operations facility manager
What does #EachforEqual mean to you?
“I am a strong advocate for #EachforEqual. It shouldn’t matter what gender you are. It’s about how we contribute to one another, our work environment and life. To women considering a career in manufacturing: give it a go. If you like being hands on, understanding how a product is made and have a high level of attention for detail, there are pathways and opportunities that can lead to a career.”
*https://www.nawic.com.au/NAWIC/eflash/CSQ2531_Women_in_Construction_2.pdf