March 14, 2024
A career in industrial is many things. Collaborative. Dynamic. Rewarding.
So it’s no wonder more and more women are turning to the sector – either to kick off or switch up their careers.
We sat down with Jessica Topelson – Development Manager at Vaughan Constructions and WIN committee member – for her insights on how to get into industrial at every stage of your career.
But first, what kinds of roles are available in industrial?
‘Industrial’ is a banner term for numerous industries, roles and career pathways, like:
· Portfolio, property or asset management
· Capital works or construction · Analytics · Architecture and design · Marketing |
· Business administration or development
· Development management · Contract administration · Bid management · Sustainability |
Understanding all the pathways industrial includes may take some time. But one thing is clear: it’s integral to the economy. In other words, it’s only going to grow.
This makes industrial a secure, stable industry to forge your career. And with ample opportunity to ascend to leadership roles – plus the growing demand for women in the sector – now’s the perfect time to join.
‘The industrial sector continues to be one of the best-performing property sectors in Australia and globally,’ explains Jessica. ‘We’re seeing a lot more women choosing to come into industrial.’
So, whether you’re just starting your professional journey or want to make a mid-career switch, let’s explore how to make the move to industrial.
High School Students
Jessica believes that high school is the perfect time to build foundational industry knowledge, get hands-on experience – and explore tertiary pathways to help you, or the teenager in your life, reach employment goals.
‘It’s crucial to engage with girls from Year 10, as this is when they’re selecting their subjects – which will determine their tertiary pathways,’ explains Jessica.
‘At WIN, we work hard to educate girls in interactive ways about the rewarding positions they can aspire to within this dynamic industry.’
Here’s how to get started:
Not sure how? Jessica has you covered. ‘Check out WIN’s list of industry partners. Your careers adviser can help you draft a work experience application at one of those companies – and get it into the right person’s hands.’
University Students
Uni is the perfect launchpad for your career – with its mix of theoretical and practical learning. But there are several ways you can take that process one step further:
Jessica has one last tip for university students gearing up for a career in industrial.
‘Your job titles might change throughout your career, but some transferrable skills are always in demand. So always say yes to opportunities to become adept at communication, networking, negotiation, problem-solving and time management.’
Graduates
The transition from academia to the industrial workforce can be nerve-wracking. But with the right preparation, it can be exciting too.
To set yourself up for your first year out of study:
‘Our programs are built around structured career pathways,’ explains Jessica. ‘We incorporate lots of real-world experience with all the necessary training to help our graduates move up the career ladder in a considered, sustainable way.’
Mid-career Professionals
Got a few years’ experience in another career under your belt – and want to make a switch to industrial? Jessica says it might be easier than you think.
‘You may not have all the technical skills just yet,’ explains Jessica. ‘But your years of transferrable skills will give you an edge when breaking into industrial.’
To make the switch, Jessica recommends:
Want to know more about what it’s like to work in industrial? Connect with WIN on LinkedIn.