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Emma McCaughey - A RPEQ profile
Building bridges -- NAWIC's Women on Tools leading Queensland's construction revolution
(Occasionally, the Board highlights a RPEQ who is leading or involved in exciting projects. In this news article, we highlight RPEQ Emma McCaughey, Queensland Chapter President of the National Association of Women in Construction. Do you know a RPEQ whose work you think the Board should highlight? If so, please reach out.)
In the bustling world of construction, where cranes paint the skyline, and plans come to life brick by brick, voices like Emma McCaughey’s are reshaping the narrative. As the Chapter President of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Queensland, Emma is more than a leader; she is a storyteller, a changemaker and a woman driven by purpose. Her story is woven into the fabric of NAWIC’s Women on Tools (WoT) initiative, which seeks to achieve an ambitious yet vital goal of 11% female participation in frontline construction roles across Queensland state government projects.
Remembering the foundations
Like many young women stepping into their fields, Emma's early days in construction and engineering were marked by challenges. “I was often the only woman in the room”, she recalls. But it was in those moments of solitude that Emma found her strength; with a background as a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) and a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) in civil engineering, she methodically built her expertise, layer by layer, often pushing past barriers others didn’t even see.
Today, Emma uses her experiences to inspire the next generation. She remembers the mentors and allies who believed in her potential and recognised the power of creating these same opportunities for others.
Understanding the present and why the 11% strategy matters
At its heart, the 11% strategy transcends mere statistics. It aims to significantly increase the representation of women in trades, with the ambitious goal of achieving 30% women in the industry, which is the recognised tipping point for cultural change in the construction industry in the coming years and ultimately reaching gender neutrality in the decades ahead. This initiative addresses the stark gender disparity in Queensland's construction workforce.
Emma highlights that “Queensland construction boom brings opportunities, but without inclusion, we miss out on the diverse perspectives and talents needed to truly thrive.” Through programs targeting apprenticeships, para-professional pathways and workplace culture shifts, NAWIC is laying the foundation for a future where women see construction as a possibility and a space where they belong.
Emma quickly points out the personal side of this initiative: “Every time we reach a woman who thought this industry wasn’t for her, we're changing lives. It's not just about building projects; it's about building people and skills.”
Applying insights leadership in action
Emma’s leadership extends beyond NAWIC's strategic goals; for her, inclusion is deeply personal. She actively champions NAWIC's Male Allies Program, recognising that genuine cultural change requires the entire industry to evolve.Women don’t need to be convinced of their value,” she asserts. “But when male colleagues champion their skills and contributions, the impact is amplified.” “
Women don’t need to be convinced of their value.
But when male colleagues champion their skills and contributions, the impact is amplified.
Balancing the personal and professional
Behind Emma’s leadership lies the reality of balancing work and family life. As a mother of two, she is candid about women's pressures in demanding roles. “There are moments I doubted myself, but I realised that flexibility and resilience aren’t just skills; they are lifelines”, she says.
Emma's vulnerability resonates with many women who juggle similar responsibilities. Her story reminds us that being a leader isn’t about having all the answers; it's about showing up, learning, adapting and supporting.
Redefining the industry
Over the past five years, the WoT initiative has become a symbol of hope and progress. Its ripple effects are seen in every new apprentice, every cultural shift in a workplace and every male ally stepping up to champion diversity.
As the custodian of NAWIC, Emma is quick to deflect praise, pointing instead to the collective effort. “This isn’t my success story; it's ours. Every person who believes in this mission is helping redefine what's possible in our industry. It’s a team effort that drives this change and targets continuously.”
Members of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)
Creating the future
Emma’s vision for the future is as bold as the infrastructures she once helped build. “I want my daughters and every young girl to see an industry where they belong, not as an exception but as a norm.”
Her message to RPEQs is heartfelt, “Whether you're in construction, supporting someone who is, or simply looking to make a difference, know that your voice matters. Together, we're building a future where everyone thrives.”
NAWIC QLD’s ambitious goal of achieving 11% women in trades and 25% overall female participation across the construction industry forms the cornerstone of its mission. Key objectives drive this vision, including attracting and retaining women in apprenticeships, developing pathways into professional careers and fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion.
In 2024, NAWIC QLD delivered on its motto “More in 24” with remarkable achievements.
2024 NAWIC Annual Report
The invitation
Emma's journey is not just hers; it's all of ours to share, learn from, and build upon. The 11% strategy for women in trades is a call to action but also a call to reflect. What role will you play in this story? Will you champion diversity in your workplace? Mentor someone with potential or on their journey? Or spark a conversation that opens minds.
As NAWIC approaches its 30th anniversary, its achievements reflect not just progress, but a movement driven by passion and purpose.
This isn’t just about numbers or milestones; it's about people. It's about every woman who sees herself in this industry and every person who supports her.
Together, we're building a future that benefits everyone. We hope for a gender-neutral world in the construction industry, where support, fairness, and equality provide the cultural change required for associations like NAWIC to no longer exist.
Emma's story is a testament to resilience, grit and the power of connection. Together, let’s not just build structures but a legacy of equity and inclusion, one that inspires generations to come.
If you would like further information about the National Association of Women in Construction or to show your support, reach out to:
Phone: 1800 767 977
Email: admin@nawic.com.au