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Radmila Desic

Name:

Radmila Desic

Age:

35

Location:

Brisbane, Queensland

Current job title:

Industry Engagement Officer

Qualifications:

Certificate 3 in Carpentry & Joiner

Certificate 4 in Frontline Management

Certificate 4 in Trainer & Assessor

Past experience

Involved in the building and construction industry for over 15 years. Most of my onsite experiences have been empowering. They gave me common sense, self-confidence, the skills to better problem-solve, and the underpinning knowledge and practical skills to handle most construction-related work. If I have learned one thing onsite it is that strength isn’t everything; you can achieve anything if you learn how to do it properly and condition yourself to execute the task.

How did you get started?

I started by doing an 'access course' which allowed me to try all the general trades and by passing the general Certificate 1 in General Construction course I was offered an apprenticeship in any trade of my choice.

Greatest professional achievement

Becoming the first Queensland Chapter President of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) with a trade background.

Challenges the job presents

Work/life balance. I have an eight year old daughter and a nine month old daughter, so working full-time requires me to prioritise between work and family.

What you like most about your job

I have been given the opportunity to project manage a strategy to increase female participation in the building and construction industry. This is something I am extremely passionate about so it is easy for me to love my work and push through the barriers to make it happen. I love to be challenged.

Typical day at work

Meeting with industry representatives, reviewing training packages, promoting the industry to women and providing technical advice during audits of construction training providers.

Advice for other women

Don’t take things personally and do not let others tell you what you can not do; anything is possible if your heart wants it.

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