Just four years ago, Kelly was working in an office. She’s since become the first woman in the region to qualify as a dozer operator, as well as being experienced with an Articulated Dump Truck (ADT) and roller.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
I love being outside, especially being with horses. I have horses of my own and practice natural horsemanship. If I didn’t have to work, I’d open a centre for disabled children and work with therapy horses.
How did you get into the construction industry?
I used to work in a call centre, managing and coaching new recruits. I found it monotonous and non-stop (I was answering emails at night), so I decided it wasn’t for me.
Katie Harper encouraged me to try out site work at McAuliffe, and I haven’t looked back – best decision I ever made.
What do you like most about your job?
There is no weekend work, though the day starts early and – in summer especially – the working day may be long, lasting until 6pm.
I love being outdoors, and I like seeing the daylight and noticing the change in seasons.
On the bulldozer, there is always something to do. I like keeping busy, and I like that I am doing my own thing, not being watched over the shoulder!
Do you have any tips for women considering a career in the industry?
Just go for it. What have you got to lose? I never had any experience of being on a site, so I had no idea what it entailed.
In my experience, it is not a sexist industry. Quite the opposite. The men I work with are helpful and I feel encouraged by my peers.
