Breaking Barriers in Steel—Wrap-Up

It’s a wrap!

On 14 August 2024, Steel Chicks brought together women from across the steel industry for our Breaking Barriers in Steel panel event—an evening of honest conversations, shared experiences, and meaningful connections.

The event featured four accomplished women who have each forged successful careers in the industry while navigating the challenges that still exist for women in steel. Their stories highlighted not only the barriers they have overcome but also the opportunities that are created when women are supported to thrive. Our panellists included:

• Trisha Riddell – Chief Executive Officer, Doogood Australia

• Beth Wemyss – Contracts Manager, Structural Challenge

• Shae McGill – Market Development Lead, Orrcon Steel

• Maddie Dharmapala – Customer Relationship Manager, Calibre Steel

The panellists shared their career journeys, reflected on the importance of representation, and discussed how individuals and organisations can help build a more inclusive and welcoming steel industry.

The discussion sparked thoughtful conversations around leadership, resilience, and creating workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. While every panellist's experience was unique, several key messages resonated throughout the evening.

• Surround yourself with the right people. Having mentors, advocates, and supportive colleagues can make all the difference throughout your career.

• Invest in genuine relationships. Building meaningful professional connections benefits not only your own career but also strengthens businesses and the wider industry.

• Stay authentic. Success doesn't come from trying to fit someone else's mould. Being yourself is one of the greatest strengths you can bring to the workplace.

These insights reflected the very heart of Steel Chicks' mission—to empower women to enter, remain, and progress within the steel industry through connection, support, and opportunity.

Beyond the conversations on stage, the event created valuable networking opportunities for attendees from across the industry. It was encouraging to see professionals from different organisations come together to share experiences, build new connections, and continue conversations long after the panel concluded.

Events like Breaking Barriers in Steel demonstrate the importance of creating spaces where women can learn from one another, celebrate achievements, and openly discuss both the challenges and opportunities within our industry.

A sincere thank you to our outstanding panellists—Trisha Riddell, Beth Wemyss, Shae McGill, and Maddie Dharmapala—for generously sharing their experiences, wisdom, and advice. Thank you also to everyone who attended and contributed to such an engaging and supportive evening. Your enthusiasm and willingness to connect continue to strengthen the Steel Chicks community, and together, we're breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and shaping a stronger, more inclusive future for the Australian steel industry.

You can view pics of the event in our gallery.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

•