Meet InfraBuild’s Amandeep Kaur

International Women’s Day (8 March) is a day to celebrate the achievements of women – particularly those who, like Amandeep Kaur, blaze their own trail in a male-dominated sector.

Matching – and often surpassing – the performance of the male colleagues she works with is all in a day’s work for InfraBuild’s Amandeep Kaur.

Amandeep, who graduated as a structural engineer, joined InfraBuild as a Trainee Scheduler and took up the role of Detailer at the beginning of 2020, has cemented her place within the InfraBuild business on the strength of her talent and ambition. In doing so, she has proved that women can succeed in positions that have typically been the preserve of men.

“The quality of my work, my preparedness and my perseverance have helped me gather the faith of my peers and seniors.”

Amandeep Kaur, InfraBuild Reinforcing Detailer

She says she faced challenges getting into the industry at every stage, from being ignored for being a female to having her project decisions overruled. 

“But the very people who ignored me came running to my desk whenever they faced any technical issues in the project,” she says. “My technical prowess saw me work as a Deputy Lead for two projects and my decisions being implemented.” 

To coincide with International Women’s Day on 8 March, Amandeep explains what drives her and what unique set of skills she thinks she brings to InfraBuild and the broader construction sector.

What made you want to become a structural engineer?

I started my career with Bechtel (US EPC) and was exposed to an assortment of industrial structures in steel and RCC (reinforced cement concrete). This developed my appetite for the design of off-shore structures supporting enormous process equipment such as vertical and horizontal vessels, compressors and process critical pipes. 

What projects are you working on now and in what capacity?

I am presently responsible for 3D modelling, detailing and scheduling of Melbourne Metro Tunnel project using Revit software.

Describe InfraBuild’s work environment

There is gender equality in InfraBuild’s work culture and I feel I have been involved in critical and complicated projects with my inputs being acknowledged and appreciated. 

Do you have a role model or a mentor within the business (male or female?)

I was mentored by Rene Madrigal when I started my journey with Infrabuild. With my role change to a 3D Detailer, I am finding tremendous guidance from Scott Petersen (Detailing Lead) and the National Detailing Team. The work that I am accomplishing with his support is enhancing my skill-set by leaps and bounds.

What set of skills are important to help you succeed in your job?

Success is never individual – the most important skillset for success is teamwork. I am proud that my team is open to sharing technical details and ideas as and when required. Secondly, it is imperative to develop high proficiency in the software provided by the company and readily embrace any new software. Working with technology will prove to be a pillar of success for the company. 

Q: On International Women’s Day (8 March), what advice do you have for other women? 

Stagnant waters gather filth. So, strive for continuous development and never shy away from new learning opportunities. Inculcate quality in your work. This will speak volumes about your capabilities.