International Women’s Day is a global moment to recognise the achievements and contributions of women across industries and communities.
At Construction Sciences, we believe that creating pathways into the construction and materials testing industries is essential to building a stronger, more diverse workforce. Programs that support students entering the industry early play an important role in developing future technical expertise. One example is Hine Nahona Ponga, a technician at our Wollongong Laboratory.
Hine joined Construction Sciences two years ago as a school-based trainee at the age of 16 while attending Illawarra Sports High School. During this time, she completed a Certificate III in Laboratory Skills, balancing classroom learning with hands-on industry experience. After graduating from school, Hine transitioned into a full-time technician role with Construction Sciences and is now continuing her professional development through a Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques.
Hine said the traineeship provided a valuable opportunity to gain experience and confidence early in her career.
“Starting in the industry while still at school gave me a head start. You have support from your school, the workplace and training providers, and you learn a lot very quickly. Completing my Cert III strengthened my knowledge around my work and safety, and I’m looking forward to learning even more as I progress through my Cert IV.”
Hine was the first female to participate in the Wollongong laboratory’s school-based traineeship program. Her Laboratory Manager, Joe Bakewell, continues to support young people entering the industry and has since welcomed additional trainees to the team. Programs like these provide practical career pathways and help develop the next generation of skilled laboratory technicians supporting infrastructure and construction projects across Australia.
Picture by Robert Peet © Illawarra Mercury/ACM
