Uniq virtual career advisory service for high schools expands into the Territory

The event, held on 1 April, brought together leaders from the education sector, construction industry, and government to celebrate the launch of UNIQ You’s efforts to inspire and guide young women into non-traditional career pathways, including construction and civil infrastructure.

UNIQ You CEO Val Ridley emphasised the importance of expanding the initiative into the Top End, where opportunities for women in industries like construction remain largely untapped.

“Our partnership with BMD is the key to opening doors for more young women in Darwin to explore dynamic careers they may never have previously considered. “We are thrilled to have BMD’s support as we continue breaking down barriers for women and creating real opportunities for their futures.”

BMD Executive General Manager Constructions Jeff Gallus said industry leaders play a critical role in fostering diversity and inclusivity in the workforce.

“Our partnership with UNIQ You represents the way we live in our values and purpose of powering futures and creating legacies to proudly support the work of UNIQ You into the Territory.

“BMD has been delivering critical infrastructure in the Territory for almost three decades. We have some sensational role models contributing to the build of defence bases in Tindal, marine infrastructure in the Darwin Ship Lift and providing affordable housing across the region through urban development.

“We believe in the benefits of diverse teams in problem solving and by working together with the education sector, we can empower the next generation of female leaders in construction.”

Chief Executive Officer of Department of Logistics and Infrastructure Louise McCormick praised the initiative for its contribution to economic development and social progress.

 “The expansion of UNIQ You into the Northern Territory is an exciting step toward building a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

“This initiative not only aligns with our goals for economic growth but also strengthens our commitment to gender equity.

“We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our local industries and the young women who will benefit from it.”

Launched in November 2021, UNIQ You currently has nearly 100 female advisors from 17 corporate partners from across Australia who volunteer their time to provide industry insights and advice to high school girls from over 63 registered high schools located throughout Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia and now Northern Territory.

The launch event marks the beginning of UNIQ You’s journey in the Northern Territory, where it aims to collaborate with schools and local employers to provide mentorship and career opportunities for young women interested in pursuing non-traditional careers, including those in construction, engineering, and related fields.

Above image caption: L-R: Jeff Gallus (BMD Executive General Manager - Constructions); Louise McCormick (Department of Logistics and Infrastructure Chief Executive Officer); Val Ridley (UNIQ You CEO); Laurie Zio (CLP Member for Fannie Bay); Matt Lee (UNIQ You Chair); Scott Power (BMD CEO)

About UNIQ You

UNIQ You is a not-for-profit organisation that partners with industries to inspire and support young women to explore careers in traditionally male-dominated fields. Through mentorship, education, and direct engagement with industries, UNIQ You seeks to create pathways for female students to achieve long-term career success.

About BMD

BMD is Australia’s leading integrated engineering, construction and urban development business, with foundations built on the family values that underpin our unique, collaborative approach.

Driven by a purpose of powering futures and creating enduring legacies through a commitment to collaboration, BMD is delivering infrastructure solutions that connect and transform communities.

With a proud history beginning in Australia in 1979, BMD now employs 2,300 people throughout Australia, the Philippines and United Kingdom.