Maddison McCallum may be new to the industry, but she is already loving the perfect mix of learning new skills, making new friends and being outdoors.
New to the construction industry, Maddison has been working for a year and a half as a labourer in Melbourne for Winslow Infrastructure. Predominantly working on VicRoads and council jobs, Maddison works on road widenings.
“My job entails lots of things, laying conduits, working with plant (excavators, graders, rollers, possi tracks) constructing the layers of a road, installing drainage and maintaining site safety, along with many other things,” Maddison said.
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Maddison was inspired by her father Mick to join the construction industry, and she credits him for being a ‘major influence’ on her career path. “My dad has worked in the industry since before I was born and I was inspired to be hard working and motivated like my dad,” Maddison said.
“I chose this job as I love to be outside and be active all day, not just to sit in an office, my job is perfect for me.”
Maddison shared how her father is her biggest mentor both at work, and in her personal life.
“I am lucky enough to work with my dad onsite more often than not and he has taught me nearly everything I know,” she said.
“He shares knowledge in a way that I always understand.”
Maddison’s foreman, Matt, has also been a big part of her career so far.
“Matt has mentored me by giving me challenges and pushing me to reach my potential,” Maddison said.
“He gives me tasks to complete independently, and is always teaching me the safe way to do things on site.”
“Without these two people I would not be where I am today, and I am so grateful to have people believe in me like they do.”
In 2024, Maddison won the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) award Tradesperson/Apprentice of the year. She highlighted how being recognised for her efforts was the best part of the award.
“I felt extremely proud and happy that I won the award, I have worked so hard to get to where I am in the industry,” she said.
Creating a community
Aside from learning new skills and furthering her career, Maddison enjoys developing her friendships at work.
“I love establishing a community on site. The people are friendly and always happy to help, it makes work an enjoyable place,” she added.
Maddison’s favourite part of her job is being able to help other people on site and guide them.
“I always learn from others. When it is busy,
I enjoy helping others with their work and making it a team effort,” she said.
Maddison’s advice to other young tradies is to ask as many questions as you can.
“If something doesn’t seem right always speak up if you don’t feel comfortable around something on site,” she said.
Working towards eventually becoming a leading hand and a foreman, Maddison is determined to keep learning and gaining experience.
“I love to lead,” Maddison said.
“I feel I could really reach my full potential in a leadership role, so that is what I am working towards.”