Kayla Bolton was presented with the coveted QBCC 2023 Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) scholarship at a recent National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) event.
Kayla, a General Manager of Project Delivery at not-for-profit organisation Uniting Care, said she was delighted her intuition served her right.
“When I was told I was the winner of the scholarship, I could not believe it at first as I had already applied four times before … But when I was writing the content for the submission, I felt I was finally ready,” Kayla said.
“I am very grateful for the QBCC and NAWIC teaming up for this sponsorship, especially considering I work in a not-for-profit organisation.
“I haven’t had access to a board environment, taking part in the course will catapult me into the right environment where opportunities are available.”
QBCC Interim CEO and Commissioner, Angela Masson, said the AICD scholarship would provide Kayla with the perfect opportunity to progress her leadership and boardroom skills.
“We know how important it is to have women represented in the building and construction industry and we need to offer them support and encouragement along the way,” Angela said.
“Greater diversity supports a move toward a more sustainable workforce with gender being just one aspect of diversity the industry is embracing.”
This is the fifth year the QBCC has sponsored this scholarship which will provide Kayla with a 12-month membership to the AICD and the opportunity to undertake a company directors’ course.
Kayla’s submission stood out because of her efforts to improve the work environment for staff, especially parents.
Her initiatives include promoting women on the project management team, creating a flexible environment which allows staff to do the school drop off and pick up, as well as a safe and inclusive workplace for pregnant women and mums returning to work after parental leave.
“We currently have a pregnant staff member who will be able to transition back to work after parental leave knowing that she has a private room where she can retreat to when needed,” Kayla said.
“This will allow her to continue her early motherhood journey while still being part of the team.”
Kayla has dedicated her career to social infrastructure working on hospitals for sick children and homes for the elderly.
“I have worked hard to have such a fulfilling and purposeful career, however, there are so many rewarding roles in the construction industry,” Kayla said.
“I would recommend any woman who is presented with an opportunity in the industry, especially a leadership role, to give it a go.”
Kayla, who has two children, Estelle, 4, and Joseph, 5, said she had an incredible support network which included grandparents and her husband.
“My husband Peter who also works full-time is very supportive of me. His encouragement has certainly helped me to thrive in my career."