Western Sydney University partners with Tomorrow's Women in Construction to inspire future industry leaders

Western Sydney University has become the first university partner of Tomorrow's Women in Construction (TWIC), a volunteer-led initiative encouraging young girls to explore careers in the construction and infrastructure sector.

The partnership aims to raise awareness of the wide range of careers available across the construction sector – from planning and design to engineering, project management and construction – including roles supporting major infrastructure projects transforming Western Sydney.

The University's Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science is proud to support the launch of TWIC’s ‘Be That Girl’ in construction campaign, which challenges misconceptions and showcases the career opportunities in construction and infrastructure for women.

As part of the initiative, Year 10 students will have the opportunity to participate in the TWIC 2026 Work Experience Program, gaining firsthand experience as part of a week-long, supported placement with a leading construction organisation.

Applications for the program are now open and close on 16 August 2026, with placements taking place from September.

Distinguished Professor Brian Falzon, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, said the partnership reflects the University’s commitment to increasing female participation across STEM, design and the built environment.

“Tomorrow's Women in Construction is an exciting initiative that aligns closely with our Faculty’s commitment to empowering women in STEM and creating pathways into industries that are shaping our region,” said Professor Falzon.

“We’re delighted to support hands-on learning opportunities that connect high school students with leading organisations across the sector, helping them build confidence, meet mentors and explore further studies and career opportunities.”

Founded by women working across architecture, engineering, project management and construction, TWIC is challenging misconceptions by connecting high school girls with more female leaders from across the industry.

Through the campaign, students can explore career stories, take a career quiz, hear directly from industry professionals and participate in structured work experience placements with construction and infrastructure organisations.

The initiative comes at a time when Australia's construction industry is facing growing demand for skilled workers.

Katharina Kister, co-founder of TWIC, and an architect and project manager, said the campaign’s message was simple, ‘You can't be what you can't see’.

“Every year, thousands of girls rule out careers in construction, engineering and the built environment long before they understand what those careers actually involve. Through hands-on experience and connecting young women to female mentors in the industry, Tomorrow's Women in Construction (TWIC) is trying to change that,” said Katharina.

The partnership is part of Western Sydney University's broader commitment to increasing participation for women in STEM and related industries. Across the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, this includes initiatives such as the Women of Wisdom (WoW) program, founded by Professor Olivia Mirza and co-founded by Sepani Senaratne, Professor Samanthika Liyanapathirana and Dr Helen Wu.

To find out more information about TWIC and the 2026 Work Experience Program, please visit the TWIC webpage.

ENDS.

24 July 2026
Media Unit