International Women’s Day is about recognising women who are not only succeeding in their industries, but actively shaping the next generation of Australia’s building and construction sector.
Women only account for 13.6% of Australia’s building and construction industry workforce. On the tools, women represent just 3.1% of trades workers onsite (Master Builders Australia, 2024). There is real progress still to be made, and Bardie Somerville (@bards.builds), imar’s brand ambassador, is one of the women helping lead that change.
A qualified carpenter turned site manager, Bardie has built her career in construction through skill, resilience and a clear sense of purpose. Her advocacy for improved conditions for women in trades is grounded in years of hands-on experience across worksites in Australia, where precision, teamwork and confidence matter every day.
When asked what first inspired her to pursue a career in construction, Bardie shares:
“I honestly never thought I would pursue a career in construction, but when I first started in the industry, I was so fascinated by what was happening onsite that I just wanted to keep learning more and more”.
For Bardie, growth in the industry has come from backing herself, staying curious and continuing to learn – especially in the early years. When reflecting on what she would tell herself as an apprentice starting out, her advice is simple but powerful:
“If I were an apprentice again, I would tell myself that it’s okay to be yourself, and it’s okay not to have it all figured out, and I would push myself to keep going, keep showing up, and trust that it will get better”
Women are playing an increasingly visible and influential role across construction sites, leadership teams and industry conversations. It is a shift that is strengthening the sector and challenging outdated perceptions.
Women in Construction Week is a reminder that progress is built over time. Representation matters, and women in trades are leading, innovating and raising the standards across the industry.
At imar, we are proud to work alongside Bardie as our brand ambassador. She represents excellence in her craft and a commitment to shaping a stronger, more inclusive future for construction in Australia.
Because meaningful change isn’t announced, it is built.
