Women in Engineering

Caroline Su

Share what you actually do?

I am currently a quantity surveyor at Bettabuilt, which is part of the Brosnan Construction Group of companies. I am working closely with the project team and key project stakeholders managing the carpentry contract from project commencement through to completion.

My duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, assessing payment claims and variations, enforcing adherence to contractual terms and risk management.

I also manage relationships with clients, main contractors, and key project stakeholders, along with the project team to ensure all financial deliverable and outcomes are achieved.

What drew you to your profession?

I came to NZ just after the 2011 Christchurch Earthquake. The first time I went to the town centre I saw lots of damaged buildings and containers, hoardings and safety nets everywhere. Which potentially brought my interest in construction and thoughts of rebuilding Christchurch.

Is this a field many other women are working in?

There were not many, but now there are more! I remember when I first became an intern I was asked if I minded being the only female in the office. That was in 2017-ish. Now, in my office, we have nearly half females and the percentage is increasing!

How do you enjoy your work?

My day to day work is not just using the construction knowledge that I have learned, we also have a lot happening on site every minute. I enjoy problem solving every day, which brings the joy of success. Is there a specific project you have enjoyed doing?

I am quietly enjoying my current project: UC Psychology Staff Building Refurbishment. How do you deal with issues like climate change… and what needs to be considered for the future?

For construction, the climate change will possible affect the programme delay and materials shortages. We now have more & more eco/environment friendly materials, e.g site hoarding 100% made by rubbish etc.

Who has been the biggest influence in choosing your career?

My parents, they fully supported me when I wanted to study construction.

If not this career, what other one would you consider?

I would probably be doing accounting or a financial job.

Favourite book?

The Three-Body Problem, a science fiction novel written by the Chinese writer Liu Cixin. The title refers to the three-body problem in orbital mechanics. This book also has an English version. Highly recommended. How do you relax? continued from Page 1

I enjoy hiking and exploring the wildness in NZ.