Sustainability drives three women recognised in Women in Construction awards
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington encourages students to connect academic with industry experience. This was reflected in the experiences of three women from Te Wāhanga Waihanga–Hoahoa—Faculty of Architecture and Design Innovation who won at the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Excellence Awards in July.
Professor Robyn Phipps, Dean of the Faculty, was recognised with a highly commended in the Helen Tippett Award for her significant achievement in advancing and furthering the interests of women in the building, construction, and infrastructure industry. The referee for the award said, “She goes further than any other academic I have seen, when it comes to helping people.”
“It’s a huge honour to be recognised for my work,” said Professor Phipps. “As my supervisor for my thesis when I studied here, Helen was very influential on my career. In my mentoring of students I use many Helen-isms, none more often than ‘The answer is no, unless you ask.’ This is about encouraging women to put their hand up and ask for that role, or that promotion—create your own opportunities.”
Also recognised at the awards were Architecture PhD candidate Emily Newmarch and Bachelor of Building Science student Paige Leota, both of whom focus on building sustainability within their study.
Emily, who received the Rising Star—Office award has completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Te Herenga Waka, and is now under examination for her Doctorate, while working as a low carbon design specialist at Warren and Mahoney.
Emily’s thesis explores how we can measure, design, and value architecture for a low carbon future, connecting the construction industry and academic knowledge. The citation from her referee reflected, “One of the most impressive things about Emily is her ability to traverse from the academic worlds to the commercial. She is fundamentally changing practice for the better.”
The Rising Star—Office award recognises Emily for her ability to proactively inspire others, and her demonstration of the initiative and dedication of a future leader of the industry.
Paige Leota, who is completing a Bachelor of Building Science majoring in project management and sustainable engineering systems, was one of two undergraduates recognised with a Student Excellence Award at the ceremony. This category celebrates female students who demonstrate a high level of potential and commitment within the construction, building, or infrastructure industries.
Paige was recognised in the citation for her adaptability and critical thinking, and her willingness to take on new challenges. She said, “Accepting a NAWIC award has tangibly affirmed to me that I am pursuing the right career pathway, and is acknowledgement of my efforts so far. I came away from the evening feeling so inspired by the incredible legacies that women are building across Aotearoa, while being reminded of the significant work that is yet to be done.”
While continuing her study, Paige is working as a cadet quantity surveyor with McConnell Dowell.
Professor Phipps said, “We are proud to be the only university in Aotearoa to offer a Bachelor of Building Science—it is well regarded by industry as an excellent degree to pursue if you want to rise to the top in that industry. We are also very proud of the sustainability focus we have across our degrees and the outstanding achievements of our students.
“Both Paige and Emily are making huge contributions to the built environment, and have phenomenal futures ahead of them. They are excellent students who are the future of sustainable solutions in Aotearoa.”
Te Herenga Waka has a long history with NAWIC. While NAWIC is an international organisation, the opening of the Aotearoa chapter was led by Professor Helen Tippett, who at the time worked for Victoria University of Wellington. Architecture alumni Gina Jones, and Stacey Mendonça were not only instrumental in setting it up, but continue to be involved over 40 years on.