Claudia Macri is a Site Engineer at Burton Contractors and is contributing to projects shaping the future of Sydney. Joining the organisation in December 2022, Claudia started working at the Denmark Link Road Project in Riverstone as an Undergraduate, juggling her university commitments while gaining valuable experience at a site level. Since then, Claudia has steadily impressed and was recently promoted to the role of Site Engineer, where she is honing her leadership skills while on the Hezlett, Withers, and Barry Road Project. She does all this while continuing to complete her Bachelor of Civil Engineering.
We sat down with Claudia for a quick Q&A about her career journey, her experiences on site, and what it takes to excel as a civil engineer.
Why did you embark on a career in civil engineering?
I’ve always been interested in the process of how infrastructure is built and staged to develop communities. Civil engineering seemed like a perfect blend of creativity and practical problem-solving, which drew me in from the start. I wanted a career where I would be constantly challenged and pushed to grow. Working on-site allows me to see the direct results of my work every day, which is incredibly rewarding.
What previous projects have you worked on and what are your current responsibilities on site?
I’ve worked on Silverdale Road – Stage 2 Project and Denmark Link Road Project. In brief, my current responsibilities involve planning and overseeing on-site construction activities, quality assurance, cost analysis and subcontractor engagement.
What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?
What I enjoy most about being a civil engineer is seeing ideas and plans turn into reality. I love that every project is unique and comes with its own challenges, pushing me to think critically and adapt. Being on-site is especially rewarding because I get to see progress firsthand. I also enjoy collaborating with the team around me and learning from experienced professionals who help me grow every day.
What skills and attributes do you think are important to make a successful civil engineer?
To be a successful civil engineer, I believe a combination of technical skills and personal attributes is key. Strong problem-solving skills are essential because engineering often requires creative solutions to complex challenges. Attention to detail is also crucial, as even small oversights can have significant impacts on a project. Communication skills are important for collaborating with teams and stakeholders, and leadership is necessary for guiding teams and making critical decisions on-site. Additionally, adaptability and the ability to work under pressure are vital in a field where projects can change quickly.
What advice would you give to those considering a career in construction?
My advice would be to stay curious, proactive, and open to learning. Gaining hands-on experience to understand how things work on-site is also important, and equally, don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek mentorship. Strong communication and teamwork skills are key as construction is all about collaboration.
How important is it that more women take up roles in the construction industry?
It’s incredibly important for more women to join the construction industry. Diversity brings fresh perspectives and new ideas. Having more women in these roles also helps break down stereotypes and encourages future generations to see construction as an inclusive field. It’s not just about equality, it’s about making the industry stronger and more adaptable by tapping into the full potential of all talent.
Where do you see your career taking you in the future?
In the future, I see myself taking on more leadership roles, perhaps as a project manager or in senior management, where I can oversee large-scale projects. I’m also passionate about mentoring and inspiring the next generation of engineers, especially women in the field. Ultimately, I hope to continue growing both professionally and personally, contributing to impactful projects and helping to shape the future of construction.
