Mandi’s Journey in Construction: Breaking Ground In More Ways Than One

When I started studying civil engineering at university, I didn’t have a grand plan for where it would take me. I wasn’t the type of person who had always dreamed of being an engineer, but I liked problem-solving, and I knew engineering was a career that could open doors. What I didn’t realise back then was just how many different directions civil construction could take me, and how much I would enjoy exploring them.

My first role was on the contractor side of the industry. A friend referred me to a civil construction company that specialised in subdivisions, and I thought, “why not give it a go?” It was fast-paced, hands-on, and there was a real sense of teamwork. I quickly learned what it takes to deliver a project on the ground, from the long days, coordination of crews, to the unexpected problems that come up and have to be solved quickly.

After a few years, I decided it was time to try something different. I wanted to understand the other side of the industry. That’s when I moved into consulting, still with a focus for civil subdivision projects. Consulting has so far given me a new perspective, and it has been interesting switching off the ‘contractor brain’ and switching on the ‘consultants brain’. Instead of pricing variations to submit for additional works I’m now the one assessing them.

One thing I’ve come to really value is just how many pathways exist within civil construction. You can be on-site making things happen, behind a desk planning and designing, or somewhere in between, managing people and projects. There’s no one “right” way to have a career in this field, but it’s given me a much deeper appreciation for the entire lifecycle of a project.

I recently drove through the first project I ever worked on as a site engineer. At the time, it was just dirt, pipes, and long days on site. But now I can see it all come together, with new houses, adjoining subdivisions, shops, parks, etc. It was so interesting to see something I had worked on become a functional and growing community. 

Civil construction can be demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Because what we do is more than just moving earth or laying pipes. Our work shapes real communities, creating the streets people walk on, the parks children play in, and the homes where families will grow. There’s something satisfying about knowing that the projects we contribute to aren’t just lines on a plan, but living, breathing spaces where people will build their lives and memories.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, and you’d like to work with Mandi and the rest of our amazing construction team, contact us at careers@theoriongroup.au