Recognising the work of women in male-dominated industries

Working at Bell Bay Aluminium where just 15 per cent of the 580 employees are female, and at a Rio Tinto mine in Western Australia before that, she has become used to being in male-dominated environments and understands the challenges it presents.

But she also knew she was not a lone voice, with other women facing similar circumstances elsewhere.

The advice and support of other women in the industry was crucial to her building confidence.

She said female mentors have been an integral part of her career, and credited some of her earlier female supervisors as role models.

"You feel like you you can aspire to be something ... you feel comfortable to take that leap," Ms Shepherd said.

Now she has taken that step and become a mentor for other women in the industry.

Last week's Women in Resources Tasmania Awards ceremony recognised the role of women in the resources, mining and manufacturing sectors.

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Northern Tasmania's Bell Bay Aluminum had four women recognised at the awards, with Ms Shepherd, Kylie Sherriff, Amby Ramasubramanian all winning awards and Hayley Williams being high commended in her category.

The 2021 Winner of the Exceptional Woman in Tasmanian Resources Award, Ms Shepherd was honoured to be recognised for her work in the industry and believes the awards offer a valuable incentive for other women in the sector.

"If they see other women in the industry gaining recognition, they think 'that could be me' and there's no reason it couldn't be," she said.

The annual awards are coordinated by the Tasmanian Minerals, Manufacturing and Energy Council in conjunction with the AusIMM Women in Mining Network Tasmania to create awareness of the inspirational women working in resources, mining and manufacturing and encourage other women to pursue careers in these Tasmanian industries.

Self-care is one of Ms Shepherd's 'non-negotiables' and she feels that other women should prioritise self-love and self-care in their own lives.

In her current role as Reconstruction Crew Leader, Ms Shepherd is the first woman to work in the position in 25 years and has enjoyed leading the way.

Her advice for other women who are considering a career in a non-traditional industry such as mining or resources, is to "give it a go".

"You've got nothing to lose because if it's not for you that's okay," she said.

"If it is, you've got an amazing career and support network around you that's willing to take you in leaps and bounds."

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