Claire Perham has been in the building industry most of her life.
'My father was a builder, and we bought and renovated several houses while I was growing up, so I was around construction from an early age,' Claire said.
'I was fascinated by the process and loved watching dad piece it all together.'
That fascination started a long career in the industry and led her to become the co-owner and General Manager of Axiom Construction Group, which she runs with her husband.
Claire has achieved a lot over the past 18 years.
'I have run a sole trading business, started multiple successful construction companies, consulted to failing construction companies making them profitable again, achieved my Diploma in Interior Design, earned a Certificate IV in Building and Construction, and attained my Low-Rise Builders License,' she said.
Claire also recently was named the Master Builders Queensland Women in Building Award winner.
Her passion for construction and seeing more women succeed in the industry also led Claire to become a mentor in the Queensland Government's new Women in Trades Mentoring Program, designed to support first and second-year female apprentices working in male dominated industries.
'Retention of apprentices is proving to be problematic, and I’d like to get to the bottom of why that is and what we can do to support our young people to push through any adversities they may face and become qualified in their chosen profession,' Claire said.
Led by Master Builders Queensland, the Emerging Women in Construction program offers mentoring, practical advice, webinars, training and events, and a dedicated online community to help women thrive in their careers.
'When I started in the construction industry, I wasn’t aware of any support groups or associations that supported women on their journey – I floundered around and figured it out on my own making many mistakes along the way,' she said.
'I want to help other women in the same situation as myself so they can have the support I never had.
'As an employer of apprentices and a parent of teenagers, I want the next generation to feel safe and supported going into a career that they love.'
When Claire was at school, working in a trade wasn't considered an option, so she went into administration and bookkeeping roles.
Today, Claire designs buildings, organises a construction team, purchases products and finishes, all while running a business and leading business development – proof that following your passion will lead to a rewarding career. She also employs a third-year female apprentice carpenter.
'In construction we are seeing a huge shift in attitudes and beliefs towards what women are capable of and the contribution we can bring to any team,' Claire said.
'In construction we are seeing a huge shift in attitudes and beliefs towards what women are capable of and the contribution we can bring to any team,' Claire said.
'There is a tremendous amount of support out there for women to do what they want to do and be who they want to be, including through programs like Emerging Women in Construction.
'I encourage women considering a career in construction to get started – now is the time to stand up and be counted.'
Learn more about Emerging Women in Construction.
Last updated 1 November 2024
