KATHERINE DODD
General Manager and Principal Consultant at MRA Consulting Group
WMRR NSW Branch Vice President
What does International Women's Day (IWD) mean to you?
It is a day to enjoy the opportunities I have been afforded by past generations who have worked for equal rights and opportunity. More importantly, to step back and see that I am working in an organisation and environment with equal rights and where I see a need for change, I am working toward it.
What challenges (if any) did you face as a woman entering the industry? How did you address them?
Coming into waste and resource recovery through the environmental consulting sector I have been fortunate to find a large number of amazing men and women who supported my development. I have also found the broader industry very welcoming to growing the number of women in this industry sector.
How can we encourage future female leaders both generally and within WARR?
I believe the number of female leaders in the WARR sector will grow as the complexity of our sector is recognised and, therefore, more women are attracted to join the sector. This recognition will showcase the variety of skill sets including but not limited to scientists, engineers, lawyers, economists, stakeholder relations, which can contribute to the positive environmental impact of landfill diversion, recycling, remanufacturing, upstream system change, I could go on…
What advice would you offer a young woman considering a career in WARR?
Firstly, do it. It is the most interesting and rewarding sector to be a part of. Secondly, reach out to an industry professional on LinkedIn and ask to have a coffee. I believe whenever possible it’s important to have these one-on-one conversations to hear the experience of others and see if that story strikes a cord and gets you excited.
Connect with Katherine.
