What was meant to be a temporary job has turned into a fulfilling career path for Kaitlyn Newsome.
Kaitlyn’s civil construction career began when she was working for a labour hire company supplying staff to HEB Construction. She decided she’d like to give the trade a go herself.
Kaitlyn, who has also worked as a prison officer, has been with HEB Construction in Waikato since August 2019, working in several different roles. She completed her New Zealand Certificate in Infrastructure Works (Level 3) and, without hesitation, enrolled in the New Zealand Certificate – New Zealand Apprenticeship in Infrastructure Works (Civil) (Level 4) – Road Maintenance Strand, which she completed in December 2024.
But Kaitlyn, who won the Waikato region CCNZ Apprentice of the Year last year, isn’t done with her training yet. She has now enrolled in the New Zealand Diploma in Civil Engineering.
That’s quite a shift in thinking from when she started at HEB. “When I first started, I didn’t see myself in the job for more than six months. I intended to use this industry as a stepping stone until I secured another job in an entirely different line of work.
“That has changed massively. I’m still here six years later and have achieved way more than I thought I ever could. I’ve become really passionate about my career within HEB.
“When I started, I expected to find it hard coming into such a male-dominated field, but I quickly realised it didn’t matter if I was female. I was given the same opportunities as everyone else and was 100% supported when I showed interest in becoming a machine operator.
“I’m now a full-time grader driver, and I’m studying for my diploma in Civil engineering.”
Two of the things Kaitlyn enjoys most about her work are the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a job and working in a close-knit team. “It’s extremely fulfilling knowing each day that my workmates have my back and that we’re there to support one another, day in, day out.
“I also love that there are opportunities for career progression, which can lead you to a whole bunch of different avenues within the industry.”
Kaitlyn also manages to balance her ongoing learning with being a mum of two and a manager of a local children’s hockey team.
To other young women who might be considering a career in civil construction, she says: “Go for it!
“There are so many opportunities out there. It’s a field that can challenge you, but it can also bring out the best in you and make you realise you’re capable of skills you never thought you would have.
“Don’t be discouraged by stereotypes or doubts. The good days definitely outweigh the bad in this industry.”
HEB Training Manager – Learning and Development, David Hall, says, “Kaitlyn worked hard to achieve her Level 3 qualification and Level 4 apprenticeship through Connexis, and it’s amazing to see her go on to enrol in the Civil Engineering Diploma.
“She has worked hard with her studies and has found time to help her workmates with their own studies. Kaitlyn truly is an inspiration to all women in the civil industry who are looking to further their career through the HEB apprentice programme.
Well done, Kaitlyn—a deserving winner of Apprentice of the Year.”