Architect
Name: Monica Jadhav
Career stage: Mid-level - 5-10 years' experience
Working: Office
High School Subjects: Math A, English, Graphics, Physical Education, Ancient History, Spanish
Favourite: Graphics
Further study: University
Where and what: Bachelor of Environmental Design (Griffith Uni), Masters of Architecture (Griffith Uni)
"I come from a family where most of the women are either teachers or nurses. They think I am brave and intelligent working in a field which is still considered to be mostly male dominant."
the inside scoop…
What does an Architect actually do? Ultimately, we get to be involved in the building process from the very beginning when it is just a blank site or an existing building right up until it is constructed. We do anything from designing and collaborating with the client, drawing up construction documentation on computer programs to assisting the builder on site with questions and problems and sometimes managing the construction process.
What does a day in your life at work look like? Most days are in the office. But on occasion we will be at client meetings discussing design development or sometimes we head out to site for a couple of hours or a whole day to meet with the builder and check on building progress!
What's the best part of your job? Seeing the final product! Nothing more satisfying than seeing ideas and hard work come to life! I also love to see the reactions of the clients when they get to see the spaces you created for them for the first time.
What made you realise construction could be for you? My graphics teacher suggested and inspired me to pursue it. I was originally going down the path of being a teacher. We did a restaurant design assignment that I enjoyed and did well in and the interest sparked from there.
Do you have any advice for young women picking a career? Do something that challenges you! If you pick something that pushes your thinking and the social norm, then you will never get bored and you will always be learning! That is why I love Architecture! It is never ending problem solving!
What do your friends and family think about working in construction? I come from a family where most of the women are either teachers or nurses. They think I am brave and intelligent working in a field which is still considered to be mostly male dominant.
What's something that surprised you about working in construction? That no matter how smart, or how good you are at your job that a small percentage of men out in the field still treat you a bit different because you are woman! And that is another reason why I love to work in construction. I get to help break down gender barriers within the industry so more women and girls can have a better experience doing the same job!
Monica is open to engaging further via: Taking a student for work experience, Speaking at a high school, Mentoring a student.
If you'd like to enquire more, please fill out the form below with the subject name: "Monica Jadhav" and we'll pass your message on.