Senior Project Manager
Name: Jen Passfield
Career stage: Mid-level - 5-10 years' experience
Working: On site, Office, Remote work
High School Subjects: Mathematics Extension 1, Art, Advanced English, Earth & Environmental Science, Religion, Chemistry
Favourite: Earth & Environmental Science - It was so exciting to see how the world worked and understanding key issues that are relevant to us all.
Further study: University
where and what: Newcastle University - Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental) (Honours)
"My first job was at a RAAF Base building a new building for the F-35 Jets. This project was so much fun and high paced - it was exactly the career for me. I have since worked on some pretty cool projects... which keeps proving to me why I love being in construction."
the inside scoop…
What does a Senior Project Manager actually do? I get to be the main contact for all people on the project. I get to work on the project from planning and design all the way through to construction. I am a key part in ensuring the clients needs are met and protected.
What does a day in your life at work look like? I get to do a combination of in the office tasks and visit site. In the office I work on many administration tasks like cost reporting (looking at millions of dollars!), emails, design, client requests, contract information. On site I get to review the status of works, investigate issues and report back to the client.
What's the best part of your job? Seeing projects come to life and make an impact on so many people.
What made you realise construction could be for you? My first job was at a RAAF Base building a new building for the F-35 Jets. This project was so much fun and high paced - it was exactly the career for me. I have since worked on some pretty cool projects (prisons, schools, etc) which keeps proving to me why I love being in construction.
Tell us about a favourite project you're working on. I am currently working on a 3 storey primary school building which has a rooftop play space (fully enclosed) and an undercroft play area. This project will increase the capacity of the students at the school dramatically and will provide really beautiful new facilities.
Do you have any advice for young women picking a career? Don't be afraid to try something new! There are so many parts of this industry that are so much fun if you are willing to tackle new challenges and just have fun.
What are you excited about in the future, working in construction? Getting more and more girls into construction - women provide a new perspective to the industry and we are very well suited to this career and have so many good attributes that are needed!
Jen is open to engaging further via: Speaking at a high school, Taking a student for work experience
If you'd like to enquire more, please email hello@tomorrowswomeninconstruction.com.au with the subject: "Jen Passfield engagement enquiry" and we'll pass your message on.