EMCEE
Manuela Andrew
Manuela Andrew is an educator, speaker and women’s health advocate, and the creator of Midlife with Mani. With roots in the construction industry and a passion for making complex health information accessible, she helps women navigate midlife with confidence—and brings warmth, clarity and energy to the stage as today’s MC.
PANEL SPEAKER
Fiona Howell
Fiona Howell is the National Key Account Manager and Business Development Manager at A&L Windows, with nearly 20 years in construction. Known for her relationship-first, solutions-focused approach, she’s also a dedicated mentor, actively championing and developing the next generation of female sales leaders in a traditionally male-dominated space.
PANEL SPEAKER
Taylah Smith
Taylah Smith is an electrician with Ergon Energy in Cairns, working across fault response, maintenance and renewable battery systems. At the end of 2025 while completing an Associate Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. A proud AWIC Young Achiever, she’s using her voice and visibility to shift perceptions of women in trades and open doors for the young women coming behind her.
PANEL SPEAKER
Stephen Gates
Stephen Gates is the General Manager of TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech and a long-time advocate for women in trades. Drawing on his own apprenticeship background, he leads major training initiatives, celebrates female apprentice excellence and works at a systemic level to create more inclusive, future-focused pathways for women across construction and engineering.
PANEL SPEAKER
Shannon Boyle
Shannon Boyle is Head of Department – Vocational Education and Pathways at Yeppoon State High School. Through mentoring, innovative programs and industry partnerships, he is actively creating new pathways for female students into welding, engineering and construction, turning interest into real opportunities, apprenticeships and long-term careers in the trades.
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