Master Builders: Thanks for talking with us, Amanda. Can we start with what got you into the industry?
Amanda Kerley: My dad was a builder and I spent a lot of time on site with him as a kid. I always wanted to be a builder, but it wasn’t a common or well-supported path for women.
Later in life, when the opportunity came up, I decided to go for it. Now it’s come full circle, with my son working at Whippet Developments as an apprentice. That makes three generations in the industry, which I’m incredibly proud of.
MB: What do you enjoy most about your job?
AK: I love the variety – no two days are the same. I enjoy being on site solving problems, working through the details, and dealing directly with clients to turn their ideas into something real. There’s nothing better than watching a project go from a plan on paper to something finished and functional.
Being both a qualified builder and general manager means I understand how things are built, while also keeping an eye on the bigger picture – timelines, budgets, and client relationships.
I also enjoy supporting apprentices and seeing their confidence build, because I remember how tough those early years can be.
MB: You came to building later in your career. What were you doing beforehand?
AK: When I left school, I went into a law firm as a junior and then did my legal executive courses by correspondence. I did that for about 12 years, then I ran a mechanic workshop with my ex-husband.
When we split up, I started my own painting business. My dad actually taught me to paint. Even to this day, if we need to paint something before putting it up, it's easier to do it myself.
Then Matt suggested I do my apprenticeship. I've always really loved building, but I thought no, I'm too busy and I’ve got kids. And for me to do it, I had to succeed. It took three or four months to decide.
After a year of my apprenticeship, I said I can't do this anymore. This is not me and I can't do it. That’s a common feeling, when you get to that point. All the boys we've had with us go through phases like that.
It does feel a bit daunting, but you don't have to feel alone because this stuff is so common. But you won't know that unless you're around people who you can talk to about what's normal.
MB: How do you face the challenges of being a woman in the construction industry?
AK: When I was an apprentice, I had moments where I doubted myself. I questioned whether I was good enough and whether I deserved to be there.
Construction has long been seen as a “man’s job”, but that way of thinking needs to change. Building is about skill, problem solving, communication, and work ethic – not gender.
I focus on doing the job well, backing myself, and being consistent. When you know your craft and communicate clearly, respect follows.
MB: So, it’s not about this being a special feat, but about developing confidence.
AK: Having the right mentor or support person is key. Because when you are doubting yourself, you need someone that's going to lift you up and say you’ve got this, you can do it.
It's still hard, there’s still a lot to be navigated. But there are so many more people now who are willing to see the value of women in the industry. And when they've worked with us, they actually know that value.
MB: What advice would you give to an employer who would love to employ more women? Or to an employer who might be a bit resistant?
AK: It would be to give us a chance, to show the path forward, then you'll be surprised. People who have employed women have said to me that it can bring a different dynamic to the team, a great energy.
I do see guys that just don't even want to consider employing women. They are very headstrong about this not being an industry for women. I believe that's a mindset we've got to change.
You know, I think strength is a misconception. People say I can't be a builder because I'm not strong enough. But we've had male apprentices come on site and I'm stronger than them because I'm conditioned to the job. You're lifting windows, and they've still got to build their muscles up.
MB: Without different people and perspectives, you might be missing a piece of the puzzle?
AK: Yeah, I think so. Sometimes I’m probably five steps ahead of the boys. I'm not saying that all the guys are like this. But I can see: if you do that now, you're going to create this problem down the line.
Even with clients, to have a woman there, it can change how you’re working with a husband and wife, for example. It means the conversation is not male dominated, where the wife could feel a bit sidelined. They can feel more comfortable having a voice.
MB: The theme for International Women’s Day this year is “give to gain.” What advice would you give to other women looking to enter the construction industry?
AK: Back yourself – even when doubt creeps in. Feeling unsure doesn’t mean you don’t belong; it usually means you’re learning. Don’t wait until you feel 100% ready. Even now, I still feel out of place sometimes – it's natural to feel like that.
Just get started, keep learning, and build confidence as you go. Learn in manageable chunks, ask questions, and find people who support you.
Networking with other women in the trades is huge – supporting each other helps normalise the challenges and reminds you that you’re not on your own. We all have a role in showing that there is a place for women in all trades.