Today we welcome back to the stage Lena O’Hagan – winner of the 2025 NAWOxTalks.
Currently Health & Safety Principal at Fortescue, she supports their global projects.
Growing up on a farm in Ireland as the youngest of six, Lena was drawn to practical, hands-on work and the operational side of life. That interest carried through to her career.
Lena moved from operational projects into shutdowns at just 24, becoming one of very few women in that space. Her roles took her across multiple countries, navigating the complexity of safety in unfamiliar cultures and environments, often far outside her comfort zone.
Through this experience, she quickly learned the importance of building trust, holding her ground, and encouraging other women to step forward. Lena also realised that by staying silent on certain behaviours, she was unintentionally allowing them to continue – a turning point that reshaped how she advocates for respectful workplaces.
Onsite, Lena joined emergency response teams that had few female members at the time – encouraging others to follow. She has supported first-time female site workers to feel safe, informed, and included.
Now preparing for her next step into management, she will take with her many valuable lessons to lead with impact.
Nominated for her:
- Inspiring speech at the 2025 end-of-year mentoring celebration
- Commitment to creating inclusive workplaces and advancing women in operations
Congratulations Lena! – on being featured in our 100 Women in Operations Hall of Fame and on your achievements.