Kate Pemberton started her working life the same way the people she now champions did: as an apprentice. Fresh out of high school, she enrolled in an automotive mechanical apprenticeship while simultaneously completing a university degree in National Parks and Wildlife. Two very different paths, held open at the same time as she figured out where she belonged. The degree never led anywhere professionally. The trade led to everything.
Decades later, Kate is Komatsu’s National Apprentice Development Manager, responsible for shaping apprenticeship programs across one of the world’s largest original equipment manufacturers. She works across Australia’s mining and construction sectors, building training pathways, forging industry partnerships, and helping the next generation of skilled technicians find their footing. It is a role that could only be done well by someone who has lived it from the inside—and Kate has.
Built on a trade
Kate’s career did not follow a linear plan. After completing her apprenticeship, she moved into service leadership and operational roles, developing the communication skills and customer focus that would prove foundational to everything that followed. She learned how to build relationships grounded in honesty, how to lead through complexity, and how to hold a team together when things got difficult.
That work eventually took her to Far North Queensland, where she was appointed Branch Manager with Komatsu, a role she held for 15 years.
When the opportunity arose to move into apprentice development, the fit was obvious.
“Having lived both the challenges and the opportunities of a trade background, I bring a practical, grounded perspective to apprentice development.”
The role draws on every part of her career: not just the technical expertise, but the years spent navigating people, problems, and high-pressure environments.
In the field
Much of her time is spent out in the field, visiting apprentices across Komatsu’s Oceania network in person.
“These in-person interactions are the part of the job I value most. The people, the conversations, and the chance to genuinely support individuals as they grow.”
The support she offers spans a wide range. Sometimes it means being a steady presence for an apprentice navigating a personal challenge. Other times it means having a direct conversation about performance, the kind that requires care and courage in equal measure.
Behind the face-to-face work sits a significant amount of planning. Kate reviews training plans, shapes development strategies, and manages program budgets to ensure investment is directed where it matters most. Safety runs through all of it. Her team works closely with branches to review and reinforce apprentice safety measures, making sure every person in the program has the environment and knowledge they need to succeed.
What the years have taught her
A career built on trade, leadership, and people has given Kate a clear sense of what works. At the top of the list: communication. Not just the easy conversations, but the ones that require honesty when something is not working, and the composure to have them well.
Perhaps the most personal lesson took years to learn.
“Taking a moment when emotions are high is something I learned the hard way when I was younger, but it’s become one of the most important tools I rely on today.”
Backing yourself, and staying humble
For women considering a career in operations, Kate’s advice is:
“When you decide this is the path you want, throw yourself into it. Work hard, stay curious, and lead by example. Your effort and consistency will speak louder than anything else.”
100 WOMEN IN OPERATIONS NOMINATION
Kate was nominated for the 100 Women in Operations campaign by her colleague Elise Motee, Komatsu’s National Talent Manager, for her participation in the VIC Trade and Tech Expo.
Do you know a woman with an interesting role or career journey?
You can nominate them to be featured. We’re looking for representation across sites, shifts, functions, industries and career stages.