These informal sessions are exclusive for NAWO members and are an incredible opportunity to hear from inspiring women in operations.
Throughout 2025, What a Job! brought together women working across manufacturing, supply chain, safety, sustainability, engineering, food, and energy and resources, to share honest reflections on their career journeys. Each session offered a behind-the-scenes look at leadership in action, the realities of operational roles, and the many different pathways into operations.
Together, these sessions form a powerful resource for anyone exploring career options, navigating progression, or seeking role models in operational leadership.
Here is a summary of all What a Job! recordings from 2025 – available to watch on demand in the NAWO Member Portal.
Viv Worden – Executive General Manager, Operations
This discussion highlighted the importance of embracing change, taking calculated risks and remaining open to opportunity rather than following a rigid career plan. It reinforced the value of mentorship and strong support networks in building confidence, alongside a commitment to continuous learning and self-reflection as leadership capability develops over time.
Alison McGregor – Asset Manager
This conversation explored the complexity of leading critical energy infrastructure while balancing safety, sustainability and long-term value. It highlighted how curiosity, international experience and a willingness to stretch beyond technical expertise can build strong, people-first leadership capability.
Willa Budiman – Systems Engineer
We spoke with Willa, a Systems Engineer at Sage Automation with experience in Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems development, testing and commissioning for water applications (wastewater, water treatment, and pump stations at SA Water).
Libby Williams – Work Health and Safety Manager, Ampol
This conversation highlighted the critical role of safety leadership in high-risk operational environments and the importance of designing systems that genuinely work for people. Her experience also reinforced how intentional actions – from inclusive recruitment to supportive cultures – can meaningfully advance gender equity on the front line.
Lynn Johnson – DEI Leader
We spoke with Lynn, a dynamic leader in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, who is driving meaningful change across the AMETA region at CHEP – a global leader in sustainable supply chain solutions. With nearly 20 years of industry experience, Lynn has built a career spanning Engineering roles in Supply Chain, FMCG, Pharma, and Nutraceutical manufacturing.
Rebecca McGrath – Senior Business Leader
A great discussion with Rebecca, a distinguished business leader with extensive experience across various industries, including energy, property, and finance. She has held significant roles, such as Chair of OZ Minerals Ltd, Investa Property Group, and Scania Australia.
Claire Lauber – Chief Executive
The conversation highlighted a values-driven approach to leadership that embraces work-life integration, and inclusion and authenticity, showing how strong cultures are built through empathy, clarity and trust. Claire’s journey reinforced that confident leadership comes from knowing your values, leaning into difference and giving yourself permission to prioritise both work and life.
Deborah Caudle – Executive Leader, Sustainability and Climate
The conversation highlighted how preparation, curiosity and proactive networking create career opportunities, reinforcing the idea that “luck” is built, not accidental. Deborah’s journey also showed how technical credibility, resilience and continuous learning enable leaders to drive meaningful impact, including leading large-scale sustainability change in heavy industry.
The 2025 What a Job! sessions bring visibility to the many ways women are building meaningful operational careers across industries. These conversations remain a valuable resource for learning, reflection and inspiration.