I became a member of Top 100 Women primarily for getting and staying connected. Every woman should have a network of people that she benefits from both a career and a personal growth perspective. We all need to be mindful of supporting one another and make sure that we’re lifting-up those around us. It’s the opportunity to meet like-minded people, maybe even someone who will help you find your way to that end goal. Women are more likely to attain fulfillment in their careers and personal lives if they have a solid support group of other women. It is the ultimate opportunity to share your experiences, learn from one another, and make valuable business and social contacts through networking opportunities. Change begins with education about the role of women and the importance of staying connected is relevant and timely.
As a member of this network, women will realise increased leadership opportunities, and personal and professional goal achievement, invaluable networking and connections. I encourage all women in the industry to join, and what better time to join than NOW!
First and foremost, I am a proud mother of two sons (adults now), both champions in their own right and of course my three fur babies, all English Staffies – Chia, Jada & Chevy. On every other day I am a coal train driver for a world leading resources company located and based in Central Queensland’s’ Bowen Basin. I have been driving coal trains for the past 7 years now and I can honestly and genuinely say that “I love my job”!
After working predominantly in the corporate sector for collectively thirty years in Administration, HR, WHS and Project Management within the heavy earth-moving industry and our family owned and operated civil contracting company and having to endure a rather big “Oh Shit” moment in my life and thus being unemployed for a lengthy period, I had to re-wire my self-confidence, re-launch my career, re-gain credibility and found myself searching for something more challenging and started applying for anything and every kind of vacant job outside of the corporate sector and was fortunate enough to come across the Trainee Train Driver position and the rest as they say is history. A variety of things can go wrong in train driving, but there’s an incredible feeling of empowerment knowing I can handle it myself – that’s pretty cool.
I have also just recently, earlier this year, become a published author of my book titled “High Heels to Hi Vis” in which it tells of my transition from the corporate sector into the world of Hard Hats and Hi Vis and is a guide to attract women into considering such a career change or re-entry to the workforce into a non-traditional role within these industries.
We need to reinforce the confidence of women to know that “you can do this kind of job and you can enjoy it and be passionate about it”, everyone is capable of doing the job, so you will hear me say “go on get your glo on…become a Glo Getter (get your hi-vis on)!” whenever the opportunity arises.
Connect with Jo Sainsbury
One specific and simple theme is what should be focused upon. Having a good idea
of what your members want will let give them the same and thus retain them for far.