From being called ‘the Mrs’ to leading a multi-award-winning plastering company, my journey has been one of transformation, determination, and purpose.
When my husband Chris and I started CRA Construction in 2018, we were at our kitchen table, rebuilding our lives after a challenging business exit. I became the accidental office manager, questioning where I fit in an industry I wasn’t trained for. I wasn’t a plasterer or a tradie, but I was determined to create something meaningful for my family, a community of tradespeople, and future generations.
In those early days, Chris would take calls and refer to me as “the Mrs,” saying, “I’ll get the Mrs to sort it.” It hurt. Why not use my name? When I asked, he’d say, “That’s just how it’s done.” But I knew it had to change. That moment pushed me to step up, find my voice, and prove I belonged—not just as Chris’s wife but as a co-founder, a leader, and a visionary.
Fast-forward to today, and CRA Construction is thriving. We’ve grown from a $200,000 turnover to a powerhouse generating eight figures, with a team of 25 who embody our core values: integrity, professionalism, communication, and family. We’ve delivered multi-million-dollar projects, expanded our team, and built a thriving culture. And through it all, I’ve embraced my role as CEO, stepping confidently into a male-dominated industry.
To truly lead, I’ve found passion in plastering—something I never imagined. I’ve launched school programs to introduce kids to the trade, showing them it’s more than a job; it’s a career with pride and opportunity. Seeing kids light up as they create something with their own hands is incredible. Plus, watching my team’s passion reignite as they mentor the next generation is even more inspiring. It’s about building not just walls but confidence and opportunity.
Inspiring women in construction has been another cornerstone of my journey. I’ve walked the challenging road of finding confidence in this industry, and now I’m paving the way for others. Through keynote speaking, mentoring, and my ‘Confident Women in Construction’ program, I’m helping women overcome imposter syndrome and step into their power. It’s not just about breaking ceilings—it’s about creating a culture where everyone’s contribution matters.
This journey hasn’t been without challenges, but every obstacle has been a lesson. Success isn’t just about numbers; it’s about impact—the apprentice proud of their first wall, the client thrilled with their renovated space, and the woman finally feeling seen and heard.
My mission is clear: to raise the bar in construction, inspire the next generation, and show women they can lead confidently and purposefully. My journey isn’t over—it’s just getting started. Visit my website, and let’s build something incredible together.