Program encourages new skills

AN initiative funded in the 2020-2021 State budget is aiming to give women the chance to become building surveyors with municipalities across the state.

Ballarat local Suzanne Verdoorn is currently one of 40 women taking part in the women in building surveyors program.

During a recent visit to the Ballarat Library renovation project she said taking part in the program has helped her to gain a qualification and learn new skills.

“This will allow me to undertake inspections and get my registration as a building surveyor,” she said.

“Initially in the first year we had to construct a model of a dwelling and understand the different components of the frame.

“Now I’ve progressed into the second year where we’re looking more at building regulations and the National Construction Code.”

Ms Verdoorn has worked with the City of Ballarat for 18 years, with nearly two thirds of that time spent in the building services area.

“What I’m really enjoying is the fact that I worked in building services at the City of Ballarat for 13 years and I’m finally undertaking the learnings to obtain my registration,” she said.

“Undertaking the course just feels natural.”

Ms Verdoorn said she encouraged anyone interested to peruse surveying and not to let traditional expectations get in the way.

“I think its really important that everyone gets an opportunity to undertake something in surveying,” she said.

“Whether male of female everyone has something to give and I don’t think that should deter anyone.”