Wednesday 6th of March, 2023 

Come join us in real life (if you are in Melbourne) or online for a dynamic hybrid event that celebrates the journeys and experiences of senior professionals within the tunnelling industry!!

Three distinguished speakers will share their personal stories, followed by a panel discussion and Q&A on industry trends, diversity, and resilience.

All genders, ages, and abilities are warmly invited!!!

Delve Underground and Arup sponsor the event.

Learning outcomes for this event include:

By joining this event, you will :
1) Gain understanding on Diverse Career Journeys
2) Be inspired on resilience and leadership principles
3) Promote Gender Equality and Inclusion.

Event Program

5.30 arrival and refreshments
6:00 event start
7:00 finish and networking
7.30 event concludes

*Times listed are AEDT

About the presenters:

Isolde Shepherd-Piet, MSc

Construction Lead – Tunnels at Suburban Connect – CPB

Isolde Shepherd-Piet, a seasoned Civil Project Manager, brings 21 years of diverse experience in the civil engineering industry across Australia, The Netherlands, and Turkey. With a Master of Science in underground construction, Isolde has worked on complex multi-disciplinary D&C projects in challenging environments. Her expertise extends to both the contractor and client’s side, where she provides strong technical and build-ability support. Isolde’s track record includes meeting program, cost, safety, quality, and environmental objectives. Her unwavering motivation and leadership drive contribute to successful outcomes in Tender Stage as well as Preparation and Construction Stage.

Kate Wingad 

Group Manager – Engineering and Design (Rail) – John Holland

Kate Wingad, a strategic leader in civil engineering, boasts an impressive track record of designing and delivering Australia’s most significant infrastructure projects. With extensive experience, Kate has held both technical and leadership roles on multidisciplinary endeavors, including the Melbourne Airport Rail, Regional Rail Link, Melbourne Metro Early Works, Level Crossing Removals, the Adelaide Desalination Plant, and the West Gate Tunnel Project. Her expertise spans construction delivery, engineering management, instrumentation, monitoring, and geotechnical design.. Kate distills complex information into practical actions aligned with regulatory realities. She inspires the next generation of talented women to embrace this dynamic discipline, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Elena Gavazzi (Ceng MICE, NER)

Associate Principal at Arup

Elena, a Chartered Civil Engineer, boasts 15 years of professional experience in both the Australian and UK engineering and construction industries. She has left her mark on several high-profile projects, including Crossrail, High Speed 2, and Melbourne Metro (CYP). Currently, Elena holds the position of Delivery Director for the AAW JV, overseeing the design delivery for the Melbourne Metro works within CYP. Her journey includes roles such as Deputy Project Manager for the HS2 Design and Build Contract S1 & S2, and Assistant Project Manager for HS2 Phase 2a Contract 861 (West Midlands to Crewe route). She also managed the York Potash MTS tunnel project and played a pivotal role in Crossrail, focusing on asset protection for Liverpool Street and Whitechapel Stations. Elena excels in project delivery and contractor management, backed by her technical expertise and engineering knowledge. She’s a skilled communicator, a team player, and adept at stakeholder engagement.