NAWIC Director Glenn Merkel.
The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has appointed the first man to its Board of Directors, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s 30-year history.
Glenn Merkel’s recent appointment to the seven-member board reflects NAWIC’s commitment to inclusive leadership and the key role of male allies in advancing gender equity across the construction industry.
He joins Jennifer Gillett (National Chairperson), Susan Mercer (National Vice Chairperson), Director Anna Broughton, Director Alison Fietz, Director Talia Keyes and Director Stefanie Nutt.
From its initial launch in Melbourne by founder Paula Gerber in 1995, NAWIC has grown to over 19,000 members nationally including more than 380 organisational members. Membership is open to all – women, men and non-binary people at all career stages and organisations of all types and size.
As the peak membership body for women working in the construction sector, with chapters in every State and Territory, NAWIC is committed to empowering women and creating fair, inclusive and respectful workplaces where everyone can thrive.
Women make up roughly 12% of the construction sector and only about 3% of trades. NAWIC’s focus includes supporting members and changing the culture of the sector, with the key priorities of women’s participation, reducing the gender pay gap, women’s advancement, women in leadership and safe, inclusive workplaces.
As a Managing Director with a long-standing background in construction and business leadership, Glenn’s appointment brings significant experience in organisational improvement and a grounded, systems focused perspective to leadership to the board. He values fairness, capability, and clear decision making, and believes the best outcomes come from empowering others and working with trusted, highly capable partners. Outside of work, Glenn is a dad to three daughters.
Learn more about the NAWIC Board of Directors at www.nawic.com.au
Comments attributed to NAWIC National Chairperson Jennifer Gillett
“NAWIC continues to collaboratively drive gender equity in the construction sector through culture change, and we warmly welcome Glenn Merkel to our Board of Directors.
“Glenn brings skills and experience that will strongly complement the existing expertise across our board and support NAWIC’s strategic priorities. This appointment reflects our commitment to building a balanced board with diverse perspectives and strong governance experience.
“My sincere thanks go to past and present board members and leadership teams for their constructive and progressive approach to achieving our vision to create an equitable construction industry for all.
“It really is exciting to see NAWIC being increasingly regarded as an important partner by government and organisations of all types and sizes, playing a leading role for the industry.
“Our board remains committed to driving our organisation forward with the support of our members, volunteer chapter councils, industry partners, sponsors and dedicated staff.”
Comments attributed to NAWIC CEO Cathryn Greville
“We are delighted to welcome Glenn Merkel to our National Board of Directors. We need a fundamental reset of how our industry operates and men hold the key to solving the issues women currently face in the construction sector, so it’s vital that our board includes a variety of voices.
“When we prioritise a culture of fairness, inclusion and respect, we can create workplace environments where everyone feels valued and able to succeed.
“Through our support for women and organisations, and innovative initiatives like the Allyship in Action project, parental leave research and toolkit, and microaggressions research, training and resources, we are giving individuals and businesses the tools to be part of the solution.
“This is critical to attract more women into the industry, retain them, and foster a strong pipeline of future leaders. We have billions of dollars of construction projects to deliver and we have an untapped pool of women available to help build them.”
Comments attributed to NAWIC Director Glenn Merkel
“I found NAWIC while looking for an association to support and connect our female staff. I was immediately impressed by the strength of the community and its inclusive approach – bringing people together across roles and backgrounds and welcoming allies.
“I’m proud to support NAWIC’s practical work and the value of balanced gender representation at board level, and I’m excited to contribute.
“I believe gender equity is everyone’s responsibility, and that engaging men as active allies is essential for lasting change.”