In celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) on Saturday 8 March, we shine a spotlight on the contribution which four female leaders who work at Essendon Fields are making to their profession and to our community. Here are four stories to inspire young women to seize their dreams.

Christine Campell – Airservices Australia Unit Tower Supervisor, Essendon Fields Airport | Take the leap

Christine joined the Airservices Australia team back in 2001, and loves the working environment.

“I have worked in Melbourne Tower, Moorabbin Tower, Maroochydore Tower, Avalon Tower and now Essendon Tower. I have also had periods of time as an air traffic controller (ATC) instructor at Airservices Training Academy in Melbourne. When I think about all the places I have worked, Essendon Tower has by far been my favourite. I love the variety each day brings, I love the unexpected, I love the people I work with and I love the location,’’ she said.

Christine’s daily routine as an air traffic controller begins with an assessment of the weather and then determining the subsequent best runway configuration.

“As an air traffic controller you have to be constantly vigilant and have full situational awareness and that’s what makes the job so interesting and motivating. Everything can be going on swimmingly and out of nowhere something unexpected might happen and you have to be all over it. You have to know exactly what to do and work through it to resolve any issues. There’s no time for panic. You just press on and do what needs to be done. The great thing about Airservices Australia is that we remember our training, use our checklists and work together as a team,’’ said Christine.

Airservices is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in its workplace, as well as in the wider aviation industry – and happily, the industry is changing, with more women entering the field. Christine notes that believing in yourself and your own abilities is key.

“You just need to go for it. Women can do whatever they set their mind to!”

Christine encourages other women to consider a career in air traffic control – a fast-paced, dynamic and rewarding career for the future. She says the best candidates display spatial awareness, quick mathematical skills, and have the ability to demonstrate logical, quick thinking and to problem solve, while being able to multi-task and work well under pressure. The shift work hours can be flexible and there are varying career and leave opportunities.

“At Airservices, we all see each other as equals, we perform the same role, we get paid the same and are very supportive of each other’s needs.”

“I would definitely recommend this career journey as an air traffic controller to other women, including future generations of women considering a career in the aviation industry. Take the leap!” she finished.

For career opportunities visit Air Traffic Control careers – Airservices.

Michelle McIntyre – Development Manager, Essendon Fields | Back yourself

Michelle has been working at Essendon Fields for just over a year and a half.

“After finishing my bachelor’s degree in science, I decided that pathway wasn’t for me and went on to complete my master’s in urban planning and environment. I worked as a town planner for a private consultant for a number of years, before moving into a Development Manager role at Allaf Property. I spent two years at Allaf working predominantly on childcare developments before moving to Essendon Fields,” she said.

Michelle loves the diversity in her role as Development Manager at Essendon Fields, and the challenges and opportunities it brings.

“Every day is just so different; it’s dynamic and requires me to interact with every part of the business. I love being able to get out on site and work closely with our key stakeholders such as contractors, external project managers, architects, and  tenants to deliver projects. The team at Essendon Fields is extremely supportive which makes the job very engaging,” said Michelle.

“The property sector has come a long way in improving diversity and inclusion and supporting women to grow their confidence and self-belief. This increase in gender diversity drives fresh perspectives, provides companies greater input and output all the while shaping the future of our nation. I push our next generation to have the discipline to keep having conversations, taking feedback, and being prepared to challenge your own thoughts around diversity.”

Ahead of International Women’s Day, Michelle has a simple message for women interested in a career in commercial property development: “Trust in your abilities, embrace every opportunity to learn, and never underestimate yourself. Find a workplace that empowers, supports and also challenges you.”

Ankita Patel – Contracts Administrator, Green by Nature | Confidence is key

Ankita joined Green by Nature because of its commitment to sustainability and excellence in ground maintenance.

“I really enjoy ensuring smooth operations and contributing to creating and maintaining green space. I love the team spirit and supportive environment of Green by Nature, and I love the variety in my role. I get to solve different challenges everyday while making sure operations run smoothly,” she said.

Ankita highlights that International Women’s Day is also an opportunity to talk about sustainability.

“It’s been inspiring to see the evolving role that women are playing in a global field that’s so complex. Sustainability encompasses not only environmental advancement, but gender equality as well. In 10 years, I see myself growing in my profession, possibly stepping into a senior leadership role. I also see myself contributing to a better world by helping the business I work for become more sustainable, as well as continuing the conversation around equality for women and girls of all ages.”

What advice does Anikta have for the next generation of fearless females?

“Confidence is key and passion drives success. If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”

Taz Afzal – Store Manager, Coles Essendon Fields | Put the hard work in, and nobody can deny you a spot at the table

Taz has been working for Coles for 7 years, and this week marks a full year at their Essendon Fields store.

“I was originally hired as a service team member, and used to always say yes to different opportunities in various departments to try and gain maximum experience. I was handed my first leadership role at 19 and worked my way through a number of different roles before finally becoming a Store Support Manager! I moved regions from the west to the north to open a new store and also broaden my horizons in the hope of becoming a Store Manager. I was moved to Essendon Fields as the Temporary Store Manager and I’m proud to announce that I have since been signed on as the official Store Manager,” she said.

Day to day Taz says her role involves making sure the store operates safely and efficiently, ensuring a positive experience for both customers and staff. She loves to coach her team and encourages them to upskill where possible, and uses her leadership skills to empower those around her.

“I love that I can have even a small impact on the lives of so many people. The Essendon Fields store really does feel like a little community,” she said.

“It has been such a huge twelve months of learning, growing as a leader and kicking goals as a team and I’m beyond proud of everything we have achieved together as a store. I’m here to stay and I can’t wait to see what we achieve together next!”

To the next generation of Fearless Females looking to step into a leadership role, Taz says she has always lived by the idea that if you put the hard work in, nobody can deny you a spot at the table.

“Be open to learn, grow and step out of your comfort zone. It’ll always pay dividend. Our success is what we make it!”