Career Revive case study - AECOM

An industry wide approach to addressing a national engineering workforce recruitment challenge

AECOM is a Fortune 500 global infrastructure consulting firm. They deliver professional services in planning, design, engineering and program management.

Equity, diversity and inclusion (ED&I) are core to AECOM’s vision. AECOM recognises that those who want to enter the engineering industry don’t all start from the same place because advantages and barriers exist. They aim to correct the imbalance, ensuring that everyone has access to the same opportunities for professional development, career advancement and business opportunities.

"Women are still very underrepresented as a percentage of our workforce.  As a company we really do value diversity in all forms, but particularly gender diversity. A gender diverse workforce is key to having a vibrant and creative business and ultimately helps drive business success for us.” (Richard Barrett. CEO Australia New Zealand, AECOM)

The ongoing challenge of attracting qualified female engineers is a key focus.

Actions

AECOM in North Queensland joined the Career Revive initiative and has since implemented several new initiatives, including:

• Partnering with Engineers Australia to promote and support EA’s workforce diversity efforts. Their first activity is hosting an EngConnect event to connect and support engineers who are on parental leave, working part-time or on sabbatical.
• A regional ED&I Committee that drives the ED&I strategy and develops strategic workforce activities.
• Engaging a dedicated recruiter to focus on attracting and retaining underrepresented groups in the engineering community, including women.
• Career Reload: a returner program to support engineers transitioning back into the workforce in a supported environment. Career Reload is being piloted in Queensland, with plans for a national program in the future.