Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA) chief executive officer Jane Schmitt and president Michael Close share updates from across the organisation, as well as an interview with new national IQA Women in Quarrying coordinator Carly Monaghan.
CEO update: Jane Schmitt
A year of progress, purpose and possibility: Reflecting on my first 12 months at the IQA
As I mark my first 12 months as the Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA)chief executive officer, I am filled with optimism. It has been a dynamic and energising journey, one that’s challenged me, inspired me, and reinforced the critical role IQA plays in shaping a strong future for our sector.
Coming into this role from a different sector, I was struck by how essential quarrying is to building our communities. Yet how little of that story is known beyond our gates. Over the past year, we’ve taken bold steps to change that.
We commenced our School to Work program, which will provide a framework to support school leavers into the sector, while also assisting workplaces to be new entrant ready. At last year’s national conference, we opened our doors to students, educators and parents through our first-ever careers corner – a meaningful step toward inspiring the next generation.
Alongside this, we have set in motion a nationwide public awareness campaign, elevating the voices of people within our sector. This will launch later this year and will involve real stories and authentic perspectives, as we aim to show the broader community not only what we do, but who we are.
Our digital transformation is well underway, with a new website launching this month and a member app soon to follow. We have also introduced key programs to strengthen our network and support our members:
We are also working with partners in the UK to assess how we can bring quarry-specific courses into the Australian tertiary education system.
This year has laid a strong foundation. Together, we’re building momentum, nurturing a sector that is more visible, inclusive, and future-ready. I am excited for what is ahead, and deeply proud of what we have achieved so far.
Conversations with IQA president Michael Close
Michael Close interviews new IQA national Women in Quarrying coordinator Carly Monaghan.
Michael Close (IQA President): Carly, congratulations on your appointment. What drew you to take on this leadership role?
Carly Monaghan: Having worked in the sector for several years, I’ve seen firsthand both the incredible opportunities available and the barriers that still exist for women and diverse groups. The chance to lead initiatives that break down those barriers and showcase quarrying as an exciting, diverse career option was too important to pass up.
MC: What’s your vision for the WIQ Network moving forward?
CM: I want to build on the fantastic foundation and focus on practical actions that create real change. We need to move beyond awareness to implementation, helping companies build inclusive cultures, connecting women with mentors and career opportunities, and inspiring the next generation to see quarrying as their future.
MC: Tell us about the diversity and inclusion (D&I) day in October.
CM: This will be our first national coordinated diversity and inclusion initiative. We are planning morning networking sessions across branches, a live-streamed national panel discussion, and social media campaigns showcasing diverse role models. The goal is to demonstrate that inclusion is not just a concept, it is actionable and beneficial for everyone.
MC: What would you say to women considering careers in quarrying?
CM: This sector builds communities and infrastructure that benefits everyone and offers incredible career diversity. There has never been a better time to join us, and the WIQ Network is here to support you.
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