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Maria Gatica
As a Project Manager at Downer, I lead projects with a focus on collaboration, accountability, and inclusive leadership.
I hold a Master of Project Management from QUT and proudly serve as a PMI Sydney Construction Ambassador.
In addition to my project work, I’m the Deputy Chair of EmpowHER Women’s Network and Lead of the Water Diversity Council at Downer, two platforms where I actively advocate for diversity and representation across the industry.
These roles allow me to drive meaningful change beyond the job site.
In 2024, I participated in the Women in Water podcast at the OzWater Conference, and in 2025, I joined the AWA’s Unlocking the Power of Mentorship panel to discuss how accelerate action for professional development.
I believe real progress in construction isn’t just measured in timelines and budgets, but in the culture we build around the work—and who we empower along the way.