Episode 193 – The Secret to Thriving in Male-Dominated Careers

In this powerful conversation about women in leadership, we explore what it really takes to break barriers, build influence. To lead with confidence in industries where women have traditionally been underrepresented.

🎙️ In this episode of the We Are Women Podcast, Dr. Gretchen Gagel shares her incredible journey from being told “girls don’t study engineering”.  To becoming a global leader in construction, leadership, and women’s advancement. With degrees in mechanical engineering, an MBA, and a doctorate in leadership and organisational culture, Gretchen’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and impact.

After breaking barriers as Ralston Purina’s first female manufacturing operations manager, she went on to lead major consultancy projects across the construction, mining, and energy sectors, working with companies like GM, Intel, and Newcrest Mining.

Now based between Australia and the US, Gretchen is the Founder of the International Institute for Women in Construction, dedicated to doubling the number of women in the industry over the next decade.

In this conversation, Gretchen and Janeen discuss how women can back themselves, embrace leadership in every role, and balance professional ambition with family life.

Gretchen shares her 8 steps to greatness, the power of courage, and why collaboration—not competition—is the key to progress.

💡 Three Key Takeaways

🏗️ About Dr. Gretchen Gagel

🎤 Connect with Host Janeen Vosper