Introducing Our Board
Jo Farrell
Jo Farrell founded Build Like a Girl with a simple but powerful goal – to create real opportunities for women in construction and to show that there’s a place for everyone on the tools. Driven by her own experiences in the industry, Jo is passionate about breaking down barriers, building confidence, and connecting women with the training and support they need to succeed.
She believes in the strength of community and the importance of visibility – that when women see others thriving in construction, they’re inspired to follow their own path. Through Build Like a Girl, Jo is helping to change perceptions, create pathways, and build a more inclusive future for the industry.
Rebecca O’Brien
Rebecca has dedicated 14 years to the Australian Commonwealth Public Service, building a career in asset and software management, business support, and government administration. With a strong record of managing resources effectively and streamlining operational processes, Rebecca has consistently contributed to organisational efficiency and accountability. Her experience reflects adaptability across diverse roles and a commitment to excellence in public service.
Rebecca joined Build Like a Girl as a volunteer since 2021 and whilst Rebecca does not have a formal trade qualification, apart from her mean caulking skills, she is passionate about providing support, guidance, and connections for women in trade roles, helping to close the gender gap in construction and create pathways for female apprentices, students, and women within the construction industry.
Caitlin Maggs
Caitlin Maggs is a qualified electrician of 14 years and proud member of the industry since 2007.
Caitlin has worked in many areas of the electrical industry, focusing the last 10 years on residential electrical, lighting design and electrical maintenance. Caitlin currently owns and runs a small electrical business – HAYL Electrical.
Alongside her technical expertise, she brings a unique blend of leadership, humour, and community engagement through her work as both a trade professional and stand up comedian. A dedicated advocate for women in trades and apprenticeships, Caitlin is passionate about creating pathways, visibility and support for women entering and thriving in the industry. She is deeply committed to fostering inclusive, positive learning environments and serves as a trusted mentor and safe space for students undertaking work experience.
As a Mum, mentor and long-time sparky, Caitlin brings authenticity, empathy, genuine care and lived experience to the Build Like A Girl board.
Carly Dewy
Carly Dewey is a Licensed Builder and Director of Temperley Homes, known for delivering high-end, design-focused renovations, extensions, and custom new homes across Canberra. She brings over a decade of hands-on industry experience, combining practical building knowledge with a strong eye for detail and energy-efficient design.
Alongside her residential work, Carly runs She Builds Homes, a platform dedicated to educating clients, sharing behind-the-scenes insights, and empowering more women to confidently enter and thrive in the construction industry.
Lauren Cannell
Lauren Cannell is a changemaker dedicated to building inclusive and compassionate communities.
Lauren founded Educación Diversa, a not-for-profit community of international volunteers who design art-based programs that teach human rights, sexual and reproductive health and conflict resolution. She also founded ArtFullness, an organisation that harnesses creativity for healing, connection and mental health prevention.
Lauren serves on the board of Build Like a Girl and is a member of the Policy Advisory Committee for Women with Disabilities ACT. She initiated the Period Poverty, Period Dignity project to place free sanitary products in public toilets. Her grassroots effort contributed to the Australian Capital Territory becoming the first Australian jurisdiction to legislate the provision of free period products.
Lauren has chosen to be on the Board of BLAG because she believes that women should be able to work in construction and that construction will be safe places for everyone if we can increase female representation across the industry. She is dedicating her life to meaningful impact and hopes to be remembered not for what she has, but for how she used her privilege to uplift others.