Construction World August 2023

MARKETPLACE

In an industry predominantly known for being male-dominated, it's always refreshing to see the rise of women who not only make their mark but also challenge and redefine the traditional norms. One such individual is Marieta Buckle, Process Technology Manager at AfriSam, who is steering her team and the industry towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. BUILDING THE FUTURE AND SMASHING GLASS CEILINGS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

M arieta's day-to-day operations are robust and full of challenges. She took time out to chat to Construction World explaining that her core responsibilities include managing a technical team that assists in optimising cement manufacturing operations. The team's key areas of focus include process control and optimisation, technical design and feasibility studies for procesing equipment upgrades and improvements as well as focussing on sustainability. Her specific area of expertise relates to devising energy-saving strategies and managing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and pollution prevention strategies. “My journey in the construction sector began over 19 years ago, being initially drawn towards this field while I worked as a lecturer and participated in research activities related to lime,” she says. This led to an opportunity at a lime production facility, where she obtained invaluable manufacturing and operational experience, whereafter she moved to the cement manufacturing industry. “The construction industry has continually provided opportunities for growth and posed exciting challenges,” Marieta shares. “Overcoming these required a determined focus on factual and technical communication and most importantly, not shying away from hands-on tasks on-site.” She confirms the construction sector is no longer a field limited to one gender and says women have started gaining acceptance not only at the professional level but also in trade and skilled workforce areas. Her advice to women considering a career in construction is to realise that the construction industry is a critical sector for infrastructure development and housing, which will require investments for decades to come. “Despite the cyclical nature of the construction industry, it is an industry that will always require skilled and motivated individuals,” she emphasises. One of Marieta’s notable achievements is her contribution towards making the cement industry more sustainable. Her involvement at AfriSam conducting carbon footprinting calculations for products manufactured and establishing improvements in managing and reducing GHG emissions has been a career highlight. She is particularly proud of AfriSam’s commitment to sustainability and its early adoption of targets to reduce GHG emissions. Marieta believes women can significantly contribute to construction due to their nurturing nature, and sees this as a unique quality women bring to the workplace, making it easier for them to adopt a servant leadership style. This, in turn, helps build stronger teams and ensures a more engaged workforce. She does, however, acknowledge that work-life balance

“The construction industry has continually provided opportunities for growth and posed exciting challenges.”

Marieta Buckle, Process Technology Manager at AfriSam.

in a demanding industry like construction is a constant challenge. Her strategy involves establishing a strong support network, careful planning and open communication with her manager. “My vision for a more inclusive construction industry involves embracing different perspectives that women bring to the table. If you are passionate about your work, you can become the change the industry requires, contribute to its growth and champion the cause of diversity, sustainability and equal opportunities,” Marieta concludes. 

6 CONSTRUCTION WORLD AUGUST 2023