Paths & Perspectives: Gabby McCarthy
This series is more than just a collection of career stories; it’s a celebration of the inspiring women who bring spatial sciences to life. It aims to highlight the diverse career paths and perspectives within this often-overlooked field. At Veris, we recognise that our strength lies in our diverse talents, collaborative spirit, and commitment to innovation. When we work together, we create something truly special.
Meet Gabby, Unit Leader – Property Survey.
Tell us a bit about your career journey.
Well, I kind of fell into surveying. I really didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I was keen on STEM. My dad wanted me to follow in his footsteps and complete an engineering degree at Melbourne University. I didn’t quite get the marks for engineering, so I thought I would try surveying as it was part of the school of engineering, and, at the time, I thought I would swap into engineering after the first year.
When did you first know this would be the right career path for you?
I enjoyed working outdoors and was challenged by mathematics, so I decided to take a casual job at a surveying firm during my first year at university. I loved the experience! The job itself was far more engaging than the dry coursework at university. I ultimately didn't switch to engineering and continued working throughout my studies, which set me up well for a full-time job after graduation.
Survey/ Spatial Science is a male-dominated industry. How have you seen the industry change?
In the year 2000, I became a Licensed Surveyor, making me the fourth female Licensed Surveyor in Victoria. It’s surprising to realise that I was only the 1,784th Licensed Surveyor overall in Victoria, yet just the fourth woman to become Licensed. I attended professional seminars where I would sometimes be the only female present, or one of just a few among hundreds of surveyors. These days, there is a greater presence of women in the field, but it is still far from balanced. A former colleague of mine became Licensed last year, making her the 23rd female Licensed Surveyor. While I’m pleased to see the number of women increasing, it still averages out to less than one new Licensed female surveyor per year.
What career challenges have you overcome that you’re proud to share?
The first few years in my profession were challenging, as I worked with some men who did not respect me and my abilities. However, I pushed through and proved my worth. I put in the hard yards, and after securing a Professional Training Agreement, I became licensed within four years. I take pride in the fact that the opportunities I have received have come from my merit rather than tokenism.
What’s your biggest career achievement/ highlight that you’re happy to share?
Becoming a Licensed Surveyor is definitely up there! Anyone who has gone through this process understands how challenging it can be and the dedication required to succeed. I also represented the Institution of Surveyors on the Surveyors Board of Victoria from 2002 to 2004. However, I had to step away as I had two babies and was also working part-time. One of my career highlights over the past 15 years has been mentoring young surveyors and supervising PTA candidates. I truly enjoy giving back in this way.
What advice would you give to young women wanting to start their career in this industry?
Give surveying a go! Don’t be put off by thinking you can’t carry the gear or bang in a peg. It’s only one part of the role, and your career can develop in several ways.
Who is your biggest role model in the industry and why?
That is a tricky question, as there are no standouts per se. What I would say is that the surveying industry feels like a village, where many people contribute to the development of those within it. It truly takes a village to raise a Licensed Surveyor. Nowadays, the average time required to become licensed exceeds 10 years, meaning there are numerous role models playing their part, rather than just one.
If you could go back in time and tell your younger self one thing, what would that be?
Trust! Trust that if you believe in yourself and work hard, you will be looked after and enjoy giving back as much as receiving.
Gabby’s exceptional career demonstrates the strength and impact of women in spatial sciences. As we continue to champion diversity and support emerging talent, we hope stories like Gabby’s inspire others to explore the rewarding possibilities within our industry.
If Gabby’s story has inspired you, explore our career pathways or find your next opportunity among our current vacancies, where leaders like Gabby can mentor you and help shape your career.