✨ HunterNet IWD 2026 Panelist Announcement | Give to Gain ✨
HunterNet Career Connections is proud to announce our confirmed panelists for the 2026 International Women’s Day Luncheon, celebrating the theme “Give to Gain” and shining a light on the next generation of female leaders in industry.
💡 The real insight comes from hearing directly from youth: the ones breaking barriers, forging their own paths, and shaping the industries of tomorrow.
✨ Event Details ✨
HunterNet International Women’s Day Luncheon
📅 Friday 6th March | 🕛 12:00 – 3:00pm
📍 Merewether Surfhouse – Two-course meal & refreshments included
Join us in celebrating our future female leaders in industry. Tickets here: https://crowdcatcher.com/e/hunternet-2026-international-womens-day-luncheon-tickets-XJaKrqO5Kz
#IWD2026 #GiveToGain #WomenInTrades #WomenInMaritime #SchoolBasedTrainees #FutureLeaders #HunterNetCareerConnections #RISEandShine
Angela Kylma | 3rd Year Electrical Apprentice, UGL
At just 24, Angela embodies the Give to Gain theme in action. From rotating across rail-focused sites at Broadmeadow and Kangy Angy to mentoring SBATs and opening worksites to school students, Angela gives her time, knowledge, and voice to create opportunities for others.
A proud member of RISE & Shine Women’s Network, Angela speaks openly about navigating a male-dominated industry – advocating for equity, educating where she can, and helping shift mindsets so more women feel confident entering and staying in trades.
“Giving to gain means offering up something of yourself – your time, your experience, your voice – not just for your own growth, but to make it easier for those who come after you.”
Laicy | 2nd Year Electrical Apprentice, HBT Group Waratah Engineering
“You don’t work hard to show people up – you work hard to inspire, motivate and teach others. Putting effort in for others creates a more positive community.”
Through her apprenticeship, Laicy has seen firsthand how support, patience, and encouragement can change someone’s entire experience. Her impact already speaks volumes – from encouraging more young women into construction at school (helping shift a class to nearly 50% female participation), to proudly showing that trades are not only possible but rewarding.
✨ VET Student of the Year (Construction) in Year 12
✨ Electrical Apprentice at HBT Group Waratah Engineering
✨ Proud member of RISE & Shine Women’s Network
✨ Competitive netballer and advocate for women in trades
Chloe Hillard | School-Based Trainee, Svitzer
Chloe is completing a Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) and is already a valued part of the tug crew – supporting deck operations, handling lines during towage, assisting with watchkeeping, safety drills, and equipment checks.
After completing the Float Your Boat program in 2024 and five months of work experience with Svitzer, Chloe earned her SBT role. She is building real-world maritime skills through hands-on learning, mentorship, and teamwork.
“The more you give through effort, respect, collaboration and a genuine willingness to learn, the more you gain in return – confidence, skills and meaningful experience.”
✨ Shared her story at M.A.S.T., inspiring students to explore maritime careers
✨ Member of RISE & Shine Women’s Network
✨ Entrepreneurial spirit – started her own cleaning business at 12
✨ Balances school, SBT role, and multiple part-time jobs
