News
Meet Isabella Allen: Building a career on Queensland’s biggest projects
When Isabella Allen began studying construction management at Queensland University of Technology, she knew she wanted a career that was practical, fast-paced and different every day.
Today, at just 23 years old, she is helping deliver the major Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Hospital expansion project as a Site Engineer with Built.
Having recently completed Built’s cadet program and progressed to her latest role, Isabella is part of a new generation of construction professionals helping deliver Queensland’s growing pipeline of infrastructure projects.
“I originally thought I would go into engineering because my dad works in earthmoving,” Isabella said.
“But I realised I wanted something more hands-on. I didn’t want to sit behind a computer all day and I liked the idea that no two days would be the same.”
After discovering QUT’s Bachelor of Urban Development (Construction Management) program, Isabella found exactly what she was looking for.
“You get exposure to the industry very early, so you quickly learn whether it’s the right fit for you. I absolutely fell in love with it and never looked back,” she said.
Isabella joined Built as a cadet in 2024 while completing the final years of her degree, which she graduated from with Honours and a minor in Property Economics.
She says the company’s cadet program provided a clear pathway from university into the construction industry, combining practical experience on site with structured professional development.
“They’ve got an amazing cadet program. It’s very hands-on and very interactive. You work closely with managers and project teams, and there are lots of opportunities to learn from people across the business.”
Now working as a Site Engineer on the QEII Hospital Expansion project, Isabella’s role involves supporting project delivery across quality, safety, design coordination, time and cost management.
“Every day is different. I’m supporting the project team to keep the job moving, whether that’s coordinating drawings, responding to RFIs, working with subcontractors or helping manage quality and safety outcomes,” she said.
The scale and complexity of projects available in Queensland were a major factor in Isabella’s decision to pursue a career in construction.
With significant investment continuing across health, education, transport and community infrastructure, she believes there has never been a better time for young people to enter the industry.
“It’s a very exciting time, especially as a young professional,” Isabella said.
“The pipeline of work and the opportunities available show how much growth there is ahead. Being able to contribute to projects that will have a lasting impact on communities is really rewarding.”
As one of a growing number of women entering the construction sector, Isabella is also passionate about encouraging more young women to consider careers in the industry.
“When I started, there weren’t many women in some of the teams I worked in,” she said.
“That’s changing and it’s great to see more women coming through. The more people we can encourage into the industry, the stronger it will be.”
For Isabella, construction offers something few other careers can match.
“At the end of the day, you can stand back and see what you’ve helped create,” she said. “Being part of projects that improve communities and leave a lasting legacy is something I’m really proud of.”
