Getting to know Katrina…

Tell us about your current business.  What do you offer, how long you’ve been there, and the size of your business?

Stride Consulting Engineers is a structural and civil engineering firm which commenced trading in Port Stephens in 2018. We provide all engineering design and advice for new buildings along with alterations and additions. The business is headed by my husband Adam Walker and I have assisted him with behind the scenes administration on a part time basis whilst working as a town planner in Newcastle. The business has grown with an additional two engineers, two drafters and an administrator. It is at this pivital time that I now step into the business as a full time town planner to provide a new service offer at Stride Consulting Engineers. Stride Consulting Engineers will now provide the following services:

- due diligence planning advice,

- planning approval pathway advice,

- project management for DA approval and construction certifcates

- CPTED Reports

- Social Impact Assessments

- Clause 4.6 Variation Reports

- LEP Amendments

On a good day what do you love most about being in business?

I love working hard and challenging myself. Stepping into the business is allowing me to develop new networking skills and facilitate business growth to achieve personal and business goals.

 

What has been the biggest hurdle you have had to overcome as a woman in business?

I am my biggest hurdle. Whilst I know that I have all the skills and capabilities to work successfully in the business, there is always an element of self doubt that I have to coach myself through to say "You've got this".

In terms of you and your business, what are you most proud of?

I am proud that we have successfully established a business that is capable of supporting other families through their employment with us. Further to this, I am extremely proud of the team we have. Without them the business would not be as successful as it is. The team are full of character and it makes walking into the office a pleasure and full of fun.

What strategies do you use to try and keep a work/life balance? 

Work/life balance is always a challenge, however my husband and I work hard at maintaining the opportunity for us both to be present in the children’s before, during and afterschool activities. We like to create a flexible work environment so that our staff can also maintain this work/life balance so that they are more productive when they are at work.

What do you love about being a business woman in Port Stephens?

Since moving into the business full time, I am grateful to have taken the step to network with PSWIB. This network has provided me with the support and confidence to tackle being a businesswomen head on. Having such a strong and supportive network is what I love most about being a businesswomen in Port Stephens.

What do you enjoy doing when you don’t have your business hat on?

I enjoy spending time with my family in particularly taking the caravan out and exploring new areas. In particular we have a love of the outdoors, bike riding and hiking.

If you could give one piece of advice to a woman heading into the business world, what would it be?

There is never a right time - you just have to jump in and take it head on.

Why did you choose to become a member of PSWIB?

I chose to become a member of PSWIB because I was uncertain where to start. I lacked confidence and whilst I knew I had to start networking I was not sure how to go about it. I thought that PSWIB would be a group of women and I would feel less intimidated. It was the best thing that I did at the start of stepping in full time to the business because the women support you to grow and develop in a meaningful way.