USQ alumna paves the way for women in male-dominated fields

In 2001 Michelle Bouldin graduated from university studies after deciding she wanted a career change – a career change from the Navy

USQ alumnus, Michelle Bouldin has carved a successful career in the GIS industry

to another male-dominated industry.

After studying at night school to acquire her high school certificate (HSC), she obtained an equity-based scholarship to complete her studies. Michelle achieved a Bachelor of Technology in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with Distinction from USQ.

From there, Michelle enjoyed a successful career in the GIS industry working in research, with the Environmental Protection Agency and in roles with Queensland Health. She is now a Senior Spatial Science Officer with the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

‘I wanted a change of career in the 1990s when I was working for the Navy and the GIS industry was appealing to me,’ Michelle said.

‘I knew I was going into a male-dominated industry but I wasn’t overly concerned about it.’

‘I was very fortunate to receive a HECS scholarship to help me with my studies. I studied hard and worked hard and that has led me to where I am now.’

Michelle enjoyed studying on-campus at USQ and maintains contact with FOES academic staff to this day through the DIGGARS forum.

‘The support that the academic team gave was very positive, it certainly helped me to achieve what I have been able to achieve in this field.’

The GIS field has certainly been a male-dominated arena for many years, but women are making their mark in the field.

USQ offers initiatives like Go Women in Engineering Science and Technology (Go WEST) and other equity incentives to help women in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Initiatives like this and the work of women like Michelle have certainly helped other women carve a successful career in the industry.  Michelle would encourage any women with an interest in the field to pursue a career.

‘The geospatial industry has certainly changed since I started and continues to evolve.’

‘You should find an area of interest that appeals to you and have a go – there are a variety of different fields in which to work and research in the geospatial sciences.’

More information on USQ’s GIS study options is available from the Faculty of Engineering and Surveying.
Contact Details:
Sam Tickell, USQ Media , +61 7 4631 2559