In the industrial heart of Maryborough’s rail manufacturing facility, Rebecca Linwood moves confidently between office spaces and production floors as Zero Harm Advisor at Downer, bringing a fresh perspective to workplace safety in an established industry.

The safety professional has quickly made her mark in just two years in manufacturing, advocating for a more holistic approach to worker wellbeing.

“I work in zero harm at Downer,” said Rebecca. “If someone asks what that is, I would say it’s to advocate for people to have a safe workplace.”

Rebecca sees her role as part of a broader evolution in how manufacturing approaches workplace safety, moving beyond rigid rules to a more comprehensive understanding.

“I think it’s good because it’s a different era of manufacturing now and I bring a more people-focused lens,” said Rebecca. “We’re building on what’s already there and having a more holistic approach to safety rather than just ‘don’t do this, you will hurt yourself.’”

Her background in disability advocacy services, where she assisted people with vocational barriers, shaped her people-first approach to workplace safety.

“They were talking about what people needed in home… And I thought, ‘I can really make a difference to someone.’”

Rebecca’s position uniquely bridges administrative and manufacturing environments, giving her insight into both worlds.

“I get a good mix of both—office administration and people contact. But I also have my foot in manufacturing because my position requires me to know what’s going on,” said Rebecca. “Raw material comes in and something useful goes out. The manufacturing industry exists because someone needs something.”

Being young and female in a male-dominated industry presents challenges that Rebecca acknowledges openly while recognising the support she’s received.

“Rail manufacturing is such a male dominated industry,” said Rebecca. “Often being a young female in a very subject matter expert environment is challenging. Men have completely supported me in my career journey. It is disempowering when you know you’re the odd one out.”

Her strategy includes preparation and building alliances with colleagues and management.

“I’ll have a quick conversation with my manager before meetings… Because then I know when I go in there, I’m backed,” said Rebecca.

One of Rebecca’s most exciting experiences has been witnessing large-scale manufacturing projects come to life in the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program.

“I stand out and watch a 40-tonne wagon be lifted. I don’t think there will ever be a day when I won’t be shocked by that.”

Looking forward, Rebecca is advancing her qualifications and embracing technological change in safety management.

“Our plan is to take things from paper into technology-based systems,” said Rebecca. “I’m now starting my diploma in Workplace Health and Safety.”

When asked what advice she would give to young women considering manufacturing, Rebecca emphasises the value of technical skills.

“Get a trade. Do the stepping stones to get it first. Go and get a cert two in engineering. Pick those subjects at school, get things started early,” said Rebecca. “Even if you don’t end up pursuing a trade, these are life skills.”

Rebecca’s journey exemplifies how manufacturing is evolving to incorporate diverse perspectives and approaches, creating not just safer workplaces, but more human-centred ones.

“People get in their minds that you do the trade and then you’re there forever. It can also be a stepping stone,” said Rebecca—a perspective that encapsulates her view of manufacturing as a dynamic field of opportunity.