With a strong passion for physics and engineering, getting involved in nuclear science was inevitable for Wollongong’s Dr Joanne Lackenby. On the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day, Joanne is one of a few remarkable women highlighting some in-roads made into male-dominated industries.
Joanne is the Licensing Officer and Environmental Co-ordinator for ANSTO’s OPAL research reactor, monitoring OPAL’s regulatory compliance. She said it was always a dream to work at ANSTO.
“I have always been fascinated by all things nuclear so that was the burning passion that steered me toward my career at ANSTO. But I’ve got a background in environmental engineering as well. Basically, I’m a nuclear-loving, tree-hugging hippie,” she laughed.
Joanne insists it hasn’t been difficult forging a career path in an industry that is pre-dominantly populated by men. “I’ve been pretty lucky in the roles I have landed at ANSTO and working with the guys has been great so it’s been an even playing field for me.”
But the main challenge, according to Joanne, has been getting more women interested in the field of nuclear science and engineering.
“I’ve always been quite passionate about nuclear science so it was quite easy for me to get involved.
Most women, though, are only interested in the biology and chemistry side of the sciences - they don’t care about physics. Because of that, many women have a negative view of anything to do with nuclear and are quick to believe the scare-mongering of anti-nuclear groups.
“I think if we educate more women about this incredible field of science, we could see more of them pursuing careers in this industry. That is one of the goals of the ‘Women in Nuclear’ group that I am involved with,” Joanne explained.
“We are looking to branch out into the community to educate more people about the benefits of nuclear science.”
On a personal level, Joanne says the great lifestyle of Wollongong helps her balance the demands of her challenging career.
“Living in an awesome place like Wollongong definitely helps keep you grounded,” she said. “I love the beach and I love the bush – it’s got everything. It’s a great lifestyle.”
International Women’s Day (IWD) was first celebrated in Europe in 1911 as a campaign for women's rights. Today, IWD is marked across the globe with thousands of events to inspire women and celebrate the achievements made in reaching gender equality.
Published: 08/03/2011