KingKira managing director Tammy O’Connor has won the Woman of the Year award at the 2025 Women in Industry Awards. The biggest honour of the night, the Woman of the Year was the ultimate accolade dished out at a gala event held at the Carousel in Melbourne.
Earlier in the evening O’Connor took out the Business Development of the Year award, which made her eligible for the final gong of the night.
The 2025 Women in Industry Awards have recognised and celebrated some of the most inspiring and accomplished women working across Australia’s manufacturing, mining, engineering, transport, energy, and construction sectors. The awards brought together industry leaders, innovators, and advocates to honour the women driving real change in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
This year’s winners represent a broad cross-section of industry, united by their excellence, leadership, and commitment to creating more inclusive and forward-thinking workplaces.
The 2025 Women in Industry Awards winners are:
- Woman of the Year: Tammy O’Connor – KingKira Group
- Business Development Success of the Year: Tammy O’Connor – KingKira Group
- Industry Advocacy Award: Eileen Breen – NTEX
- Mentor of the Year: Tash Fee – Clough
- Safety Advocacy Award: Mandeep Singh – Ego Pharmaceuticals
- Rising Star of the Year: Jennifer Clements – Consultex
- Excellence in Transport: Kirryn Crossman – SMEC
- Excellence in Engineering: Stacey Daniel – Board Presence
- Excellence in Manufacturing: Naomi Elliott – Concept Labs
- Excellence in Construction: Isolde Piet – Suburban Connect
- Excellence in Energy: Suzanne Shipp – APA Group
- Excellence in Mining: Becky May Felstead – Strong Minds, Strong Mines
O’Connor’s leadership, vision, and impact are redefining what’s possible for women in the mining and civil construction sectors. Upon receiving the main award, O’Connor was humbled by the experience.
“The first time was scary, but the second time is even scarier,” she said when accepting the award.
Speaking about the importance of women leading differently, O’Connor said it was important to drive change and inspire future generations to break traditional boundaries.
“I think it is important that women lead the industry, and I think we do things a lot differently. Standing up here for the next generation because back in the day growing up my mum didn’t work, my grandmother didn’t work either, and now we see other women in the industry, in leadership, and they can see women can do more than the things we are told we should be doing,” she said.
Prime Creative Media Chief Operating Officer Christine Clancy said the awards continue to play a vital role in recognising the achievements of women who are breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations.
“These awards celebrate not only technical excellence but also the courage, resilience and leadership it takes to create lasting impact. Each winner is an inspiration and a powerful reminder of what’s possible when diversity is embraced,” Clancy said.
The Women in Industry Awards are hosted by Prime Creative Media and are proudly supported by Atlas Copco Group, Fulton Hogan, Kenter, and Paccar Australia, all of which are committed to advancing gender equality and innovation across the industrial landscape.