Interview: Cayla Bonner

Cayla Bonner always had dreams of a career as a forensic pathologist but happily fell into a life in the trades. Thanks to great work environments and loads of advice and encouragement, Cayla now couldn’t think of any job she’d rather do.

Read our latest Industry Women interview with Cayla, an electrical trade assistant who’s going places.

Please provide your name, job title and company name.

Cayla Bonner (Cayla Cicada), Trade Assistant, BM Electrical

How long have you spent in your current position?

Nine months.

What job did you have before your current role?

Truck driver / delivery person for a timber supplier.

To date, what has been your career highlight?

Getting to work on some big commercial sites, like Nido and a few Latham sites, with some super cool trades people. And getting to travel to Waiheke with Ben.

Who have you admired or learnt from the most in your career and why?

I admire all the other females in the industry or trades, and all the awesome colleagues and bosses who keep teaching me new things and giving me some useful tips and advice.

Are you doing what you thought you’d be doing when you were younger? If not, what type of job did you expect you would have?

I always wanted to be a forensic pathologist all through school and although it’s still something I’d love to do, I started in the trades and trucking six years ago and have fallen in love with the atmosphere so much that I don’t think I’d do anything else now.

What do you think is the most important quality or skill you need to succeed in your current role?

Presentation and safety, with a good understanding of getting the best results for the best outcome to suit everyone and anyone using our service.

What’s one thing you hope to achieve this year, either at work or in your personal life?

I hope to start my apprenticeship and hopefully travel when the borders open.

Do you have any tips or advice for those just starting out in the industry?

Don’t let anyone treat you any less because you don’t have the same knowledge as them yet, because one day you might just be ahead of them. Qualified trades people can still learn too so don’t be afraid to speak up if you think you have a quicker or easier way of doing something.