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Initially studying teaching, Kellie pivoted into a Bachelor of Surveying, drawn by the balance of indoor and outdoor work. But it was only after gaining hands-on experience at a Newcastle-based multidisciplinary firm that she began to feel truly connected to the work.

“My interest was ignited by being curious about how communities were structured and the intricate and often complex processes that shape our built environment,” Kellie reflects.

That curiosity evolved into a broader passion for land, community, and environment, leading her down a multidisciplinary path combining surveying, project management, and town planning. This approach, she explains, allows her to “balance technical delivery with environmental responsibility, while also enjoying meaningful interaction with people, be it staff or clients.”

Driving Change and Building Teams

Today, Kellie leads a team of over 100 professionals at Beveridge Williams. As Executive Director and NSW Manager, she oversees residential estates, infrastructure corridors, and mixed-use developments for government and private clients. Her current focus is on her staff, project strategy, client relationships, and brand growth.

One of her proudest achievements has been guiding the integration of her former company, Trehy Ingold Neate, into Beveridge Williams, along with other subsequent mergers. “It was a complex organisational and cultural merger,” she shares. “It demonstrated the importance of clear leadership, communication and people-first values.”

Through that experience, Kellie says she learned one of the most powerful skills a leader can have: how to truly listen.

Authenticity as a Leadership Strength
 

Mentorship has played a vital role throughout Kellie’s career. Early on, it was male mentors who helped her build technical confidence and resilience. In more recent years, a network of female leaders has shaped her leadership philosophy: authentic, empowering, and people focused. 

“It’s important to be yourself,” she says. “Early in my career, I used to try and hide the fact that I was a woman on construction sites. I thought being caring and softly spoken might be seen as a negative. But now, it’s more about celebrating your diversity and being proud of it”. 

This mindset has fuelled Kellie’s commitment to mentoring through BOSSI (Board of Surveying and Spatial Information), Consulting Surveyors NSW, and other industry programs.

Breaking Barriers, Then Lifting Others Up

Kellie’s leadership journey hasn’t come without obstacles. She recalls the early challenges of feeling overlooked and having to fight for visibility and opportunity. “It drove my ambition,” she says. “It shaped my leadership focus on inclusivity and backing yourself.” 

That drive led to a major milestone: becoming the first female President of Consulting Surveyors NSW,  a role she holds with pride and responsibility.

When asked what helped her build the confidence to back herself, Kellie points to time, maturity and experience. “Mentors helped. So did industry groups like Young Surveyors. These sorts of groups that you can be part of helps with your career progression but also personal development.”

Changing the Industry, One Voice at a Time

Kellie has seen encouraging shifts in the profession. There is a noticeable increase in female participation, especially at the graduate level. There’s also more visibility of women in leadership roles. Kellie states, "Our Surveyor General and President of BOSSI, Narelle Underwood, is a ground breaker.”

But she’s clear that there’s still work to be done. For example, investing in outreach programs targeting high school and university students, and fostering inclusive cultures where women are supported to lead. 

Words for the Next Generation

To the young women considering a future in engineering, Kellie’s advice is:

 “Don’t be intimidated by the statistics - your contribution is needed. Back yourself. Ask questions. Know that leadership can look like you.”

She adds: “Your voice and perspective are what will shape the future of our profession and our community”

Kellie Hassab’s journey reflects the quiet strength and determination of so many women who are not only building careers in engineering but also reshaping the culture around them. Her story is proof that leadership doesn’t have to fit a mold, and that inclusive, values-led voices are making real change.

While there’s still work to be done, the industry is moving in the right direction, thanks to people like Kellie, who continue to lead with authenticity, empathy, and purpose.