After graduating as a civil engineer, Elizabeth worked in design then construction management around Sydney Harbour.

As workplaces were not structured for working mothers, Elizabeth moved into academe. In 2009, after a rich career in universities, Elizabeth resigned from the position of Pro Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Health.

Since 1998, Elizabeth has been on the Board of RedR Australia (a humanitarian agency for international emergency relief) and is currently the Chair. She is also Chair of the Cambodian Children’s Trust Australia (CCTA).

Elizabeth has been an active member of Engineers Australia. Currently she is Chair of the Engineering Accreditation Board, and Deputy Chair of the Washington Accord providing Australian engineers with educational recognition across 19 countries. She has also completed a law degree.

In 2004 Elizabeth was appointed an O cer of the Order of Australia (AO) for ‘service to engineering education through the design and implementation of innovative academic programs,

to professional associations, and to enhancing the status of women in the profession and promoting it as a career option’. She currently juggles consultancies with Defence and Charles Sturt University, her volunteer activities and four grandchildren.