Making her mark on and off the field

"Thiess did something not many employers would do for me. If they hadn't supported me, choosing between footy and work would've been tough."

Thiess employee Mariah Denman is striving for success in all she does. She was named Brisbane Broncos National Rugby League Women’s (NRLW) player of the year for 2023, while also pursuing a leadership career with Thiess in maintenance.

It can be challenging to balance personal pursuits with professional responsibilities. Mariah is an outstanding example of how it is possible to realise personal goals and achieve significant professional milestones.

Mariah started playing rugby league in her hometown of Blackwater in 2015, commencing an apprenticeship with Thiess as a diesel fitter soon after.

She gained valuable skills as an apprentice and moved into a supervisor role in planning and scheduling, demonstrating her aptitude for strategic thinking and problem-solving.
In addition to her professional ambitions, Mariah remained deeply passionate and committed to rugby league. "I have always loved to play and wanted to continue," she said.
Recognising Mariah's talent and passion for rugby league, Thiess supported her goal of continuing to play for the Brisbane Broncos. During the season, Mariah worked from the Brisbane office, enabling her to balance her work responsibilities with her training schedule.

Mariah said, "Living in Brisbane means I’m away from my family, and that can be tough, but with the support of Thiess, the decision was a lot easier."
Despite the challenge of being away from her family, Mariah persevered and was determined to succeed both on and off the field.

"Thiess did something not many employers would do for me. If they hadn't supported me, choosing between footy and work would've been tough," she says.

Mariah's story is a great example of how a workplace that supports its people can help them succeed in both professional and personal ambitions. It's proof that with the right support, you can chase your dreams and still succeed in your job.

“I’ve been given an opportunity to take on two careers at one time and I wanted to achieve something that was bigger than me.”

Mariah has re-signed in 2024 to play with the Broncos and with the season commencing, it’s exciting times for the whole team. Good luck and all the best for the upcoming NRLW season Mariah!