Our people

 We prioritise the development of Indigenous talent through a strong training culture, focused on “growing our own” by via structured cadetships, apprenticeships, mentoring pathways, and on-the-job development programs. We support Indigenous employees to build sustainable and rewarding careers within the construction and infrastructure sectors. Read more about our people below.  

James Widders‑Leece is a proud Anaiwan man and Project Manager at BYCC, where he leads the delivery of major government infrastructure projects. His journey reflects both personal determination and the strength of Indigenous-led pathways into construction.

James joined BY Group in 2023 after being inspired by the organisation’s vision to create meaningful opportunities for Indigenous people in the industry. What began as a role as Project Engineer quickly became a platform for growth, exposing him to complex civil works, major building projects, and increasingly senior responsibilities. Today, through his secondment to BYCC Alliance, he is responsible for leading teams, managing stakeholders, and delivering high-impact projects that leave a lasting legacy in communities.

A key milestone in James’ career has been stepping into a Project Manager role. This opportunity has expanded both his technical capability and his leadership skills. He takes particular pride in managing projects that require collaboration across diverse teams, where strong communication and cultural understanding are essential to success.

For James, working with BYCC Alliance is about more than project delivery. As an Indigenous professional, he values being part of a business that actively invests in community outcomes and career pathways. He sees his role as contributing to something bigger - helping to create opportunities for future generations of Indigenous talent and demonstrating what is possible through representation and leadership.

Summer Dann is a proud Aboriginal woman and Project Engineer with BYCC, known for her determination, growth mindset, and commitment to lifting others as she progresses in her career.

Summer’s journey into construction began in 2019 as a work experience student with BY Group, with no prior intention of entering the industry. However, exposure to construction projects quickly changed her path, leading her to pursue a career aligned with the sector. Starting as a cadet, she progressed through roles including Contract Administrator before becoming a Project Engineer, gaining hands-on experience across civil, solar, refurbishment, and new build projects.

Now working across BY Group and BYCC Alliance, Summer plays a key role in delivering complex projects, including high-security Defence environments, while continuing to develop her technical and leadership capabilities. She credits her growth to a supportive environment where she is encouraged to challenge herself and take on new opportunities, noting that she is “constantly learning and being trusted with opportunities that push [her] forward.”

Summer’s connection to her work is deeply personal. She sees construction not only as a career, but as a platform for broader impact, particularly for Indigenous women entering the industry. Being part of an Indigenous-owned and led business has given her a strong sense of belonging and purpose, reinforcing the idea that “when one succeeds, we all succeed.” Through her journey, she is helping to create visibility, opportunity, and confidence for the next generation.