11/01/2026
Congratulations, Amanda!
We’re incredibly proud to see Amanda Cole featured as one of the Faces of VU by Victoria University.
As NVC Precast’s SHEQ Systems Manager, Amanda is approaching her 15th year with us, and this recognition couldn’t be more deserved. Her journey from rural NSW to higher education, industry leadership, and now PhD research reflects perseverance, curiosity, and a genuine commitment to growth.
Amanda’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when opportunity meets determination. Her achievements, both academically and professionally, continue to inspire our team, and we’re excited to see how her research into AI and precast concrete will shape the future of our industry.
Congratulations on this well-earned recognition, Amanda. We’re so proud to have you as part of the NVC Precast family.
Hi, I’m Amanda Cole. I grew up in rural New South Wales, attending a small country school, and have lived in Melbourne’s western suburbs since moving here in the 1990s. My parents didn’t graduate from high school, so being one of the first in my family to attend university – and now having grown-up children at university too – is something I’m deeply proud of. Everything Victoria University stands for – accessibility, diversity and opportunity – feels like a reflection of my own story.
My connection with VU spans decades, but my most recent chapter began with a very practical need: my job required business analytics skills. I discovered the Master of Business Analytics at an Open Day and enrolled immediately, drawn to the flexibility that allowed me to balance full-time work and family life.
In my first unit, I found myself coding. I hadn’t even heard of the software, let alone downloaded it. I remember thinking, “I’m not a programmer!” But with the incredible support of VU’s lecturers, I persevered – and that decision changed the trajectory of my life.
Alongside my studies, I developed coding skills, ran workshops, and volunteered as President of the Data Analytics Student Association – something I never imagined myself doing, but felt fully supported in every step of the way by VU.
I completed my Master of Business Analytics at the City Tower campus in 2023, which opened the door to an entirely new path. I’m now undertaking a PhD and have been awarded a National Industry-based PhD grant, researching how AI can optimise radiant heat curing processes in precast concrete. It’s been an incredible opportunity to combine my studies with meaningful industry work.
Studying at VU hasn’t just changed my career – it’s reshaped how I see myself. I now view myself as an analyst, a writer, a researcher and an emerging expert, with one published article and another underway. I feel empowered, supported and excited for what’s ahead – and I’m genuinely loving the journey.