Jobs and Careers Winter 2022/23 - 9

How many women work in construction?
Women make up around 14% of the overall workforce,
but this number is steadily increasing. 37% of new
entrants into construction from higher education are
women, while the proportion of women in senior roles
has nearly trebled over the past 15 years.
According to the CITB 'Rethinking Recruitment' study,
the majority of women in construction find the industry
welcoming, open and diverse.
What's changing?
Organisations like the Supply Chain Sustainability School
have led the charge to make jobs and workplaces fairer,
inclusive and more respectful, with an increased focus
on nurturing and retaining high-performing staff from
all backgrounds.
Mental health is high on the agenda, with thousands of
workers now trained as mental health first aiders. Work
equipment and PPE is now tailored for women, and they
are positively encouraged to apply for on-site roles.
Leading industry figures place equality at the heart of
their business, recruiting from diverse groups to ensure
the positive changes in construction continue for years
to come.
Why should I join construction?
Would you enjoy the sense of accomplishment of
looking at a building and thinking, 'I helped build
that?' Are you interested in a well-paid career with
clear progression prospects?
If so, construction is perfect for you! With a huge
variety of opportunities available, from operating
drones to leading marketing campaigns, there's
something for everyone.
As Suzannah Nichol MBE, CEO of Build UK says,
" construction is an industry that goes out of its
way to help you achieve your potential. "
Celebrating women in construction
The industry is proud of the achievements of women
in construction. International Women in Engineering
Day, an annual event, showcases the accomplishments
of female engineers to inspire more to join. Women Into
Construction helps change the face of construction
to promote gender equality, normalising women's
position in the industry.
At Go Construct, our female STEM Ambassadors take
construction to the classroom, while our website
shares the stories of some of the inspirational women
in the industry.
"
Building a
fresh start in
construction
Mum-of-two Sian Walkey is one of those
inspirational women. She already studied, built up
a successful career and single-handedly raised
a family. But she wanted to go further. Keen to
take advantage of the many opportunities for
progression in construction, Sian took a Higher
Apprenticeship in Construction Management.
" I was grateful for the opportunity of gaining the
Higher Apprenticeship, " she said. " It made me
realise how much the industry has changed in the 12
years since I completed my Building Studies HNC. "
Sian studied how to use Building Information Modelling
(BIM) during her apprenticeship, an innovative
technique to design buildings and infrastructure.
" It was very useful learning about BIM. I think there's
a lack of understanding and knowledge with BIM, so
it's a very useful skill to have. "
"
Construction has something
for everyone; all projects
come with their own
challenges and surprises.
You'll never be bored! "
Sian has completed her apprenticeship and is now
embarking on her first role as a construction manager.
She's excited for her future in construction and how
the industry is embracing inclusivity. " It was nice to
see that there are more considerations regarding
personal development, emotional intelligence
and a clear understanding around mental health. "
There has definitely been
a shift in the industry. "
Whether you're a school leaver, a graduate, or looking to change career,
Go Construct has all the information you need, visit goconstruct.org
https://www.goconstruct.org/
Jobs and Careers Winter 2022/23

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Jobs and Careers Winter 2022/23
