Women in Construction
MY CAREER IN HOUSEBUILDING
According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS) approximately 15% of the workforce in construction is made up of women. This figure hasn’t changed much since I started out in housebuilding as a Quantity Surveyor in 1994.
Why don’t more women work in construction?
To mark Women In Construction Week (3 to 9 March 2024) and my thirtieth year in the industry, I thought I’d reflect on what I have gained from having a career in construction.
I love that my job is never dull. I have never been bored and I love the exhilaration and challenge of dealing with a constantly evolving set of circumstances. No two days have ever been the same.
I love the kinship that comes from being part of a team – at project level or part of a company. I love working together to achieve a successful outcome, in what is often a uniquely challenging operating environment.
I’m constantly inspired by the people around me. In construction, you are surrounded by experts in their field – from funders and lawyers to specialist consultants and subcontractors – which is humbling, exciting, creative and entrepreneurial in equal measure.
I’ve learnt resilience, empathy, confidence and adaptability. I’ve learnt to be a risk taker and mitigator. I’m a critical thinker, decision maker, listener, problem solver and negotiator. I can talk to anyone and everyone.
I have never been pigeonholed. The breadth of experience I have gained from working in every discipline of property development, has enabled me to acquire the skills to run a viable and profitable business. Skills that could take me anywhere.
I have always had a clear path to progression, which I think is vital for everyone, regardless of where you are in your career journey. In recent years I’ve particularly enjoyed being involved with the HBF and NHQB and the opportunities that brings to shape the industry going forwards.
I have developed lasting relationships – personal and professional. I met my husband from being in the industry and have a family. My two best friends both work in construction. I have mentors who have generously provided support over the years and continue to offer sage advice. I can honestly say that working in construction has had a positive impact on my life.
Would I have got all this from a career in a different industry? Possibly. But the point is, I didn’t. It all came because of my career in the construction industry. There are so many opportunities out there, I would encourage all women to see if a career in construction is for them.