Women in Construction Week: ‘Talent – not gender – is what truly builds great projects’

The construction sector has long been viewed as a male dominated industry, however thankfully times are changing.

We are now seeing more and more women entering the sector and seeing the opportunities it can offer for a long and fulfilling career.

To mark Women in Construction Week, from March 1 to 7, we spoke to our female colleagues about their experiences working across DPL Group and their views on the future of the industry.

Kirsty Froud, an Assistant Account Manager, sees being a woman in construction as an opportunity to thrive.

“Being a woman in this industry builds resilience, confidence and credibility,” she said.

“And when you succeed, it opens doors for the women coming up behind you.

“There’s something powerful about thriving in a space where you’re not the expected norm.

“It pushes you, strengthens you and proves that talent – not gender – is what truly builds great projects and maintains buildings that communities rely on.”

Meanwhile, Angela Catchpole, HR and Finance Administrator, said being a woman in the construction sector gave her the chance to ‘reshape the future’.

She said: “I think women bring a different vision and flair to a male-dominant environment, enabling them to grow and change the future.

“Being a woman in this industry inspires me because I am helping reshape the future. Every day a woman on site proves that determination, skill and knowledge matter more than stereotypes.”

Gemma Small, who works in Facilities and Maintenance Contract Support, said construction is a ‘brilliant place for women’ and that there are a host of roles to take on beyond the traditional building site.

She said: “What inspires me most about being a woman in the construction sector is helping to change perceptions.

“When urgent issues arise, whether it’s a heating fault in a school or maintenance in a business, being the person who calmly coordinates the solution builds trust and demonstrates that women belong in these roles.

“Seeing women confidently manage projects, engineers and client relationships reinforces that there is space for us at every level.”

Josie Street, Helpdesk Contracts Support, said the best thing about being a woman in construction was ‘seeing barriers broken’.

She added: “For future generations of women entering the construction industry, the best advice is to believe in your capability, continuously build your skills, find people that support you and don’t let anyone make you feel like you don’t ‘belong’ because you absolutely do, and the industry is better with you in it.”

Credit controller Charlotte Allen said she was inspired by other women in construction, making a difference to the industry every day.

“Their bravery stands out most of all,” she said.

“It shouts out a high level of resilience, grit and determination – the willingness to step into a traditionally male-dominated industry, take on physically demanding work and block out the noise of doubt or stereotype. 

“By doing so, they’re not just proving they can do the job; they’re demonstrating how far we have come with equality.”

Administration Assistant Abi Crawford said the construction offers women ‘so much more than people expect’.

“For me, it’s being part of an industry that’s evolving,” she said.

“Construction has traditionally been male-dominated, but more women are stepping into all areas – including finance, leadership, procurement and much more, which is great to see and be a part of.”

Ellie Bloomfield, Accounts Assistant, said there were too many women in construction that had inspired her to name just one.

“Being surrounded by so many strong minded women has encouraged me to continue developing my skills and aim higher in my career,” she said.

If hearing our team’s stories has inspired you to consider a career in the industry, take a look at our latest vacancies here.