What is your current job?

Programme Coordinator

What job did you want to do when you were younger?

Teacher

Describe a typical day in your current job

My day involves managing a master tracker of all our live projects that include all forecasted dates of key milestones of the projects. This tracker is the main point of reference between our internal teams and the client, so it is vital it is accurate and up to date with real time information.

Why did you choose construction as a career?

Have been a planner for several years, mainly focussing on resource planning. I saw this role as an exciting opportunity to expand my knowledge into a field I was unfamiliar with whilst utilising my existing skills and experience to further drive productivity and efficiency.

Did you have any reservations or concerns about joining the industry as a woman? Have these changed?

I was initially anxious about joining an industry that is seen as male driven, however I feel I am a valued member of the team who is given the opportunity to express my thoughts and opinions which are always listened to and taken on board.

What do you feel is the biggest challenge of being a woman working within construction?

I think the biggest challenge is feeling as though you won’t be welcomed in as part of the team or that your input will not be valued by your male peers. This is not the case! I feel accepted within the team and confident that I can express my views.

What is the favourite part of your job?

I really enjoy being able to work with a variety of different people daily. There is also the opportunity to visit live sites (pre Covid) which is an interesting day as you can see how all the internal processes come together to create the finished result.

What’s been the biggest surprise since joining the construction industry?

The levels of processes and planning involved to take a project from its initial inception to completion.

Would you recommend a career in construction to women? Why?

I would. I found that before moving into construction I was pigeonholed into resource planning positions that had little room for development or progression. There are a wide range of areas within the construction industry that will help you progress your skills and knowledge.

Do you have any advice to any woman who’s currently thinking about coming into the construction industry?

Go for it! I have really enjoyed my time so far working with Morris & Spottiswood and have made some amazing friends along the way!