Women in Construction Spotlight
The construction industry continues to expand and develop, and a more diverse workforce delivers high-quality civil engineering projects to the UK.
Women comprise 15% of the national construction workforce, from groundworkers and engineers to project managers and Directors. The introduction of women into the industry is steadily increasing, creating a more inclusive workforce and generating more equal opportunities for everyone.
Mitigating stigmas and promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion are changing attitudes, driving a momentum of women from Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education backgrounds joining the industry.
We caught up with Nattalie and Rhian, two of our female groundworkers and plant operators, to get insight into their industry perception and experience. They are based on our wheel lathe civil works project for Transport for Wales’ Canton maintenance depot, where Cairn Cross is the main contractor.
What attracted you both to the Construction and Rail industry?
Nattalie shares that being treated as equals, having their knowledge and experience valued by their fellow employees, and having the same equal pay opportunities as men is a key driver of the industry’s appeal.
Rhian wanted to prove that women can do the same work as men. Traditional stereotypes, reinforced by shared public attitudes, have previously been a deterrent for women joining the industry. Firsthand experiences, however, are evolving and being addressed through fresh leadership directions and third-party charity involvements. Construction companies are focusing on the value of a gender-neutral workforce and creating shared opportunities in a more accessible and adaptable way.
How did you end up in the roles you are in today?
Nattalie and Rhian started as civil ground workers for a couple of years, then worked up to plant operatives. They currently control and operate the industrial plant fleet to assist in constructing the new facility in Wales.
They continue progressing on their career ladder by undertaking training and qualifications to improve and harness their skills continuously.
What are your career aspirations?
Nattalie would like to continue her professional development and become a supervisor.
Rhian is looking into becoming a site health and safety representative and doing her NEBOSH qualification.
Cairn Cross and the building sector recognise the importance and value of investing in the next generation of civil engineering workers. We at Cairn Cross will be behind and fully support Natalie and Rhian’s success as they prepare to become the next generation of leaders.
Any words of wisdom for other women wanting to pursue a career in the construction or rail industry?
Jointly, they both share, “You can do it!” Don’t be put off because there are more and more opportunities for women in the industry. There is also much more support around stereotyped sexism on the site, so this shouldn’t put people off”.
Cairn Cross is continuously revising its equal opportunities policy and undertaking a series of activities to deliver diversity, equality, and inclusion practices that will improve its workforce and the communities it serves.
If you’re interested in reading more employee spotlights, head to our blog. We catch up with a different employee every quarter to learn about their role and aspirations within the industry. We have previously spotlighted Lisa, Design Director, Sam, Office Administration Manager, and Fiona, Receptionist and Head Office Administrator.