What is your current title for work?

Quantity Surveyor

Your current organisation for work:

Hawkins Construction

How many years have you been in the construction industry:

Since 2008 – 15 years

When did you decide working in construction was the thing you wanted to do:

I have grown up with Construction. With my Dad being a Project Manager, as a teenager I spent countless Saturdays on site learning and being fascinated with the processes. So when the time came to choose a career, I knew it would be in construction and Quantity Surveying was the best fit for my skills. I was fortunate that my degree allowed me to work alongside studying so I got the best of both! 

What are you most passionate about?

I love that the construction industry allows peoples from all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds to work together towards a common goal. No day is ever the same and every day is a school day! I enjoy being part of a team that can deliver prominent and innovative building projects. 

Why did you join NAWIC?

When a female work colleague told me about NAWIC, I instantly joined. I attended an event for International Women’s Day and was so inspired by the stories I felt I wanted to do more for the organisation and joined the committee. Whilst the industry has come on leaps and bounds in recognising women in construction, it is still a very male dominated industry & in the past I have been the only female on site. If I can play my part in changing that so more women are encouraged to join the industry, that is a result!

What would you like to see for the future of women in construction?

Women embedded in all roles in Construction – from on the tools, to running the sites, sitting in the board room as Directors, being the CEO’s! Women deserve to work in an industry that promotes equality, a respect for work-life balance and not having barriers put up when you have or decide to start a family.

Words of wisdom or tips for women at the start of or considering a career in construction:

Don’t compare your career journey with others – we all start at different routes. Some are quicker and some are slower.

Speak up & ask those questions – remember we all were new once! 

Don’t be afraid to come out of your comfort zone and stand your ground. Let your voice be heard!

What is your favourite thing to do for fun:

Having recently moved from the UK, in my free time I am out with my family exploring the beautiful things to see and do in Canterbury. Getting outside in nature and enjoying the outdoors.