UK’s first female rig driver proud to be HS2 history-maker
A 44-YEAR-OLD mother from Redditch has made history in the construction industry as the UK’s first ever female rig driver.
Natalie Smith, who now lives in Castle Bromwich, is one of a growing number of female construction workers helping to bring HS2 to Birmingham.
Just a few years ago, Natalie could see HS2 taking shape from her bedroom window, and felt inspired to help be a part of “history”.
Having previously worked as a forklift truck driver in a warehouse, she began researching construction-related roles that could set her on the path to a new start.
Natalie contacted engineering firm SB3, which was offering training courses on how to become piling operatives – a skilled role that involves driving steel columns into the ground.
Having aced the training programme, the Redditch mum became the first female in the UK to achieve rig driver status in September 2023 – and she says she “couldn’t be happier”.
Natalie said: “Apparently, I’m the first female in the UK to qualify as a rig driver, which makes me feel really proud of what I’ve achieved.
“On site, I am the only female in the rig team, but it doesn’t bother me, or the lads, everyone is just so supportive.
“My mum can’t believe the huge machines I drive, and my son asks every night, ‘How many holes have you dug today mum?’.”
Natalie works as part of a 14-person team on the HS2 route between Saltley and Curzon Street in Birmingham. She is currently leading the piling operation for the Duddeston Junction viaduct, which requires 110 piles.
She hopes that by sharing her story, she can empower other women to take up jobs in the construction industry. “It’s great to be doing something different,” she said.
“To play a part in building this new railway, that will stand for years to come, means I’m part of a moment in history and I love that idea.”