Building bridges in a ‘men-only’ world
AN ESTIMATED 400, 000 workers must be recruited every year for the next five years to build enough homes to meet demand.
And because women make up just one in seven workers in the construction industry, recruiters are keen to use this opportunity to redress the balance.
Tamsin Courtney-Coles, who has worked for construction giants Bovis and Redrow, says the industry can offer a rewarding and well-paid career.
Tamsin, a building services computer-aided design (CAD) manager, says: ‘A career in construction is often overlooked,particularly by women, but the stereotypes are outdated, and with specialist skills you can earn a lot of money.
‘There’s a huge need [within it] for more professionals with specialist qualifications.’
Tamsin initially wanted to be a vet, but changed her mind after taking an administrative job at a design and construction firm.
The 37- year- old, who hails from Southampton, studied for AutoCAD 2D and 3D design qualifications at night school and started work as the only woman in a drawing office of 75 men.
‘It was intimidating initially, but only as intimidating as it would be for a man stepping into an office of 75 women,’ she says.
‘ I love the variety, and it’s satisfying to be able to contribute to a major building project, or to something that can make a difference to people’s lives.’
Paul Payne, managing director of the construction and rail recruitment specialist One Way,says: ‘Shortages in construction are reaching critical levels, with roles like project managers and estimators in high demand.
‘To have any chance of filling the void we need to recruit many more women.
‘Experience isn’t necessarily a prerequisite at entry level or to obtain an apprenticeship. With the right aptitude you could move up the ranks quickly.’
Construction firms are also increasingly hiring people from other industries.
Paul adds: ‘ People with accounting and mathematical skills are being recruited into roles requiring skills like this.’
Construction sector pay averages £ 37, 500, rising to £57,500 for senior appointments according to totaljobs.com. For more careers information see goconstruct.org.