Maxi supports Women in Construction Week 2021
The construction industry offers fantastic career opportunities regardless of gender but with women representing just over 10% of employees in construction it is apparent that there is scope for more women to be encouraged into the industry.
To mark Women in Construction Week and to highlight the importance of diversity within the construction industry we spoke to some of our employees:
Claire MacKenzie – Marketing Manager
Having worked in the construction industry for over 25 years I haven’t experienced any negativity in my role due to the fact that I am a woman.
What does your day to day job involve and what do you enjoy the most?
The interesting thing about my job is no two days are the same. A typical day can include updating the web site, following up leads for construction contracts, completing PQQ and tender quality submissions and posting updates to our social media accounts.
Were you always passionate about pursuing a career in construction?
I was always interested in buildings, and in particular historic buildings. One of my first interviews after leaving university was for a marketing role in Balfour Beatty and I got the job. Since then I’ve worked for 2 other contractors and have thoroughly enjoyed my time working in the construction industry.
What advice would you give to women interested in a career in construction?
I think, regardless of gender, the construction industry is an exciting industry to work in. The career opportunities available in the industry must be promoted to schoolchildren to enable them to consider it a worthwhile industry to join. I know the CITB supports this initiative and we have a number of Construction Ambassadors within Maxi Construction.
Leanne Kilpatrick – Quantity Surveyor
Pursue your interest, do not be afraid to ask questions and be confident on what you think is the right decision. There is always somewhere or someone around that is willing to offer help.
What does your day to day job involve and what do you enjoy the most?
My day to day job involves building relationships with Clients and Subcontractors, site visits etc. I enjoy site visits and having a conversation with my site team as they give me the information that I need. I also gain some technical knowledge from my team throughout my visits.
Do you feel there is still a stigma in the construction industry regarding women working in construction?
No, I do sometimes feel like either Clients or Subcontractors are extra cautious on their behaviour or they have taken a different approach in certain scenarios because there is a woman in the team/present. This isn’t a bad thing at all, after all as this shows their respect towards women in the construction industry.
Have you ever experienced any negative comments when working?
No, so far I have received lots of encouragement and support from my employer & colleagues.
How important is it for more women to be encouraged into the industry?
In my opinion, women have the same ability as men do and sometimes beyond. Their ability to multitask, creativity and attentiveness will drive this industry to another level.
Lisa Aitken – Business Support Coordinator
I think outwith the industry there are still perceptions around gender specific roles but there are initiatives in place which are definitely helping towards changing those perceptions by getting involved with schools and colleges and showing the younger generation what options are available in construction.
What does your day to day job involve and what do you enjoy the most?
As Business Support Coordinator, my role is varied and provides me with an insight into various areas of the business. A typical day can include updating the web site and our social media accounts, completing PQQ and tender quality submissions, organising training for our employees and conducting Internal Audits to ensure that we continue to work in accordance with our Integrated Management System.
Were you always passionate about pursuing a career in construction?
No, construction was never an industry I considered; in 2003 my Guidance Teacher at High School made me aware of a work experience opportunity with Mace Group on the RBS Gogarburn HQ project and after a successful placement I ended up being employed with Mace until 2009. I tried venturing into other industries (Beauty and Telecommunications) but they weren’t for me; I started working with Maxi Construction in 2014 and have never looked back.
What advice would you give to women interested in a career in construction?
Irrespective of gender, skills, qualifications, and interests, the industry offers wide and varied roles with opportunities for career progression and skill development.
Maxi Construction