Careers in Construction: Breaking Barriers and Finding Opportunity

The construction industry has long been seen as a predominantly male-dominated field, but that perception is changing.

With diverse roles, exciting challenges, and increasing opportunities for women, construction offers a fulfilling and rewarding career path.

One such individual who discovered her passion for the industry is Olivia Chadwick, Trainee Operations Manager at UK Electrical Installations (UKE).

Her journey highlights the possibilities within the sector and showcases the broader career opportunities available in construction.

Discovering a Career in Construction: Olivia’s Unexpected Journey

When Olivia Chadwick first entered the world of construction, it wasn’t part of her initial career plan.

With a degree in forensic psychology and masters qualification in domestic and sexual violence, she had been pursuing a completely different path.

Like many graduates, Olivia felt uncertain about her future, even after completing her education.

“I always felt a bit lost when thinking about what I wanted to do for a career, I didn’t have much awareness of the range of careers that were available, so I followed my academic interests and continued with further education.”

– Olivia explains.

However, Olivia’s perspective changed when she accepted a temporary role at UKE as a Project Administrator, simply looking for work experience. What she found was an industry full of opportunities, diversity, and personal growth.

“Taking that role at UKE really opened my eyes. I had no idea how many different careers existed within the construction industry. I went in thinking I’d be doing basic administrative work, but soon realised I was part of something much bigger.”

As Olivia settled into her role, she discovered that construction was about more than just building sites.

Her responsibilities, such as raising purchase orders, managing risk assessments, and securing permits, played a crucial role in keeping projects running smoothly.

The variety of tasks and the dynamic nature of the industry made each day an opportunity to learn something new, which gradually fuelled her passion for the work.

A Growing Passion for the Construction Industry

“Although I loved completing my degree and masters, I realised that construction excites me in ways those industries never could. It’s so diverse, and I love coming into work each day, knowing that what I do matters and that I’m contributing to the success of major projects.

 

The variety of tasks I’ve been involved in is incredible. From working with project managers and suppliers to managing complex data and regulatory requirements, I’ve learned so much in a short time. Each project brings something new, and that’s what I love most about it.”

For Olivia, what began as a temporary job has blossomed into a long-term career which she is excited to pursue.

UKE’s supportive environment and commitment to employee development have played a huge role in empowering her to grow both professionally and personally.

The Growing Opportunities for Women in Construction

The construction industry has made strides in creating more opportunities for women, and Olivia is passionate about encouraging others to explore these options.

“This is my first time working in construction, and it’s clear that there are great opportunities for women. From an outside perspective, the industry seems male-dominated and daunting, but that’s changing.

UKE is committed to increasing the number of women we employ, especially in technical roles. There are so many roles to consider, and it’s not just about putting on a hard hat. I believe we need to challenge the gendered view of construction and encourage more women to get involved.”

Debbie Fellows Operations Manager at UKE explains UKE’s commitment to women in the electrical industry…

As an employer UKE is quite unique in that 21% of our workforce are women (compared with the electrical industry average of just 12%).

The electrical trade is the 2nd most underrepresented trade in the construction sector, with only 4,177 registered female electricians in the UK, making up just 1.73% of the sector.

As both the energy and construction sector of which we uphold needs to adapt for the needs of the future, it is critical that we upskill as many technicians as possible for a green economy, and getting more females into technical roles has a part to play in that shift.

As an SME, we are committed to challenging this status quo and are actively working to bring more women into the electrical industry.

At UKE, women are supported to thrive in a variety of roles, including electrical engineering, project management, electrical design, finance, health and safety, social responsibility and sustainability.

Skills and Career Progression in Construction

The construction industry provides excellent opportunities for career progression.

Since starting at UKE Olivia has taken on more responsibilities and gained new skills, helping her grow professionally.

“I started on a temporary 12-month contract at UKE to gain work experience. I didn’t want a permanent job because I wanted to study for my masters at the end of the 12 months.

 

When the time arrived for me to do my masters UKE offered flexible working conditions so that I could continue my role on a part-time basis.

 

I felt so supported and happy in my role at UKE that when I completed my masters I asked about a permanent full time role in the company.

 

I wasn’t only offered a permanent role, but I was also offered a promotion from project administrator to trainee operations manager

 

The new role is very exciting. Its hard to describe the breadth of what it covers. I am learning so much and being mentored by a great team.

 

I have already taken on the role of welfare officer helping to implement our Mental Health Scheme.

I have been enrolled on a sustainable business skills course this year with a view to completing my PIEMA (practitioner certificate in environmental management) qualification next year.

Every day I learn something new. UKE don’t only support their staff, they encourage them to learn and empower them at every opportunity”

Encouraging Graduates to Explore Construction

For students or graduates unsure of their next steps, Olivia has some advice: don’t overlook the construction industry.

“There are so many others out there like me, who felt they needed to continue with education but didn’t know what they wanted to do after. What many don’t realise is how transferable their skills are. If you’re still wondering ‘Where do I go from here?’, I’d encourage you to look at construction. It’s easy to write off as a career path, but once you explore it, you’ll find something for everyone.”

Bright Sparks: Building a Career in Construction

Olivia’s story is a testament to the exciting and rewarding careers available in construction. With companies like UKE actively supporting diversity and offering pathways for career progression, the industry is opening its doors to more people than ever before. Whether you’re a graduate looking for your next move or someone considering a career change, construction could be the opportunity you’ve been searching for.

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