International Women's Day

Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m Claire Kettle, I’ve worked in the construction industry for 15 years, the last 5 years I’ve worked at Careys in the finance function. My current role is Finance Director for the Careys Civil Engineering Division, my main responsibilities are providing financial guidance and leadership to the division to ensure accurate financial reporting, cash flow management and achievement of our strategic targets.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

For me it’s a day to recognise the achievements and progress that women have made. Its also a reminder that there’s still a long way to go to achieve the basic human right of gender equality.

What would you change about the assumptions made of women in the construction industry?

When I started my career in the construction industry women performed on the whole lower-level administration roles, over the last 15 years I have seen significant change, working with amazing women performing across a variety of different roles at all levels of an organisation. From my experience the industry continues striving to attract, retain and develop women and so I would change the assumption that women aren’t successful in the construction industry, because we are!

Tell us a bit about yourself

My name is Chloe Simpson, I’ve been working with Careys for 4 years now, originally as a Project Support Co-ordinator. I was given the opportunity to learn new skills and have since moved into the Cost Specialist Department as an Assistant Cost Specialist.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

International Women’s Day for me is celebrating women’s successes all around the world, as well as the individual contributions to society that we each make. It reminds us of how far we’ve come and highlights the importance of supporting each other and our achievements so far.

What would you change about the assumptions made of women in the construction industry?

I am very proud to be a woman working in construction. I am surrounded by exceptional colleagues who enhance my working experience and inspire me each day. I’ve been in the construction industry for the last 8 years; within this time, I have noticed a positive change in attitudes and behaviours towards women in this industry, which motivates me for what the future holds.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m Julie Welch and my role is Chief People Officer - I manage the HR and Learning function in the Carey Group and ensure peoples experience of working at Careys is the best we can collectively deliver. I have been with Careys for 4 years.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

IWD this year for me is celebrating progress made – especially acknowledging all those who uplift and empower women - while also focusing on the work yet to be done and encouraging more young talent into this great sector of ours.

What would you change about the assumptions made of women in the construction industry?

Women in the construction industry still account for less than 20% of the workforce across the entire industry (and on site workforce it is lower still) – so I would change the assumption of women being seen in support roles and more on the front line site roles. There are some good networks for women developing, providing mentors encouraging women to stay and develop fulfilling careers in the industry.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I'm Taylor, a Quantity Surveyor and I've been working at Careys for five years now.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

International Women's Day is a chance to honour individuals who have been at the head of the struggle against gender discrimination and injustices in legal, civil, and human rights, as well as those who sacrificed their freedom or lives doing so, and to celebrate girls and women everywhere especially in the field of construction.

What would you change about the assumptions made of women in the construction industry?

Having more female role models to help promote the industry for women, not just men, and show women they can be involved equally.