Staffordshire women in construction discuss industry progression
To mark International Women’s Day (8th March), Solihull-based David Wilson Homes is celebrating the work that has been done to push for equality with more opportunities for women in construction.
Charlotte Graham (36) is the Assistant Site Manager at The Lapwings in Stafford. She has worked at David Wilson Homes for 10 years and has spent eight of those years on construction sites.
Charlotte said: “It has been an interesting time. When I first started, it was still quite rare for a female to be on site and I felt I had to prove myself more so than anyone else because of this.
“Back then I'd sometimes get questioned on my credentials, not just by trades but also from customers. Now, I know most of the trades and they respect me and understand I know what I'm doing so there has definitely been a shift in that time.
This year's theme for International Women’s Day is #GiveToGain. This theme emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase.
Whether through donations, knowledge, resources, infrastructure, visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring or time, contributing to women's advancement helps create a more supportive and interconnected world.
Charlotte added: “I do believe we have come a long way, although I think we also have a long way to go. It’s mainly people's perceptions that need to change. They might judge too quickly, think a woman can't know what they are talking about or can't do the same as our male counterparts.
“We can. It takes time to change people's minds but it's all in the proof for me and I just do my job to the best of my ability.”
Helen Lewis (44), originally from Bedfordshire, is the Managing Director of David Wilson Homes Mercia and is helping to lead the industry away from male-dominated environments.
Helen said: “The industry has changed dramatically in the past 20 years and is very different to when I was first employed. There may be the perception that housebuilding is still a male-dominated industry with little opportunity for women to succeed, but this is far from the truth.
“As one of several female Managing Directors within the industry, I am hoping that younger women can now see that these opportunities do exist and they are more than achievable regardless of gender.”
For details about the housebuilder and any nearby developments, call the sales team at 033 3355 8479 or visit the website at David Wilson Homes in Staffordshire.
