Breaking Barriers: How the ConstructHER Programme is Shaping the Future for Women in Construction

Inspiring Young Women to Build Careers in Construction

GRAHAM is on a mission to change the face of the construction industry with its ConstructHER programme, aiming to inspire more women to consider careers in this sector. With females representing just 15% of the UK construction workforce, this initiative is a beacon of hope and opportunity.

Holly and Niamh, participants of the ConstructHER programme

The programme offers hands-on experience, professional mentoring, and clear pathways into apprenticeships, running from January to May. It introduces participants to a variety of roles across the sector, from technical positions to project management.

Success Stories: Holly and Niamh

• Holly, a 16-year-old with a passion for maths, discovered her ideal career path in quantity surveying through ConstructHER. The programme provided her with industry exposure, including health and safety training and sustainability initiatives. Holly will begin working as an admin assistant in July while studying for an HNC in quantity surveying, with plans to progress into the commercial department as a trainee quantity surveyor.

• Niamh, also 16, initially unaware of the diversity of roles in construction, found her calling in design management. Her experience, including site visits and practical training, opened her eyes to the opportunities within the industry, leading her to secure employment through GRAHAM’s apprenticeship programme.

Debbie Rutherford, head of social impact and support services at GRAHAM Building North, emphasizes the importance of such programmes: "We want to show young women that construction is a viable and exciting career path. Holly and Niamh’s success demonstrates just how valuable programmes like ConstructHER can be."