Short Bio

I have worked for Carey Building Contractors for the past 7 years, undertaking the role of Bid Manager and Contract Coordinator. I have a unique perspective of construction projects having trained in Architecture, worked in practice in both the UK and Ireland in the early years of my career before working for a main contractor in tendering and contracts. Understanding various stakeholder perspectives enables me to take an objective approach to projects, recognising the various complexities, challenges and opportunities which need to be considered. I am a strong advocate for part-time learning, having completed my BA Hons in Architecture in the UK over 5 years (part time) whilst working full time in an architectural practice. I have also completed a PGDip in Construction Law and Contract Administration in Trinity College (part time), and I am near completion of a MSc in Project Management with ATU Sligo (part time). I am particularly interested in contract coordination and administration and I am delighted to be a member of the CIF ‘Procurement, Tendering and Contractual Matters’ sub-committee.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I absolutely love the diversity that a role in construction can bring. One day I can be writing a methodology for a tender submission, another I could be reviewing a draft contract, or discussing window details with the design team on site. I love the depth and breadth of the potential for learning and personal development as there are so many avenues you can choose to explore.

Construction is very much about bringing your own perspective and expertise to a team, knowing each other’s skillset and working together to achieve the overall objective. It is always a very collaborative environment, whether you are in the office, a meeting room or in the site cabin and I really enjoy bringing a positive dynamic to those spaces.

How did you get involved in construction?

Initially I wanted to be a fully qualified Architect, having completed my RIBA Part 1 BA Hons whilst working in practice.  I moved to Ireland and worked for Douglas Wallace Architects in Galway for 18 months before the economic downturn in 2008. Unfortunately, like many others, I was forced to re-evaluate and I had to diversify for a few years. After having my 2 children, I decided to re-enter the world of construction but was keen to explore the role of the ‘Main Contractor’ believing my skillset and knowledge base would align well with a role in tendering. Having spent a few years managing tenders, I have, in the last few years, also explored my role in terms of on-site projects, contracts and design coordination.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

As Bid Manager, I am responsible for the technical merit element of a tender. I am delighted when we are successful in a project, particularly ones which we have specifically targeted and worked many hours on. It is always good to feel part of the winning of a tender, knowing that we have work in the pipeline for our site teams and enabling sustainable company growth. Particular career highlights stem from opportunities I have had within my role to put my qualifications and learned skills into practice to the benefit of the team and company. This includes implementation of project tools which assist our project managers in tracking contract administration. Generally, I am delighted to be able to assist my colleagues with regards to contractual awareness and implementing change to assist in their day-to-day workload.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I do believe that women typically bring a contrasting perceptive and empathetic approach to topics, providing a balance in many situations. Working alongside my male colleagues, I can often provide an alternative perspective which is mutually beneficial.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

I have definitely seen an improvement over the years with regard to not only acceptance of women in the construction industry, but acknowledgement of the benefits women can bring to a project team.

I do believe that there is a much more neutral approach when considering the capability of personnel which does not consider the gender as an influencing factor, as it may have done in the past. Events such as ‘Women in Construction’ provides the opportunity to gather and discuss the changing landscape of women in construction.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

It is great to see women in leadership within the construction industry, acknowledging that leadership is not exclusive to the CEO’s and managing directors but also for the junior and mid-level roles where women are driving change. I love to see women working in the typically ‘male dominated roles’ such as on-site trades, project management and site management. Those women, in particular, demonstrate the confidence and drive to achieve their own personal goals and have not been deterred by previously held prejudices. Some roles will always be male dominated, purely due to the nature of the work. However, as long as women have the opportunity to explore those roles, in the same way men can, there is progress.

Short Bio

I have over 25 years’ experience across the construction, legal and property development industries.

I have worked on substantial developments and projects across Ireland and gained a wealth of experience and understanding in the delivery of complex projects. I work closely with all stakeholders from project concept to turnkey stage and provide administrative support to the pre-construction team.

How did you get involved in construction?

A new construction company opened in Kildare which was close to my home, and I applied for a position there. I started in reception, moved on to become PA to the MD and when a business development opportunity was created, I began to assist with bids and marketing. There was a great sense of camaraderie and teamwork which was essential to ensure deadlines could be met and submissions were tailored to address specific project needs whilst ensuring all bids were competitive, compliant, and aligned with the company’s strategic objectives. Attention to detail, ability to work under pressure and a keen sense of humour is essential!

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Working as part of a team to successfully deliver projects to our clients over the years and to see these clients coming back again and again based on the working relationships, we have built makes me proud.

Short Bio

I am a Bid Writing Specialist with Clancy Construction, where I contribute to a wide range of projects, ensuring our tender proposals meet the highest standards of quality. With over nine years of experience in the construction industry, I have had the privilege of working on many exciting projects and have collaborated with different teams across all disciplines. The construction industry has evolved significantly in recent years, and I am proud to be part of the growing presence of women in the field. While challenges still exist, it is inspiring to see the positive impact women are making within the industry.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I enjoy most about working in construction is the team aspect. There is a strong sense of everyone working together towards a common goal, with each person playing an important role in the success of the project. It is very rewarding to see how each person’s contribution builds towards the completion of a project. In addition, no two days are the same, there is always something new to learn.

How did you get involved in construction?

My late father, Jerry Hedderman, was a Mechanical Consultant Engineer and founded his own Mechanical & Electrical Consultancy firm, HOH Partnership in 2001, having started his career in 1978. Prior to this he worked for several design consultancy firms in both senior and management level roles in Ireland, England, and the United Sates. My father’s interest and dedication to design and construction heavily influenced my decision to join the world of construction. While I did not inherit my father’s engineering abilities, I do share the same interest and dedication to the construction industry as he did.

I gained valuable experience in the construction industry from a young age, spending my summers and midterm breaks working in my father’s office. During this time, I took on a range of responsibilities, including office and project administrative tasks, as well as secretarial and accounts duties, which allowed me to develop a strong foundation in the field.

As a writer in my personal life, I found that I could combine my creative writing skills with my passion for the construction industry, leading me to pursue a career in bid writing for construction projects. Prior to joining the Clancy team, I worked for my father’s company, the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA), a Civil & Structural Engineering firm, and a Building Contracting firm.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One moment I felt especially proud of was when I implemented an extensive Bid Library for the Estimating Team at Clancy. This has streamlined our day-to-day tasks, enabling us to work more efficiently by having essential information and templates readily accessible. It has also improved the consistency and quality of our submissions, ensuring our documents are well-organised and professionally presented. Knowing that my contribution has made such a difference to the team’s productivity and the overall bidding process has been incredibly rewarding.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women often excel in roles requiring high attention to detail, whether in planning, quality control, or safety management. Their attention to detail and precision ensures that construction projects are completed to the highest standards, minimising risks and errors. In addition, women in leadership positions in the construction industry often serve as mentors and role models to other women in the industry. Their support helps nurture talent, encourages diversity, and strengthens the workforce.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

In recent years, many men and women in the industry have highlighted the low number of women in construction and the need for more women to join the industry. This has encouraged both working women and female students to join the construction industry.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I have noticed an increase in the number of women working in the construction industry, not only in accounts and administrative roles but, more importantly, on the technical side of the industry. More and more women are becoming qualified Architects, Engineers, Quantity Surveyors, Project Managers, Health and Safety Officers, Planners, and site operatives.

What excites me most about the future of construction is how women are reshaping the construction industry by bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Their contributions are creating a more inclusive, dynamic, and forward-thinking environment within the construction industry.

Nomination of Kiera Healy

Short Bio

Primary responsibilities include:

• Support tender documentation preparation through production of Suitability Assessment Questionnaires and qualitative documentation (works proposals)
• Conducting regular internal HSQE audits
• Checker and verifier of document IMS management systems

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

Whilst I cannot answer for Kiera, I can only give my opinion.

Having done things correct and in order, ready for anyone in the company to utilise the forms or reports she has completed. It can be 100% trusted that these forms, from pre concrete inspection, pour check sheets, to tool box talks forms, are in order.

One of the traits that motivates Kiera, I would say, is her pride in her work. She gives a ‘polished’ modern look to outdated forms and documents, continually refreshes procedures in order that new and existing employees can consult if needed.

Not that she expects any praises for her improvements to the overall good of the company, including the changes she will make on the new website that will be updated June-July 2025. The value added in collaboration with Director, Dan Murphy, is another motivating factor.

The people she has known from 2012 have come and gone, a standing stone/pillar to all that know her. Her reputation is of a good, right, personal responsibility, as well as always thinking of the McGinty & O’ Shea procedures and protocols.

The flexibility of working from home and time given for family is a plus that was not a part of the love of construction, but knowing now that she is so appreciative of that flexibility while still doing a job that she loves and people can count on.

How did you get involved in construction?

Prior to joining McGinty & O’Shea Ltd Office in 2012, Kiera was previously an Administrator/Accounts Clerk for Welding Inspection Services Ltd.

The principals of the role applied to the same in construction, so she fitted in with the system. There were new engineering words to be learned, and learn the new lingo, but that did not prevent Kiera from doing her job very well.

There was support for her and the reasons she has stayed was the friendships, good working relationships and taking pride that her ‘polished’ documents are the front of every McGinty & O’Shea Ltd documentation. Top management, middle management to ground workers appreciate her help and always prompt with the added measure of being accurate.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Whilst Kiera understands that technology has advanced and rapidly, she is aware to bring the staff up with the times we are in now. She undertook training in an excel advanced course and Word, to learn what all the new icons mean and when best to use. Whilst others stay clear of this ‘heavy’ load, she sees the bigger picture and overall good it will do. She understands people do not want to move yet with the times, but is well able for the challenges. One needs a central role that sees from an overall point of view of the systems so it can be communicated to others that need for information.
What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

• Strength to take the ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ answers.
• To take constructive criticism well.
• Listen to the experience of others.
• Sharpness on checking data whether information/site requirements or payment certs.
• Being helpful
• Efficient
• Being ready to take good days and bad days from the crews.
• Sharing some laughs along the way.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

That of course women can do construction jobs in any role.

I am looking forward to the next person that I see in new roles and that they will love and grow with the company, or enjoy the best of the engineering field – that’s exciting too.

Short Bio

Dympna has been with Designer Group for 7 years and holds the role of Head of Contracts Compliance and Company Secretary for the Group. She leads the contract vetting process at bid and contract award stage, the negotiation of contracts upstream and downstream across the business and provides contractual and commercial advice and support to our project and head office teams. As Group Company Secretary, Dympna also oversees corporate governance and compliance matters for senior management and the Board.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

Construction is a fast-paced, ever evolving industry, where there is always something new to learn. The people in the industry are a fantastic mix of disciplines and personalities, all combining to deliver essential and prestigious infrastructure projects for clients across various sectors. No two days are the same and the industry offers people various career progression options including skills that are transferrable globally.

How did you get involved in construction?

Upon completing my undergraduate degree, I accidentally fell into construction by working as site administrator and document controller on the St Vincent’s University Hospital project, where I fell in love with the industry and the many characters I met on site. My next job with the Construction Industry Federation supported me returning to college where I completed a Diploma in Construction Management in Bolton Street. I learned my trade with contracts while being the Executive for the mechanical and electrical sector within the CIF, and polished it off by completing the Post Grad construction law qualification in TCD.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

The nature of my role means I am regularly involved in complex contract negotiations and it gives me a great sense of pride when we reach conclusion on significant contracts, as a team effort across Estimation, Operations, Engineering, and Commercial. I love what I do and I genuinely get a great sense of satisfaction from it, seeing the project lifecycle through from tender to contract to successful project handover.

It also makes me very proud to witness and support the development of our people, for example Quantity Surveyors in our team who started with us as trainees or graduates and are continuously progressing themselves and learning from the various levels of expertise in the wider team environment.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women tend to be more organised, diligent and empathetic, we are good multi-taskers and usually straight-talking. We will often see things differently and offer a different viewpoint or solution.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

While construction certainly lags behind other industries in terms of inclusivity and participation levels of women, it would be unfair not to recognise the strides which have been made in the last two decades. When I compare the culture and makeup of the industry from my first job on site in 2003 against the industry today, there is no doubt that positive progress has been made, albeit plenty more to do. Visibility is important to encourage younger women to consider construction as a viable career choice. Retention of women within the industry, particularly in site roles, is a huge challenge, and is an area that needs considerable focus.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

We are all unique beings, women and men naturally bring different perspectives and life experience. The best teams are those with a diverse range of knowledge, skills and styles, who complement, but also challenge, each other. In order for women to increasingly shape the industry we need to be confident in our abilities, seek out good mentors and support the progress of other women in the industry. We also need to continuously work with our male peers, industry bodies and the education sector to promote increased female involvement in the industry and drive initiatives which support this.

Biography

Clionnaidh Kelly is an experienced Bid Manager with 12 years of expertise in the municipal and industrial sectors across Ireland and the UK. Currently leading bid management activities at Coffey, Clionnaidh specialises in MEICA (Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Control, and Automation) bid management, including MEICA design and equipment selection.

With a strong academic foundation, Clionnaidh holds a BSc in Environmental Science and an MEng in Engineering Management. She is currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Construction Innovation, further enhancing her ability to drive strategic bidding processes in an evolving industry.

Her expertise lies in managing complex tenders, ensuring technical compliance, and delivering competitive bids that align with client specifications and industry standards. Clionnaidh’s comprehensive knowledge of MEICA systems, coupled with her strategic and analytical approach, enables her to deliver high-quality bid submissions that contribute to business growth and project success.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I am lucky to work as part of a strong and engaging team which makes work enjoyable. I also love the variety of working in tendering as I get to work on a wide range of multi-disciplinary projects across different industries. The exposure to market changes, new clients, suppliers, and technologies keeps my work interesting and I am constantly learning something new.

How did you get involved in construction? 

I started my career in construction through co-operative work experience during my third year at UL where I was studying Environmental Science. This experience opened the door to engineering for me, I enjoyed the practical mindset, and I knew it was something that I wanted to pursue as a career. I had no career plan, but I always gravitated to pre-contract stage work across proposals, design and estimating. This was mainly due to the varying range of projects we see, working with clients and subcontractors and getting involved in the project early allowing us to trouble-shoot solutions for the client and influence the conceptual design.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One moment that stands out is when the tendering team and I successfully secured a major framework that provided a new client and workflow for the company for 5+ years. It was lovely to see new team members come on board to deliver the works, and it is nice to have played a part in contributing to a company’s growth in that sense.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry? 

Effective communication, networking and relationship-building are core elements for a company to be successful in the demanding construction sector. I feel women’s perspective and skills in these areas not only contribute on a company level, but also provide a positive team environment to work in.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Over the past number of years there is a certain shift in the construction industry with more emphasis on diversity and inclusion, highlighting women in engineering, support through mentorship and increased visibility and representation across businesses. Many key roles across the business are led by women and I trust this trend is here to stay! Hybrid working is common throughout the industry also which allows the work-life balance showing progression.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The industry is becoming more complex and intricate with emphasis not only on how we build infrastructure but how we incorporate digitalisation, modular construction, sustainability, wellbeing, energy efficiency, carbon management etc. and this approach allows people from different backgrounds and different interests to get involved in the industry. The drivers are changing within the industry opening the door to dynamic roles and interesting innovations which is exciting.

Short Bio

My name is Tracey Cashman and I am from Cloyne in East Cork. I work in the Corporate Events/Business Development/Marketing and Estimating department and I am based in the Head Office Cork. I’ve been with Dornan since 2011. When I first started with Dornan, we were a little family and now we are like the Brady bunch. I’m always looking to grow both personally and professionally and I love that every day is different for me. Whether it’s learning something new or taking on a new challenge. My main drive at work is to do whatever I can to help my colleagues. I support a lot of projects in the group in many different ways, so it’s great to have connections with so many different people

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love the dynamic nature of the construction industry. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities, and I find immense satisfaction in seeing tangible results from our hard work. What keeps me motivated is knowing that the projects we work on have a lasting impact on communities and improve people’s lives.

How did you get involved in construction?

I came from a totally different field. I was working in the legal sector for 12 years prior to joining Dornan. In college, I completed my diploma in Legal Studies and worked within this environment for 10 years or more. I decided to change career back in 2010 and I was looking for a position that would excite me and challenge me daily, and I believe I found that in Dornan when I started back in 2011. Firstly when I joined I was working as a PA to the CEO, while also working with the Estimating team, Marketing, Business Development, Travel and Company Events. In a way I was like the Office Manager.

As Dornan expanded we got a travel department so one less job to do. In 2016, I obtained a Diploma in InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator, and in 2021 I went back and did Digital Marketing in MTU. I love working in Dornan as no day has been the same since I started back in 2011. It’s been a company that promotes that you grow and develop new skills daily and even though my title has not changed over the past 14 years, I feel each day I always go home after learning something new and achieving another task/skill. I feel I’ve been able to grow and thrive in various roles. It’s been an exciting journey, and I’ve learned so much along the way.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring a diverse perspective to the construction industry, which enhances creativity and problem-solving. Our attention to detail, strong communication skills, and ability to multitask effectively are valuable assets. Women often foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment, which leads to better outcomes for projects and teams.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

I’ve seen significant progress in the industry, becoming more inclusive and supportive of women. There are now more opportunities for women in leadership roles, and many organisations actively promote diversity and inclusion.

Mentorship programs and networking events for women in construction have also become more common, helping to build a strong support system.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction excites me because of the advancements in technology and sustainability. Women will continue to play a crucial role in driving innovation and shaping the industry’s future. By bringing unique perspectives and skills, women will help create more efficient, sustainable and inclusive construction practices.

Short Bio:

Fainche has over 10 years’ experience as a Bid Coordinator within the construction industry in both Ireland and Australia. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English and Irish and a Master’s degree in Business and Information Technology (through Irish).

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love the pace of this role, it can often be the case where we are working on several different bids at once, and it is up to you to ensure that nothing is missed or left out of the submission. You are essentially the glue to bring the bid together so you have to ensure that everything is coordinated and managed, usually liaising with multiple different departments throughout the bid.

The feeling of accomplishment and team satisfaction once a bid has been submitted is a feeling like no other, it’s great to work with dedicated and enthusiastic people, and know that you were an integral part of potentially winning your company a project or a framework.

How did you get involved in construction?

To be honest, I did not even know what a tender was when I first started in this role! I was in a temporary position in a water and wastewater company (doing data entry) and when my contract was almost finished the MD came to me and asked if I would be interested in moving into a permanent role in the Tendering/Bid Department. I jumped at the chance, and as silly as it sounds, I fell in love with the role and with the construction industry from then on. It suits my personality, as I can be quite a meticulous, organised person, so the pace and level of detail the role requires suits me.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

I tendered a $100M private hospital bid in Australia, and shortly into the tendering process, my boss at the time was unexpectedly let go. I was still relatively new to the role, and the whole responsibility for coordinating and pulling together the bid (which involved multiple external stakeholders due to the size and complexity of the project) fell entirely to me. It was extremely daunting, but the bid was submitted to a very high standard, and the company ended up winning the project. This still stands out as a triumph for me, as it helped me see that I was a valuable part of the team and had the ability to perform the role to a very high level.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I think that women bring very unique strengths to the construction industry that enhance innovation, efficiency, and workplace culture. Their strong communication skills can help to foster collaboration among teams, improving communication, problem-solving and decision-making. Women also tend to have a keen eye for detail, and as such contribute to higher-quality work, ensuring safety and compliance on every bid.

I think that women bring a fresh perspective to the planning and execution of a bid, and their approach to risk management and safety will often lead to more proactive solutions, thus reducing workplace stress and incidents.

By recognising and embracing these strengths, the construction industry can become more dynamic, productive, and innovative. Encouraging more women to join the field will not only bring balance but will also drive the industry toward a more progressive and inclusive future.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

From when I began in the construction industry over 10 years ago, I feel that it has made significant strides toward becoming more inclusive and supportive of women, and the progress is both inspiring and encouraging. In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in workplace culture, with greater recognition of the value women bring to the industry. Forward thinking companies (like Glanua!) are actively working to break down barriers by promoting diversity, offering mentorship programs, and creating more equitable career advancement opportunities for women.

One of the most impactful changes has been the increased visibility of women in leadership roles. More women are stepping into key leadership roles such as directors, project managers, engineers, and safety officers, proving that success in construction is not defined by gender but by skill, expertise, and dedication. It is imperative that young women who are unsure of what career path to explore, see women in these power roles, so that they understand that the sky really is the limit.

Additionally, I feel that the industry has made vast improvements in workplace policies, including flexible work arrangements, family-friendly benefits, and stronger measures to combat discrimination and harassment. This renewed understanding and flexibility has made the construction industry a more welcoming and supportive environment for women to thrive.

With ongoing efforts to encourage young women to pursue careers in construction through scholarships, apprenticeships, and outreach programs, the future looks even brighter. As more women join and excel in the field, they are paving the way for a new generation of talent, innovation, and leadership.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction is very exciting, driven by innovation, sustainability, and a shift toward more inclusive and diverse workforces. Advancements in technology—such as AI, automation, and sustainable building materials—are transforming the industry in a huge way, making it more efficient, environmentally friendly, and (hopefully) adaptable to global challenges.

I believe that women are playing a key role in this transformation. As leaders, engineers, project managers, and skilled tradespeople, they are bringing fresh perspectives to problem-solving, design, and project execution. A better emphasis on collaboration, attention to detail, and strong leadership skills are helping to drive innovation, improve safety standards, and create more inclusive workplaces.

As the industry evolves, women will continue to shape its future by championing sustainability, advocating for smarter work processes, and inspiring the next generation of talent. Women’s growing presence will not only diversify the industry but also strengthen it, ensuring construction remains forward-thinking, resilient, and built for the future.

Short Bio

The construction industry has played a pivotal role in shaping both my personal and professional growth, and I am proud to advocate for diversity and progress within this dynamic field.

I have always felt a connection to the industry, influenced by my family’s involvement—my father worked as a foreman for a leading main contractor and my brother is a MEP Project Lead working for another Irish main contractor on data centres in Sweden.

While pursuing my BBS Degree in Marketing from Maynooth University, I worked consistently with a leading main contractor, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in marketing, prequalification submissions, and business development. This early exposure laid a strong foundation and a clear vision for my career.

Today, as Marketing Manager at Duggan Brothers, I apply my expertise to a wide range of responsibilities, thriving on the variety and challenges of my role.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is the wide variety of tasks my role offers—every day is different. One day, I might be creating corporate brochures, redesigning the website, or planning an event; the next, I could be out on-site taking videos of a concrete pour. The diversity keeps things exciting and engaging.

Beyond the tasks, it really is the people who make the job so enjoyable. I interact daily with a variety of colleagues across different departments/areas, and we have built a great rapport. Whether it’s collaborating on events or discussing ongoing projects, there’s a sense of camaraderie that makes the workday enjoyable. We all get along well and can share a bit of lighthearted fun throughout the day, which creates a positive atmosphere.

How did you get involved in construction?

My career journey began when I asked my aunt if there were any opportunities for summer work with the main contractor she was working for at the time. She arranged for me to assist with a project in the HR Department that summer, which provided my first real insight into the construction industry.

When I started college, I continued to work part-time during the academic year and full-time every summer and break, gaining invaluable experience along the way. After graduating, I transitioned into a full-time position in the marketing department, solidifying my passion for construction and marketing.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One of my proudest moments was leading Duggan Brothers’ centennial celebration in 2023. From conceptualising the branding and crafting the messaging to managing the event organisation and ensuring seamless execution, I was involved in every aspect of this milestone year. It was both a challenging and rewarding experience, and seeing the pride it instilled in our team, stakeholders, and clients was incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that my efforts helped make this historic year so memorable stands out as a defining highlight of my career—so far!

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring a unique blend of determination, resilience, and strong leadership to the construction industry. We are often headstrong, and when we decide something needs to be done, it gets done—come hell or high water.

Whether it’s overcoming challenges, managing complex projects, or leading teams, women tackle tasks with a relentless commitment to success. This determination, paired with our ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and offer fresh perspectives, makes us invaluable assets in the construction industry.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction is exciting, particularly with advancements in digital technologies, sustainability, and innovation. Women have an essential role in driving these changes. By stepping into leadership positions and mentoring the next generation, women can help shape a more inclusive, dynamic, and forward-thinking industry. I am excited to continue contributing to this transformation through my role in marketing.

Short Bio

I have been working with Duggan Brothers for 27 years, growing and evolving alongside the company. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to engage in every aspect of the business, continuously learning and developing within my role. It has been a privilege to contribute to high-profile contracts and witness the company thrive.

In 2023, Duggan Brothers celebrated its 100th anniversary. It was an incredible experience to be part of such a momentous milestone and reflect on how far the company has come. Watching Duggan Brothers grow into one of the leading building contractors in the industry has been both rewarding and inspiring. Over the years, I have forged lasting friendships with colleagues and industry partners, while adapting to significant changes, particularly the advancements in technology, which have been instrumental in improving efficiency and quality.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I am passionate about my job and love the variety it brings each day. Construction is a fast-paced, dynamic environment where no two days are the same. I enjoy collaborating closely with management, site teams, and other departments to ensure projects stay on target. Seeing a project come together and knowing I was part of the team that brought it to life, delivering high-quality results keeps me motivated and proud.

How did you get involved in construction?

I began my career in an administrative role and gradually took on tasks across different departments. At that time, processes were more manual, and additional support was often needed. I found purchasing particularly interesting and was fortunate to receive opportunities to study and work alongside experienced personnel to develop the necessary skills for my role.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One of my proudest moments was celebrating the company’s 100th anniversary. Reflecting on our journey and the dedication of our team to consistently deliver projects with excellence was remarkable. I have been involved in numerous projects where we not only met but exceeded expectations, completing contracts ahead of schedule and within budget. Being part of such achievements makes me proud to be a member of this team.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring exceptional organisational skills, multitasking abilities, and strong communication, which are invaluable in construction. We excel in fostering collaboration and empowering others, often blending strength with kindness and attention to detail. Women are resourceful, take initiative, and bring a fresh perspective to the industry.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

It’s inspiring to see more women stepping into diverse roles in construction—beyond administration—such as architecture, engineering, and skilled trades. A more diverse workforce has led to increased creativity and innovation. As a parent of teenagers who are constantly in and out the front door with their friends, I take every opportunity to advocate for careers in construction, encouraging them to explore the diverse and rewarding prospects the industry has to offer.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The construction industry is addressing a significant skills shortage, and the growing inclusion of women is a key factor in bridging this gap. By taking on prominent roles, women are contributing to workforce growth, diversification, and economic output. Women’s increasing presence is shaping industry into a more inclusive and welcoming space for everyone, paving the way for a bright and innovative future.

Short Bio

I have been with Clancy Construction for over 16 years now. I started as a Receptionist and Administrator. I currently have a dual role with Clancy as both the Board PA and their Events Manager.

In addition to my core responsibilities, I am actively involved in various initiatives within the company, including their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, reflecting my commitment to making a positive impact in both my workplace and community.

Outside of work, I am an avid traveller with a passion for crafts, reading and walking. As a seasoned adventurer, I have walked multiple routes of the iconic Camino de Santiago embracing the challenges and rewards of the journey.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is the variety of work it offers. While there is a comforting routine to parts of my role, there is also plenty of variety, ensuring that no two days are ever the same. It keeps me engaged and continually learning, which is something I truly value.

I am fortunate to work with a company like Clancy, which is incredibly progressive and innovative. The emphasis on learning and staying ahead of the curve is inspiring, and it is a privilege to be part of a team that embraces new ideas and methods.

At Clancy, we are now in our third generation of family ownership, having started in 1947. Throughout the 78 years of growth and change, we have consistently preserved a family-oriented atmosphere, which, based on feedback from staff, suppliers, clients, and others, is something truly special.

The support from the Directors is another aspect I deeply appreciate. They encourage me to perform to the best of my ability, take on board my suggestions, and back me in implementing them. That level of trust and collaboration is incredibly motivating.

One of my favourite parts of the job is being involved in the initial stages of a project, such as plotting and printing site drawings. Seeing those plans come to life whether it is a restoration, conservation project, or a new build from scratch is profoundly rewarding. Watching the transformation from inception to completion fills me with immense pride.

Lastly, the team I work with plays a huge role in keeping me motivated. Being surrounded by skilled, enthusiastic, and supportive colleagues makes even the busiest of days enjoyable and reminds me why I love what I do.

How did you get involved in construction?

My journey into the construction industry was quite accidental, yet when I reflect on it, it feels as though a thread of happy coincidences guided me here.

It all began when I was about six years old. I was on an outing with my uncle, who took me into a toy shop and told me I could pick any toy I wanted. For reasons I did not understand at the time, I chose the board game Monopoly, a game centred around buying and selling property.

Fast forward to leaving school, I found myself working for a solicitor, where I spent almost 20 years. Eventually, I took sole responsibility for the Conveyancing Department, diving deep into the world of property transactions. My path then took me to County Tipperary, where my first job was in auctioneering. This role expanded my knowledge of property from a different angle.

Finally, I joined Clancy, where I have had the privilege of working in the actual building, restoration, and renovation of properties. I am particularly interested in the restoration and renovation aspect, which brings history and modernity together in a tangible way.

I still have a few years left in my career, and when the time for retirement comes, I will have the chance to revisit Monopoly bringing my journey full circle from that toy shop to a lifetime immersed in the world of property and construction.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One recurring moment that stands out as a source of pride for me is not tied to a building project but rather to my role as an Events Manager. Every November, I have the privilege of organising our Company Management Gathering. This event brings together the majority of our staff for a full day of meetings and team-building activities in a beautiful hotel setting.

In the evening, we are joined by our partners for a gala dinner, entertainment, and an overnight stay, creating a truly special occasion. I love how this event allows us all to connect in a relaxed, social environment, fostering collaboration, camaraderie, and a strong sense of belonging. It strengthens the bonds within our company and reminds everyone why Clancy is such a fantastic place to work.

One of my favourite moments during this event is simply reading the room and seeing everyone genuinely happy, laughing, and enjoying themselves. Watching people connect, share stories, and celebrate their achievements fills me with immense pride. It is a joy to know that I have contributed to creating a space where people feel valued and appreciated, and that sense of positivity is something that resonates far beyond the event itself.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring a variety of unique strengths to the construction industry, many of which complement the skills of their male counterparts, creating more dynamic and effective teams.

One key strength is our different way of thinking. Women often approach challenges with a broader perspective, considering not only immediate outcomes but also long-term impacts. This can lead to creative problem-solving and innovative ideas that might not emerge otherwise. While men often bring direct and focused approaches, the combination of both ways of thinking enhances decision-making and project outcomes.

Organisational skills are another area where women excel. The ability to juggle multiple responsibilities in both personal and professional spheres translates into strong time management and prioritisation skills at work. In construction, where there are countless moving parts, these skills are invaluable for ensuring projects run smoothly and efficiently.

Women also tend to have exceptional attention to detail, a trait that is crucial in the construction industry, where precision and accuracy are key to successful project completion. This ability helps catch potential issues early and ensures high-quality outcomes.

Another strength lies in women’s natural communication and empathy skills. In my experience, women are often great at fostering a welcoming and supportive environment. They excel in helping new team members, both male and female, settle into their roles by offering guidance, answering questions, and building connections. This helps create stronger, more cohesive teams and promotes a culture where everyone feels valued.

Overall, women bring skills and perspectives that enhance collaboration, innovation, and workplace culture. These qualities, combined with the strengths of their male colleagues, create a balanced and inclusive environment that drives the construction industry forward.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Having started my career 40 years ago as a Legal Assistant in Conveyancing, I have witnessed immense changes in the industry over the years. The past 20 years, in particular, have been transformative, especially in my role at Clancy, where the pace of change has been nothing short of remarkable. When I first joined, we had only three women, in stereotypical office roles. However, over the years, we’ve truly blossomed, with women now filling a diverse range of roles across the company. From project management to engineering and even on-site positions, women are now represented in every aspect of the construction industry. This shift is incredibly exciting and inspiring, and it is a testament to how far the industry has come in fostering inclusivity and support for women.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I can confidently say that my lifelong connection to property whether in construction, conveyancing, or other aspects—has kept me passionate about the industry. Even as I approach the autumn of my career my interest will always remain strong. I believe it is important to encourage young women, particularly female family members and friends’ daughters to explore construction as a lifelong career. There are so many different avenues to diversify into, and it is an exciting, fulfilling field that has been incredibly good to me.

Looking ahead, I am genuinely excited for what the future holds. We have already seen tremendous changes and innovations, and we are only on the cusp of even greater things. With more women involved, especially in leadership roles with the potential for further growth we are just laying the foundation for even greater things. The structure of the future is ours to build.

Short Bio

I joined Clancy Construction in April 2023 as a Prequalification Administrator in the Estimating Department. Since starting, I’ve also become a member of the safety team, the coordinator for our AI program, and I sit on the subcommittee for our Social and Management Events.

Outside of work, I love spending time with family and friends. I’m passionate about horse riding and adore my horse, Mooch. I’m also into all things girly—makeup, fashion, interiors—and I’m a big fan of reality TV!

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is seeing projects transform from ‘pre construction ideas’ into meaningful structures that benefit communities. The variety, challenges, and opportunities to learn and problem-solve keep me motivated every day. Being part of a collaborative team and knowing my efforts contribute to something impactful is incredibly rewarding.

How did you get involved in construction?

If I’m being totally honest, I got into construction by accident! After completing a general business degree at Waterford Institute of Technology, I worked in property management—sales and lettings—for four years. I initially applied for a role in our sister company, Clancy Homes, but that position had already been filled. However, HR thought I’d be a great fit for the Prequalification Administrator role at Clancy Construction, and as they say, the rest is history!

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One of my proudest moments was being nominated for Employee of the Month in March 2024. It was an incredible honour, especially as I work alongside such talented and intelligent colleagues who have taught me so much. Overall, our team works exceptionally well together—we’re all passionate about what we do, and that’s reflected in our impressive 93% pass rate!

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring unique strengths to the construction industry, including strong collaboration skills, attention to detail, and a fresh perspective on problem-solving. Their ability to communicate effectively and foster teamwork enhances project coordination and ensures diverse viewpoints are considered. Women often excel in organization and multitasking, which are invaluable in managing complex projects. By breaking traditional barriers, they inspire innovation, inclusivity, and a more balanced workplace culture, ultimately driving the industry forward.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

In the short time I’ve been in the construction industry, I’ve noticed a significant increase in the number of women involved, which is incredibly encouraging. Credit is also due to our male colleagues, many of whom openly recognize the value women bring to projects, particularly in terms of being detail-oriented and fostering collaboration. There’s been a clear shift toward greater gender balance, with less focus on differentiation and more emphasis on creating an even playing field where everyone is respected and valued for their contributions. It’s inspiring to see the industry evolving in such a positive and inclusive direction.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction is incredibly exciting, especially as the industry continues to evolve and become more inclusive. As I’ve often said to colleagues, construction is a great place for women. While it has historically been male-dominated, that’s changing, with women and men alike being encouraged to upskill and pursue leadership roles. It’s inspiring to see more women stepping into senior management and director positions, breaking barriers, and driving innovation. Women bring fresh perspectives and unique strengths to the table, and their growing presence is shaping a more diverse, dynamic, and forward-thinking industry.

Short Bio

I began my career in procurement within the retail sector before transitioning to the construction industry in 2017. Since 2022, I have been working as a Senior Buyer at Designer Group, gaining experience across a diverse range of projects, each with its own unique challenges. Notably, I have worked on Diageo sites in Ireland, Mexico, and East Africa. These international projects have significantly broadened my understanding of the complexities and challenges within procurement.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day? 

What I love most about working in construction is the variety of tasks. No two days or projects are the same. It is an extremely demanding and challenging industry but also highly rewarding when the project has been completed.

What keeps me motivated every day is the sense of accomplishment at the end of each project, knowing that our work has contributed to creating something that will be used and appreciated for years to come. I also find inspiration in the collaborative environment, building relationships with site teams, suppliers and clients.

How did you get involved in construction? 

After 17 years in retail, I felt I needed a change in my career. During this period, the construction industry in Ireland was experiencing significant growth. I was contacted by a recruiter regarding a position within this sector, applied for the role, and was successfully hired, marking the beginning of my career in the construction industry.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

In my previous role, I was responsible for highlighting the importance of Goods Receipt Noting (GRN) at the site level. To streamline this process, I assisted in the implementation of an app that enabled site staff to efficiently complete GRNs at the point of entry. I also conducted on-site training sessions, which not only facilitated the adoption of the new system but also strengthened relationships between the office and site teams. This initiative significantly reduced administrative workload for the accounts department, particularly in terms of invoice processing.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I feel women bring many unique strengths to the construction industry. Some of these strengths include: good attention to detail, efficiency, empathy, teamwork, multitasking and good communication skills.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Over the past seven years in the industry, I have observed considerable progress, particularly in the growing inclusivity of women within the construction sector. An obvious change for me would be the option of female PPE and workwear which make the females more comfortable in their work clothing. Another change would be the increased availability of female only toilets on sites.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The rapidly evolving sectors entering the construction world excite me. I enjoy learning new skills and adapting to the diverse procurement functions within these sectors. Over the past two decades, the percentage of women in construction has more than doubled, and this growth is continuously growing. I see women increasingly making their mark in the industry, bringing their unique strengths and perspectives to the forefront.

Short Bio

I have a degree in Marketing, followed by a number of years in marketing (banks and hotel marketing primarily). In my mid-20’s I set up my own construction company “Roshca Developments”. I did some planning work but primarily bought sites with planning. I had full control over house design, sales, marketing, pricing, interiors so I got a feel for every part of construction. I worked more with the family business before moving full time to Carroll Estates 7 years ago. I have been head of HR, Marketing, Sales, Customer Relations and others before concentrating now primarily on Sales.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

Unlike many other businesses these days, with construction you get to see the result of all the hard work for years to come. It gives such joy to pass a development you helped create, years after the last house has sold – see the design standing the test of time and the way residents have made it their home.

How did you get involved in construction?

I can’t remember a time construction wasn’t part of my life. Being a family business that recently celebrated 50 years, I grew up with my dad discussing the latest events from sites at the dinner table. Although I can’t say it was my intention to follow in his footsteps, somehow here I am! A decision I might not quite remember making, but one I have never regretted.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

When I went to the launch of my first development with Roshca Developments. I still remember driving down on the Sunday (we launched on a Saturday) and the auctioneer ringing me to say don’t bother coming, we were sold out! These were 6 big, detached properties in Bettystown that I helped design, built with my own construction team, marketed (including doing all the interior design myself) and put together the sales strategy… every decision mine. And we sold out in 24 hours. I think I was 26 or 27 years of age. Yes, I can say I felt very proud.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Empathy – I think we naturally think about how actions affect others. And planning ahead – women can think of all the obvious factors, but also those that may not be so obvious. We also would be good multi-taskers.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

Although I am not involved directly onsite, it is very exciting having some hand on all the live projects providing company vehicles and support to the drivers of the vehicles.

How did you get involved in construction?

My degree is in Interior and Furniture Design, so I have an innate interest in construction and how things work, are made, function and come together. I also love seeing a project coming together before your eyes.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

I feel very proud on an ongoing basis just seeing and hearing of the progress of all the different projects onsite. I especially love and get great satisfaction from helping my colleagues within my role of managing the fleet of vehicles.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I feel women naturally have a different and unique approach and perspective which can only round off and compliment the male approach and perspective.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Yes, in the 10 years of my construction experience I feel women are much more valued and appreciated within the industry. I went from being the ‘girl’ in the office who was inconveniencing site in doing my job to now feeling like a valued member of the team whose work and efforts are greatly appreciated.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The possibilities are endless, I feel there is no corner of ‘site’ where a female representative cannot be found from admin roles, safety, engineers, machines operatives and site workers which is very inspiring to the next generation coming up the ranks, as I would have been encouraged to not move into a male dominated industry by many men over the years and it’s great to see and feel the change.

Short Bio

In addition to managing the digital systems for the company, I am also the EDI lead for Jons. I began my career at Jons as a Graduate Civil Engineer before moving into the Quality Team and eventually my current role. I hold a Degree in Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering from Trinity College Dublin.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love seeing things get built and knowing that I had a part in that, watching a project progress from start to end can be very rewarding. What keeps me motivated is the problem-solving aspect of construction, there is always something new to focus on, to figure out, a puzzle to solve and I love that about my job.

How did you get involved in construction?

Working in construction specifically was never something I was aiming for; I went down the engineering route and the opportunity to work in construction came up as I was looking for jobs. I thought I would try it out, thinking if I didn’t like it in 6 months I would move on. Almost 8 years later and I can’t imagine working in another industry.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

I am extremely proud of my impact in moving the company towards more digital platforms through the implementation of both Procore for project management and our new financial software.

Also, as EDI lead, I have had great opportunities to put the spotlight on some key focus areas such as neurodiversity and disabilities which are having a direct impact on the people I work with.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I am a strong believer that a more diverse workforce in whatever form that takes brings major benefits to any industry such as increased innovation, creativity and productivity, through the broad range of skills, experiences and perspectives that those people bring.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I am excited about the ever increasing role that technology will have to play in construction and how will that open the door for more people into the industry. I am also excited just to see more women in construction and all the benefits that is sure to bring.

What do you love most about working in your industry and what keeps you motivated every day?

As a department, MarComms is one that spans each of our business divisions and group companies.

You rarely get a second chance to make a first impression, so each and every day, our focus is firmly on communicating with our internal and external audiences and shaping how our product partners and our supply chain perceive the company and our activities.

We are fortunate to be part of a growing group and with our continued expansion in recent years, we are becoming experts at onboarding new companies, which means I frequently get to interact with new teams across Ireland and the UK.

How did you get involved in the industry?

It was a bit of a career pivot, as my background is in broadcasting and PR, but I reached a point where I wanted to be able to completely focus my attention on delivering results for one company or organisation, to immerse myself fully in understanding their message and play a part in shaping how that is then communicated to internal and external audiences.

In 2017, I took a relatively calculated risk by applying for the Marketing Manager’s position while she was on maternity leave. My current role as Communications Manager was then created specifically for me when the Marketing Manager returned. It’s been without a doubt the best thing I’ve ever done professionally. I believe that when you enjoy what you do, you don’t work a day in your life and I’m very fortunate that that is the case for me.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

I have a great deal of autonomy within my role and one of the most impactful initiatives I spearheaded and was encouraged to implement was the introduction of a new internal communications platform.

From issuing simple emails to our team members via Outlook, the efficacy or impact of which we couldn’t track or measure, we now regularly issue personalised, branded, engaging communications with embedded videos, documents or presentations, which also provide us with engagement metrics such as the number of campaigns, the number of recipients and the open rate.

As the group continues to grow, communication has taken on a greater importance and plays a huge part in connecting our 760 colleagues across Ireland and the UK, uniting them and reminding them that we are all part of a wider team and a bigger picture as we contribute towards achieving the company’s strategic aims, so to be able to do so at the click of a button is fantastic.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the industry?

I think women are natural collaborators, networkers, multitaskers and problem solvers and these soft, yet innate skills can be seen most effectively in the workplace.

Our industry is quite male dominated and those we engage with can be quite technically minded, so I think – no matter which area we are working in – we bring a different perspective or approaches to conversations or projects and ultimately, this can provide a more rounded view.

How have you seen the industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

It was a culture shock working within a predominantly male environment when I joined the company 8 years ago, and whether it’s reflected within the industry at large or not, certainly over those years, I have seen women promoted to and occupying more visible roles, such as leading our HSQE department, joining Engineering, Operations, HR, Service and Repair and within my own department also.

Seeing young female engineers joining the ranks is particularly encouraging, as it would seem to validate and reinforce the efforts poured into promoting STEM subjects at primary and secondary level. It’s also great to hear that they consider our industry a welcoming one in which to begin their career path.

What excites you about the future of our industry and how do you see women shaping it?

Advancements in technology have already begun to reshape our industry and they will continue to drive transformation in how we design, build, and deliver infrastructure. The increasing adoption of off-site construction, Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA), and other modern methods of construction is changing the landscape, creating opportunities for greater efficiency, sustainability and collaboration.

Women have a crucial role to play in this evolution. As our Design and Engineering teams embrace new technologies and approaches, diversity of thought and leadership will be key to driving innovation. Women bring fresh perspectives, problem-solving skills, and a strong focus on collaboration – qualities that are essential in an industry moving toward digitalisation, automation and sustainability. By actively participating in these advancements, mentoring the next generation and advocating for inclusive workplaces, women will continue to shape the future of construction and infrastructure in Ireland.

Short Bio

I am 26 years old and a recent MSc Management & Marketing graduate from UCC. I have been working with EPS for the past three years.

What do you love most about working in your industry, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love about working in this industry is the constant variety, no two days are the same. My role is very diverse, as we provide marketing support to seven companies within the EPS Group, which means there’s always something new and exciting to work on. I love creating graphics as it allows me to express my creativity and enhance my design skills. I find working on sponsorships and donations especially rewarding, as it’s fulfilling to see the company give back to various charities and organisations.

How did you get involved in the industry?

After spending four years in college earning a business degree, I decided it was time to land my first proper “big girl” job. Like any 22-year-old fresh out of college, I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do next. When I came across a job opening in the operations department, I decided to apply. That’s when my journey with EPS began and I started on a six-month maternity leave contract in Operations. Once I had my foot in the door, I took the opportunity to express my interest in marketing. That led me to a role as a Marketing Assistant. After a year and a half, I decided to further my education and pursue an MSc in Management and Marketing. I completed my master’s degree, and upon graduation, I was promoted to Marketing Specialist.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One moment where I felt extremely proud to be a part of the marketing team was during the 5 Peaks Challenge in 2023. We promoted and provided marketing support to raise funds for three amazing charities including Pieta House, Action Cancer and Water Aid. The aim of the challenge was to complete 5 mountain peaks including Carrauntoohill, Slieve Donard, Snowden, Scafell Pike and finishing on Ben Nevis all within 48 hours. As a team we successfully raised over €50,000. As a personal achievement, I was one of the few women to complete 2 out of 5 peaks.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the industry?

In my role within the marketing department, I’ve noticed that women bring a strong sense of collaboration and positive energy, especially when brainstorming and developing new marketing campaigns. Women tend to have a keen eye for design and detail which enhances marketing materials, and our natural flair for event planning and organisation makes a significant impact. This is especially evident when creating graphics, brochures, documents and organising employee events.

How have you seen the industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Since joining the company, I’ve been inspired by women who started in administrative roles and have advanced into managerial positions, consistently paving the way for others in the construction and infrastructure industry especially in a male dominated sector. It’s truly encouraging to see more women taking on leadership roles within the company.

What excites you about the future of our industry, and how do you see women shaping it?

Women are already crucial in shaping the future by contributing diverse perspectives, fresh thinking, and strong leadership. As more women step into key leadership, project management, and technical roles, they will continue to drive progress and innovation. Their innovative ideas, collaborative spirit, and commitment to inclusivity will be instrumental in reshaping industry standards, leading to a more diverse and dynamic future.

Short Bio

I previously worked in the Oil & Gas industry for 11 years in various head office roles including PA to the directors and the communications department. That’s where I got my first taste of a high-intensity environment, and it shaped me as a person. I moved to Dublin seven years ago to be a Site Administrator on high density inner-city residential projects with a smaller construction company and stayed with them for 5.5 years. 18 months ago, I joined John Paul Construction as the Site Administration Team Leader.

In this role, I am currently leading a team of 20 site administrators and document controllers. They are working on residential, pharma, tech, life sciences, data centres and civil projects across Ireland, the UK and Germany. It’s a big team and it has its challenges as I can’t be in more than one place at a time but I am really enjoying it and I’m looking forward to seeing where the road takes me.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I am the type of person that has to be busy. I can’t sit still so I love how fast the pace is and how quickly things can change; no two days are the same. Monotony breeds boredom, as they say. I really enjoy being challenged and thrive in a high stress environment where there are lots of things being thrown at you from different directions on a daily basis. Luckily, I’m good at multi-tasking or I would have more grey hairs! Travelling has always been a big passion of mine and I’m now getting to spread my wings a little bit as we move more into the UK and mainland Europe.

How did you get involved in construction?

I was very happy in the Oil & Gas industry. Unfortunately for me the company I was working for was bought out and I ended up in a position that I really didn’t like. I was ready for a change both professionally and personally, so I applied for different admin roles in Dublin. Simply put, the best offer I got was in construction and the rest is history. I’m not sure if it was fate or pure luck but I’m delighted that’s how things turned out. I have not only learned a lot about the industry, I have made some really good friends along the way.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Seeing the finished product gives me a great sense of achievement. I worked on a site from the initial demolition works and then I handed the keys over to the owners. To see families building new lives and children happily playing in the new playgrounds was very satisfying. I often drive past the project with a smile on my face thinking, “I helped create that”. I may not have had tools in my hand, but without my contribution the handover would not have happened. That’s why there is a role for everyone in construction but if there is a cog in the chain, the whole operation fails.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I think women tend to take a step back and look at the bigger picture rather than rushing into making decisions. That kind of analytical thinking is required in construction as one little mistake could cost a lot of money, whether it be from an architect, an engineer, project manager, site manager, design manager or a consultant. I also think women are better communicators so there’s less room for ambiguity or the need for timewasting with having to repeat instructions and training.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Absolutely! A mere six years ago when I started in the industry I experienced all the negative aspects one might expect and more.

Thankfully, in John Paul Construction, we have state-of-the-art site facilities that cater for both men and women. We have introduced free sanitary products for all the women in our offices and on sites. We also have a lot of people WFH or hybrid working. It’s no longer a one size fits all industry where you work from 7am-6pm on site, and companies need to move with the times.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I can’t wait to see the impact technology has on the industry. Whether it’s AI or smarter building design, I think there’s so much that can be done and I think women have a very important role to play in this.

Short Bio

With 30 years in the construction industry, I currently serve as Recruitment Manager at John Paul Construction. My expertise lies in recruitment and talent management.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love the dynamic nature of construction—every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn. When travelling the country, I love to see the results of our work, from seeing a project take shape to its completion. I get great fulfilment knowing that I have recruited staff for our projects and the sense of accomplishment that comes from working collaboratively with our teams.

How did you get involved in construction?

I started my career in 1994 with Ascon in Kill. I worked in the payroll and personnel department as it was known then.

I had great mentors in this role, and there were great characters involved in the projects at the time. 

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Every day, I take great pride in the work we do. It’s especially rewarding when we help Irish professionals return home with their families to build their construction careers in Ireland after working abroad in places like Canada, Australia, and the UK.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I believe women bring a strong collaborative approach, along with excellent communication skills and attention to detail.

I am very fortunate to have a great network of female peers within the industry who support each other in our roles.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

The construction industry has made huge strides in promoting diversity through various programs, and initiatives that highlight their achievements.

At John Paul, our ambition is to ensure that talented female candidates enter our industry. In my role as Recruitment Manager, I am committed to our target of increasing the number of females year on year.

As a means to spotlighting the potential of a career within the industry, we will actively promote and showcase female success and experience within our organisation.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction in Ireland is exciting with some great projects in the pipeline. John Paul will continue to participate in ‘Women in Construction’ and ‘Business in the Community’ to further our objectives in the area of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. In 2025 we will be partnering with the All Ireland Passport for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) programme.

I personally am committed to encouraging more women to pursue careers in the construction industry, promoting diversity and inclusion in every hiring decision.

Short Bio

I’m a Graphic Designer with over 15 years of experience. I have a degree in Advertising and a Master’s in Marketing. I’ve worked with many well-known brands in digital media and the print business. Since July 2024, I’ve been working at John Paul Construction, taking on my first role within a marketing department for an organisation.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I like most about working in construction is seeing a project go from a plan on paper to a real, tangible structure and being part of the whole process. Site visits and witnessing the actual work are incredibly rewarding. Also, working with a great team and learning new things every day keeps me excited and motivated.

How did you get involved in construction?

I got involved in construction when a friend of mine, who worked at John Paul Construction, went on maternity leave. She gave me a referral for her role, and that’s how I landed my first job in construction. It turned out to be a great fit for me.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One moment that stands out is when I participated in a client video showing the quick progress of a building site. It highlighted how John Paul Construction and all the innovative techniques helped deliver the project ahead of a tight deadline.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I think women bring unique strengths to construction, like diverse points of view, excellent communication skills, and attention to detail. These qualities enhance creativity, collaboration, and efficiency on projects.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

In my opinion, the construction industry is getting more inclusive, with initiatives to support women and a culture that values diverse perspectives. It’s great to see more women on building sites.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

What excites me about the future of construction is the potential for innovation and growth. While there’s still a lot to improve, it’s great to see a bit more diversity. Women are bringing new opinions, great solutions, and attention to detail.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love the dynamic environment and the tangible impact of our work—seeing projects come to life is rewarding. What keeps me motivated is the opportunity to support and develop our team, ensuring an inclusive, and productive workplace.

How did you get involved in construction?

I have been working in the construction industry for years, my first permanent fulltime role was with a Lift Engineering Company.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One of my proudest moments was recruiting our first ever female apprentices. This has led to an increased number of female apprentices within CJK. I’m very proud of them all, especially choosing a career in such a male dominated industry and absolutely smashing it.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring valuable strengths to the construction industry, excelling in detail-oriented work essential for project management, safety inspections, and quality control. Their clear communication enhances teamwork, while their fresh perspectives drive innovation in construction planning and problem-solving. Working in a field mostly led by men helps women become strong and flexible, making them great leaders and project managers. They are also playing a big role in eco-friendly building, green construction, and new design ideas that save energy and protect the environment. By bringing these strengths to the industry, women are not only excelling in various roles but also driving positive change and progress within construction.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

The construction industry has changed a lot to include and support women better. More companies now hire women for different jobs, not just office work but also hands-on building and leadership roles. Apprenticeships and graduate programmes are geared to help women learn new skills and grow in their careers. Many worksites now have better safety rules, proper facilities, and stronger policies against discrimination. There are also support groups and mentorship programs where women can connect and help each other succeed. These changes make it easier for women to join, stay, and grow in the construction industry.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction is exciting because of new technologies that can make building faster and safer. We are also seeing more sustainable materials and methods that help protect the environment. Women are shaping the industry and methods that help protect the environment. Women are shaping the industry by bringing fresh ideas, strong leadership, and helping create more inclusive work environments. As more women join the field, they will continue to break down barriers, take on leadership roles, and inspire the next generation.

Short Bio

I started with Bennet Construction 11 years ago as a receptionist and admin assistant. Over the years I have assisted various departments from Accounts, Health & Safety, Contracts, Training & Operations. I enjoy the variety of work in Head Office and thrive when multitasking is required. Prior to Bennett Construction, I studied Real Estate Management and gained valuable experience in the property sector for a brief period. The built environment always appealed to me.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love being involved in a team environment, from Head Office, you have a unique perspective of getting to see the entire process from start to finish from prequalification’s to tendering and issuing of contracts and processing of invoices and payments. What keeps me motivated is seeing the collaboration between different departments, all working toward the same end goal. Each department can’t function without the other. It’s enjoyable to watch how every piece of the puzzle fits together.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Being able to contribute to a bigger project and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes by being organised, proactive and providing support when needed. What makes me proud is how the whole team works together to achieve a common goal and knowing my role is a part of a much larger process.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring several strengths to the workplace, including strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and attention to detail. They excel in multitasking and organisation. Additionally, women often play a key role in promoting work-life balance and organising social events—strengths that contribute to improved team dynamics and overall employee well-being.

Short bio

My name is Thayná. I am 29 years old and have been living in Ireland for 6 years. I am Brazilian and work as a Document Controller in the Irish construction industry. My role involves providing comprehensive administrative support to the team, ensuring efficient operations and organizing critical project information.

My passion for organization is reflected in my work, where I strive to structure processes and information effectively to ensure project success and alignment among teams.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is the dynamic nature of the industry. Every day brings new challenges and progress, which keeps the work exciting and engaging. This dynamic environment allows me to witness the rapid evolution of projects and seeing them develop step by step is incredibly rewarding. It’s this sense of progress and accomplishment that keeps me motivated every single day.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring unique strengths to the construction industry, such as strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to foster collaboration and communication among diverse teams. Their perspective often contributes to innovative problem-solving and a more holistic approach to project management. Additionally, women tend to excel at multitasking and managing complex workflows, which are essential in the dynamic and fast-paced construction environment. By breaking stereotypes and bringing diversity, women are helping to reshape the industry into a more inclusive and progressive space.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

What excites me most about the future of construction is the growing integration of technology and sustainability into the industry. Innovations like digital tools, automation, and green building practices are transforming how projects are planned and executed, making the industry more efficient and environmentally conscious.

Women are playing a pivotal role in shaping this future by bringing diverse perspectives, leadership, and collaboration to the forefront. As more women enter the field, they are breaking barriers, challenging traditional norms, and driving innovation. Their contributions are helping to create a more inclusive, forward-thinking industry that values adaptability, creativity, and teamwork. I believe women will continue to lead by example, inspiring future generations to see construction as a space where everyone can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Short Bio

I am an experienced Marketing Executive at Bennett Construction, where I have worked for the last 18 years. My career spans construction, engineering and financial services sectors, providing me with a robust blend of expertise.

I am passionate about marketing and design, continually seeking opportunities to expand my knowledge and drive innovation.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is the variety it offers, each day brings new challenges and opportunities, making it an exciting industry to work in. The fast-paced environment keeps me on my toes and constantly engaged.

How did you get involved in construction?

Growing up in a family full of metal fabricators/welders, I was always surrounded by the hustle and bustle of their projects and witnessing first-hand the challenges and triumphs that come with the territory. Watching my family tackle issues head-on and take immense pride in their work was inspiring. Their passion and dedication naturally rubbed off on me and probably lead me to pursue a career in the construction industry.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

In general, when I’m involved in the marketing and tender prep for projects and winning contracts is always a proud moment. From there watching the projects grow from inception to completion, and some winning numerous industry awards is incredibly rewarding. It’s fantastic to see the teams hard work and collaboration pay off.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women are incredibly strong and can bring their strengths to any industry. Some of these strengths include:

• Empathy and Emotional Intelligence – Women can improve team dynamics with their empathy and emotional intelligence.
• Multitasking and Organisation – Women can juggle multiple tasks and stay organised.
• Strong Communication Skills – Communication is key in construction, and women bring strong communication skills that enhance team collaboration.
• Creative Problem-Solving – Women are great at thinking outside the box and finding innovative solutions to tough challenges.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

The construction industry has made significant strides towards becoming more inclusive and supportive of women, though there’s still progress to be made. Over the past few years, I’ve noticed several positive changes:

• Increased representation: More women are entering the industry and taking on roles traditionally held by men.
• Improved PPE and Facilities: PPE has evolved to better fit women, and sites now include appropriate welfare facilities for women as standard.
• Companies are increasingly recognising the importance of creating inclusive work environments. This includes addressing workplace culture, promoting diversity, and implementing policies that support work-life balance.
• Recognition and Celebration: Events like the CIF International Women’s Day Event highlight the contributions of women in the industry and advocate for continued progress.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The construction industry is changing rapidly due to advancements in technology, modern construction methods, and sustainable building practices.

With their unique skills women are bringing new ideas and teamwork to solve industry problems. As more women join, they’ll help create a more diverse and innovative construction industry.

Short Bio

I enjoy spending time out hiking with my partner, playing games online with my friends, and spending time with my family especially my young nephew.

How did you get involved in construction?

I had wanted a career that was not purely office based, and that was varied. To that end, after an open day in WIT (now SETU) I pursued and completed a Level 8 in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering. When I saw the position with Weltec come up I went for it. The role is a mix of out on site and office based, however as I have moved more towards documentation I am mostly based in my office.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

For me it’s been mostly small moments, times where I have all the drawings prepped and ready to go in advance of being asked/ahead of schedule.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

It’s not always the most applicable to me as I usually wear jeans on site, but more companies are doing a range of trade/work pants for women, and steel toe cap boots too.

Short Bio

I am currently a final-year student studying Construction Management and Engineering at the University of Limerick. I am also working as a Setting Out Engineer on the No. 52 St. Stephen’s Green site. Previously, I have been involved in setting out for The National Archives in Dublin, as well as projects at St. Vincent’s CNU in Mountmellick and the Forensic Science Laboratory in Backweston, Celbridge, Co, Kildare.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is being part of a team and seeing our efforts come to life. I enjoy working on a variety of projects, from conservation and restoration to pharmaceutical work, and I am motivated by the constant change and challenges. Each day brings something different, whether it’s a new job or a project at a different stage, which keeps the work both interesting and rewarding.

How did you get involved in construction?

I first got involved in construction by visiting a Duggan Brothers site with my father growing up, where I got a glimpse of what was happening on-site. Later, during my Transition Year, I completed a placement with Duggan Brothers, which further sparked my interest. The summer before my Leaving Cert, I had the opportunity to work on the Forensic Science site under the guidance of Paddy Thornton, and the rest of the team such as Paul Lynch, Cathal Miller, Austin Dolan, Ronnie Byrne, and Killian Harris. They all took me under their wing, helping me explore different career paths and ultimately guiding me in my decision-making for the CAO. After careful consideration, I chose to pursue a degree in Construction Management and Engineering at UL and I have been in the working with Duggan Brothers ever since in parallel with college.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One moment I was particularly proud of was when a senior engineer went on annual leave, and I took on full responsibility for the setting out during those two weeks. When they returned, everything was perfect. Another highlight was managing my first large concrete pour—overseeing the setting out and coordinating the concrete and pumps. I also felt a great sense of accomplishment completing the Duggan Brothers, annual cycle, cycling the length of Ireland from Malin Head to Mizen Head and the breadth of Ireland from Dingle to Wicklow with colleagues.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

As a student who is new to the industry, I believe the construction sector has made notable progress in becoming more inclusive in recent years. From my early experiences, I’ve found that as long as you are willing to get involved and show genuine interest in the work, your gender doesn’t seem to affect how you are treated on-site. The men I’ve worked with have been supportive, offering guidance and encouraging me to take advantage of training and development opportunities. More companies are now actively promoting diversity, providing mentorship, and creating environments where women can thrive in leadership roles. While there’s still work to be done, it’s inspiring to witness the positive changes and the growing inclusivity within the industry.

Short Bio

I am a 21-year-old studying Construction Management at the University of Limerick. I began working with Duggan Brothers Limited in January 2024 and have been with the company ever since.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the industry. There’s always something happening, and every day brings new challenges that allow me to learn and grow. This constant change keeps me motivated and driven to keep improving my skills.

How did you get involved in construction?

My interest in construction started when my father began building a house. I was fascinated by the process and often spent time on-site with him, watching the development unfold. I also enjoyed construction studies in secondary school and knew from a young age that I want to be part of the construction sector.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One moment I felt particularly proud of my contribution was when I helped organise and clarify key information that identified the necessary steps to move a project forward. Additionally, joining the company as a woman gave me the opportunity to help raise the representation of women in the construction sector—an initiative I am passionate about.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I believe women bring a unique perspective to problem-solving and organisation, along with a collaborative approach to teamwork. We often offer different skills, experiences, and ways of thinking that are valuable in overcoming challenges and driving projects to success.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

I have seen a significant shift with more women speaking up about their experiences in construction and inspiring young girls to consider the industry. The narrative is changing, and it’s becoming more accepted as a norm for women to pursue careers in construction, demonstrating that it’s a field where their skills can thrive and be developed.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I am excited to see the gender balance in construction continue to shift, with more women taking on leadership roles in both companies and projects. As more women step into these positions, it will further normalise the presence of women in traditionally male-dominated fields and inspire future generations to pursue careers in construction.

Short Bio

Hi, my name is Rebecca Joanna O Brien. I am 19 years old. I am a first-year pipe fitting apprentice with Radley Engineering LTD. I am the first female pipe fitting apprentice in the southeast region of Ireland and I am one of three female pipe fitting apprentices in the country.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is the learning experience that I get first hand every day. What keeps me motivated every day is knowing that I have a stable career for the rest of my life as there are lots of construction jobs available in Ireland.

How did you get involved in construction?

I got involved in the construction industry mainly because of my father. He has been a huge inspiration for me to follow his path. My dad grew up working in construction with my grandfather, who starting work in construction when he was just 16 years old. He worked his way up over the years. My dad travelled and worked abroad for 4 years, following his return to Ireland in 1999 he commenced employment with SOLAS / WWETB in Waterford as a brick laying instructor. Although my father works in the stone masonry side of construction, it still sparked something in me with engineering.

Growing up I always loved to be outside helping my dad with the odd project of building everything and anything. When I was in secondary school, I took up design communication graphics and construction studies, so I got a feel for construction skills. Maurice Fehilly from Radley Engineering visited my school both when I was in 5th year and 6th year to give a talk on engineering and apprenticeship opportunities with Radley Engineering and I just knew that I wanted a job in engineering there and then. When I sent in my application of course I was nervous as I thought straight off the bat, I wouldn’t get the job as jobs in construction are all very male dominated, but then I got a call a week later for an interview and when I visited the workshop in Dungarvan in May 2024, I just knew that I wanted to work there. I then started in Radleys in July 2024 after my leaving certificate and that’s how I got involved in construction.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Highlighting their accomplishments shows the rewarding nature of construction work and the value women bring to the industry. A memory that I have from working on a project was when I finished my first modular pipe rack from start to finish. This rack is being used in the pharmaceutical industry which makes me proud to say that I am helping these factories produce medicine for the future. While building the modular pipe rack, I learned a lot of skills for my apprenticeship.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

In my opinion, women bring diversity to the construction industry, as you can get a female perspective which can lead to more innovative solutions and better decision making. I also feel women emphasise teamwork and empathy, creating a more supportive work environment that can enhance morale and productivity.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

In my short time in construction, I feel a sense of belonging. I have always felt included in my job, no one has ever left me out. In my opinion and experience the construction industry is very supportive of women; I don’t think the construction industry needs to change as it is already inclusive and supportive to women.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

Women are shaping the industry by bringing fresh perspectives and leadership styles that prioritise inclusion. Women’s increasing presence in construction roles helps to break down stereotypes and encourage younger generations to consider careers in the industry, leading to a more balanced workforce.

Short Bio

I am a third year Electrical Apprentice with Designer Group.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What keeps me motivated everyday is knowing I’m exercising my right to work, as many women fought for and knowing that my career is stable and abundant yet room for more if I wish.

How did you get involved in construction?

I was always a bit of a “do it, make it yourself”. Seen a good opportunity at a particular time to go for a career and I called people and applied until I could get in somewhere.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

A moment I felt proud of so far is being apart of the Building Hero’s campaign using social media for the Department of Further and Higher Education Research and Science to encourage people to take a career in construction with a focus on a trade and talking to parents and young adults about it.

I hope that data can show the effect it has in the coming number of years and I want to continue to encourage and advocate for women coming into the industry.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Genuine empathy, multitasking, critical thinking and new perspective on the little things which make the bigger things possible.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

I feel that when I started my apprenticeship only three short years ago, people did give odd looks but now through the use of social media, community engagement and representation it’s not such an odd look given anymore.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I think I’m most excited to see more capable and competent, female-led companies and female entrepreneurs emerging at this field in space. I’m also excited to see the attitude towards women change in the site sector, we still have awhile to go in that department.

Short Bio

I am an experienced construction project management professional currently working as a graduate at Glenveagh. With a background in the industry spanning over half a decade, I have developed strong skills in project coordination, scheduling, and stakeholder management. With a solid academic background in MSc Business Analytics and MBA in Finance and Strategic Management, I am committed to efficiency and continuous improvement and passionate about delivering high-quality projects while optimising resources. Outside of work, I am an adventure junkie and enjoy travel, fitness, am passionate about financial literacy, and in general maintaining a well-balanced lifestyle.

What do you love most about working in construction?

I love working in construction because every day is different from the other, as it is a fast-paced environment. I am always fascinated by how we bring ideas on paper to life. Sometimes, I watch documentaries on how some of the iconic buildings or structures that have stood the test of time were built. Being someone who easily gets bored, construction has ensured that excitement because I have a mix of office work and on-site involvement, making it a well-rounded career. Moreso, it is the impact we bring to the community. I have been involved in projects that have positively changed remote areas completely.

What keeps you motivated every day?

After a day of solving problems and overcoming challenges, I feel a sense of accomplishment. When I see good progress and hitting milestones at work, it is quite fulfilling. Also, knowing that every project adds to my experience and helps me advance in my career is a great motivator. Most importantly, knowing that my work is bringing a positive impact to the community and the built environment is deeply satisfying.

How did you get involved in construction?

I grew up in a household full of boys, surrounded by a strong sense of masculinity. That environment fuelled my competitive nature—I wanted to prove that I could do everything they could. When it came time to choose a career path, that same mindset stayed with me. I was determined to break stereotypes and pursue a field where women were underrepresented, rather than following the conventional expectations for women. That led me to study construction management, and I’ve been working in the industry since 2016. My ultimate goal is to specialize in project management, where I can lead and drive successful construction projects.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One of my most fulfilling experiences was leading the construction of a church in a Kenyan slum. The original structure, made of brown iron sheets, was inadequate for the growing community. By overseeing the project, I not only contributed to creating a more dignified place of worship but also provided employment and training to many young people in the area. This initiative empowered them with valuable skills and work experience, fostering a sense of pride and ownership within the community. The transformation of the church became a symbol of hope and resilience, positively impacting the lives of many. Since then, I’ve been involved in various projects, from transforming city skylines to improving infrastructure in remote areas, each contributing to positive change and reinforcing my commitment to impactful construction work.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring a range of strengths to the construction industry that go beyond traditional skill sets. For example, our innate ability to manage pressure, stemming from a deep internal resilience, enables us to navigate complex challenges effectively, keeping projects on track even under tight deadlines. Additionally, women are often excellent multitaskers, which is critical in an environment where juggling diverse responsibilities is the norm.

We tend to foster a workplace culture that values inclusion and respect. This emphasis on collaboration and open communication not only creates a more harmonious team dynamic but also drives creative problem-solving and innovation. Studies have shown that diverse teams, which include a balanced representation of women, are more likely to identify risks early and develop effective solutions, ultimately leading to safer and more efficient project outcomes.

By leveraging these strengths, women in construction are not just contributing to the day-to-day operations but are actively reshaping the industry into one that values resilience, creativity, and inclusivity.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Coming from Kenya, I have previously sat in meetings where I was the only woman and where there were no facilities designed for women’s needs. In Kenya, women in construction only make up about 10% of the workforce, highlighting a significant gender gap in the industry. Over the years, I have witnessed a gradual but positive shift: more companies are adopting inclusive policies, improving on-site amenities and fostering positive environments. Ireland is also at the forefront of championing for women’s inclusivity in the sector through various initiatives. The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has implemented an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) policy aimed at fostering a more diverse workforce. The policy includes outreach programs targeting girls in school to inform them about careers in construction. Additionally, organizations like the Women in Construction Ireland (WICI) are also a champion at this. WICI does this by focusing on mentorship, professional development and advocacy to create a more inclusive environment.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I am excited about the future of construction as it embraces groundbreaking technologies and sustainable practices that are revolutionising the way we build. Women are emerging as key drivers in this transformation, bringing innovative problem-solving skills and collaborative leadership to the forefront. Their unique perspectives not only challenge traditional norms but also pave the way for more inclusive and efficient project outcomes. As we look ahead, I see women continuing to shape the industry by fostering safety, enhancing communication, and inspiring the next generation of construction leaders.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love witnessing a project come to life from the ground up and see the result of how a structure could impact and benefit the surrounding community. It’s fulfilling to contribute to something that has a lasting impact.

How did you get involved in construction?

I started with a Business Degree; however, I had little passion for what I was doing. I decided to take a short break to explore my interests. While working on the renovation of my own home, I discovered quantity surveying. I found myself enjoying the challenge of keeping cost within budgets, measurements, and managing resources to bring a vision to life. What started as a personal journey turned into a passion I decided to pursue.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Although I am relatively new to the industry, as a graduate Quantity Surveyor, one of my proudest would be participating in the construction of my first project with Wills Bros Ltd., the Jamestown Bus Depot Project in Dublin. My role involves managing subcontractor accounts, handling sub-contracts, processing claims, and conducting assessments and valuations, all while collaborating closely with my team. Seeing the project come together and knowing that I contributed to its success is incredibly rewarding.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

The ability to foster emotional intelligence in a high pressure and fast-paced situations. This approach focuses on creating environments where teams feel more supported, heard, and understood.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Women are no longer an uncommon sight on construction sites, as the industry’s approach to diversity have evolved. In Ireland, the Women in Construction Ireland (WICI) organisation is fostering a supportive network for women in the sector. As more women take on leadership roles, there’s a shift toward building cultures and values that resonate with both male and female employees.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The traditional boundaries of what construction ‘should be’ are continually challenged. New and modern technologies are reshaping the industry, from AI-driven software to smart drone surveys, this opening endless possibilities for more efficient construction methods. Women bring diversity and reshaping what was once a predominantly male-dominated field. By embracing this, construction companies can bring new perspectives, ideas, and solutions to the table.

Short Bio

I’m currently working as a Site Engineer for Cairn Homes, Dublin. With a Master’s in Construction Project Management and a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering, I’m committed to driving successful projects while continually growing in my career. As a woman in construction, I’m dedicated to breaking barriers and inspiring others through my work. Beyond my professional achievements, I strive to be a kind and compassionate human being, always focusing on making a positive impact in both my personal and professional life.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I cherish most about working in construction is the sense of accomplishment that comes with seeing a project come to life.

I never had a childhood passion to become a site engineer; it was an instant decision of mine to pursue a career in civil engineering, I was drawn to the process, the way new structures are built and the effort behind them. To this day, I don’t regret my choice to follow this path. What motivates me most is the feeling of seeing a project I’ve worked on for months, or even years, come to completion. Each project represents the dream of many people, whether it’s a family’s new home, a safe workplace, a shopping centre, a place for entertainment, or an essential transportation facility. Knowing that I’ve played a role in making those dreams a reality is what drives me every day.

How did you get involved in construction?

I remember when I was 18, deciding on my future. Many doubted my ability to build a path in construction because I’m a woman, but my mom stood by me. She supported my dream, believing in me and wanting for me the opportunities she never had. My parents and siblings encouraged me to be an independent woman, which gave me the strength to push forward.

After completing my bachelor’s degree, I began my career as a junior civil engineer, back then I already decided to do my master’s from Ireland due to the abundant opportunities in the construction industry here. A year later, I moved to Ireland, completed my master’s successfully, and joined Cairn. Working with such a fantastic company and team has been incredibly rewarding, and seeing my efforts pay off brings me immense happiness. The journey has been challenging, with its fair share of ups and downs, but it has only made me stronger. I hope to inspire other women, like me, who are passionate about pursuing a career in construction and show them that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I believe women bring unique strengths to the construction industry, especially in terms of emotional support and fostering a sense of community. Whether at home or in the workplace, women often excel at creating a supportive environment, which is crucial in construction. The industry is made up of many different trades, and it requires a great deal of collaboration, responsibility, and overcoming challenges together.

I make it a point to greet everyone with a smile and initiate simple conversations on site. These small gestures help create a positive, inclusive atmosphere where people feel comfortable and motivated to work together. Women’s ability to connect with others, offer emotional support, and promote teamwork adds immense value to the construction industry, and it’s important that we recognize and embrace this contribution.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Construction is a male prominent industry and it’s a fact. I’m working as part of a site engineering team with five other men, and I’ve never felt out of place. The responsibilities may vary depending on our roles, but I’ve always felt valued. When I first started on a large site, I had no prior experience, and everyone I worked with managers, engineers, subcontractors, and their employees – all were GENTS. They taught me everything I know, and I continue to learn with their support. They’ve always shown me respect, and this goes for all women on the site. There’s a real sense of inclusion, with everyone being considerate and collaborative.

I believe the industry has made significant strides in becoming more inclusive and supportive of women, and this positive shift is inspiring. It shows that the construction industry is evolving toward a future where women can thrive and contribute to the success of projects just as much as men.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The things that most excite me about the future of construction is the continuous innovation and progress transforming the industry, from sustainability to advanced technologies. Women are playing an increasingly crucial role in shaping this future, bringing fresh ideas, creativity, and a collaborative approach that helps drive the industry forward. As more women join the field, I’ve noticed a positive shift in how people welcome and support us, recognising our value and contributions. This inclusive attitude fosters diversity in problem-solving and decision-making, ultimately strengthening the industry. I firmly believe that women will be at the forefront, leading construction toward more innovative, sustainable, and inclusive practices.

Short Bio

I’ve worked in EHS for over 6 years, partnering with senior management on Integrated Safety on varying sites, while developing safety programmes, ensuring communications, safety audits, accident investigations are thorough.  

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

There is something for everyone in the construction industry no matter what skills, strengths, and interests one might have. I’m motivated daily as I know I make a difference and shape the pharma construction world we live in as new medicines are made to help people.

How did you get involved in construction? 

My curiosity and interest led me to many conversations when deciding on a career move from HR to EHS. I gradually established myself in the world of construction through study and experiences along the way.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women will often strengthen communication and collaboration in a smooth and efficient manner. The opportunity to enhance decision making cannot be overlooked when it comes to the comprehensive challenges within construction projects.

Short Bio

I am a qualified health and safety professional, holding a Level 8 Higher Diploma in Occupational Health & Safety. This was achieved while working full time as a health and safety officer and being a mother to my three sons, a partner to Mick who is also a single dad of three. These challenges have helped in how I conduct myself in the workplace, where I have a demonstrated history of working in both challenging and demanding environments.

My health and safety career began in Bausch + Lomb, after 14 years of which were in operations as a team lead, and 8 years which was within in the environmental, health, safety and sustainability department. After training as a manual handling trainer and then becoming a manual handling instructor made me aware of the health and safety aspects in how we work. This is where I became interested in developing my career. The journey to becoming a health and safety practitioner took some time. I did go down the road of completing training and development courses, thinking this is where I would grow and develop my career, but eventually I decided to have a chat with myself regarding the journey I truly want to go on. Eventually I got the opportunity in the environmental, health, safety and sustainability department in Bausch & Lomb, which I’m truly grateful for. I transitioned from manufacturing after 22 years into construction in my 50s to broaden my health and safety knowledge and embrace new challenges in a different environment.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

Working in construction, I love the sense of accomplishment; you never end a working week without learning something new.

What keeps me motivated is working with different trades on different projects as a safety person within a PSCS role. This role creates new challenges in keeping everyone under my control safe and ensuring everyone works safely, and cohesively. It’s also the camaraderie, and communication between all contractors.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One moment that stands out for me was when the client had an internal audit which included contractors being audited. Huge amount of work was completed to ensure that the client was satisfied with our compound and how we conducted ourselves on their site. After completing a very successful audit and receiving praise for the quality of our work, and our compounds, seeing the team’s hard work pay off and knowing my leadership helped that environment made me feel extremely proud.

There’s a sense of pride at the end each project that I have played my part in contributing to this result. Communication between team members is critical to completing projects on time and with a high-quality finish. Seeing my team’s hard work pay off and knowing that my leadership reinforced my belief in the importance of women in leadership roles in construction. Women can help drive positive change and contribute to a more balanced and effective industry.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women can offer a diverse perspective and problem-solving approaches, which can enhance creativity and innovation on projects. Their attention to detail and commitment to safety also play a crucial role in ensuring high-quality work. A major strength is the ability to foster collaboration and communication within teams, and building inclusive environments, which can lead to a more effective and balanced workforce.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

The construction industry has come on so much to be inclusive of women in construction. Working in construction needs to have a diverse workforce, women on the ground in construction are more evident to those women working in office-based construction roles. This is a huge undertaking by women to understand construction work tasks, equipment, and materials. More office-based women in construction do go unseen and un-noticed where those of us that are on sites are visible. We may not be as many, but we are here, and our numbers are increasing, especially in the Health and Safety roles.

We do need more trades women, we need to be out there encouraging young girls to take on these trades, and to let them know that there are construction-based roles that are available in an office environment. We can do this by encouraging mentorship programs which connect women and young girls with professionals in the field.

We need to shift perceptions and encourage more women to enter the field by fostering a culture of respect and equality on job sites. Changes like this can be significant in supporting females in construction.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

It is empowering to see the industry change and becoming inclusive and supportive of women in construction. We must believe women will continue to break barriers, inspire others and drive positive change in construction.

Short Bio

I began my career in the biopharmaceutical industry before transitioning to the construction industry in 2020. With a strong foundation in quality management, I have spent my career working within high-standard quality systems and frameworks. As Integrated Management Systems Lead at Clancy, my role focuses on developing and maintaining systems that integrate quality, safety, environmental, sustainability, and energy management. This work ensures alignment, continuous improvement, and efficiency while meeting accreditation standards and adapting to evolving business needs.

Making the transition from biopharmaceuticals to construction, I adapted my transferable skills by training as an internal auditor for both ISO9001 and for Integrated Management Systems (ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001), aligning my skills with the business requirements to support effective systems in the construction sector. I also advanced my quality management expertise through the Chartered Quality Institute as a Practitioner of Quality.

After joining Clancy’s Sustainability Committee, I achieved certification in ISO 37000 Governance of Organisations and became actively involved in key sustainability projects, including sustainability reporting and the implementation of an energy management system. To further enhance my expertise in sustainability, I recently completed a Diploma in ESG and a Diploma in Innovation for Sustainability, demonstrating my strong commitment to driving sustainability initiatives within the industry.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love the pace at which the construction industry is embracing innovation. The inherent constraints of time and resources fuel this drive, and at Clancy, management is particularly receptive to adopting new ideas and systems that promote the long-term sustainability of work practices within this challenging environment. It’s exciting to witness traditional work systems evolve to incorporate international gold-standard practices, such as lean systems. The expanding opportunities to engage in new and varied projects, especially as the industry adapts to the growing demands of sustainability, are both exciting and deeply motivating.

How did you get involved in construction?

My entry into the construction industry was somewhat accidental. While the biopharmaceutical sector was rewarding, it lacked the flexibility and work-life balance I sought. Initially, I joined Clancy in an administrative role, thinking it would be a temporary position. However, management soon identified a need for someone to streamline and coordinate our management systems, particularly as we embarked on achieving ISO45001 accreditation and improving the management of audit data. My skill set aligned with these needs, and I was given the opportunity to step into the role of EHS & Quality Coordinator. As our systems improved and the scope of the work expanded, I transitioned into my current position as Integrated Management Systems Lead, which I thoroughly enjoy and Clancy allow me the flexibility and work life balance I was searching for.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I don’t believe there are “unique strengths” specific to women. Each individual brings their own strengths, regardless of gender, and labelling certain traits as unique to women risks reinforcing harmful gender stereotypes. Such stereotypes can lead to gender bias in the workplace, creating barriers to women’s career advancement. By moving away from these labels and assumptions, we can create an environment that allows everyone (men and women) to thrive based on their individual capabilities.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Although I’ve only been in the construction industry for four years, I’ve noticed a growing eagerness to recruit women, which is an important first step toward greater inclusion. It’s refreshing and encouraging to see more women in the workplace, as it makes both professional and social settings more enjoyable and balanced.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

It’s encouraging to see that when our company engages with secondary schools, that girls’ schools are included, to inspire female school leavers to consider careers in construction. It was particularly exciting to see that 22% of our 2024 student intake was female, which is a promising indicator for the future of female representation in hands-on construction roles. However, seeing more women moving into site-based positions is a positive step toward addressing gender disparity across all types of roles in the industry, which will assist in breaking down biases about the “type of roles” women can perform in the industry. This progress helps ensure a more balanced and inclusive workforce as the industry evolves.

Short Bio

I have a degree in Civil Engineering awarded by NUI Galway, in 2004. I joined JCL as a Site Engineer in 2004 progressing to Site Agent in 2006. Following completion of two Post Graduate Diplomas in Trinity College Dublin (Health & Safety in Construction and Environmental Engineering), I was appointed as EHS Manager in 2010. I completed a Masters Degree in Environmental Health & Safety in 2015 and manage the implementation of the JCL EHS systems across all sites and head office.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

The variety of the construction works that John Cradock Ltd completes from urban renewal to bridge construction to contracts for Irish Rail. Each contract involves different elements of construction and therefore, different hazards and risks. Ensuring that everyone who comes to work to our sites every day, returns home safe is our primary objective.

How did you get involved in construction?

I was interested in a career in construction and had enjoyed Technical Graphics during secondary school. I attended NUI Galway for my Civil Engineering degree and as part of that degree we were required to complete 6 months’ work experience. As a previous student of NUI Galway, John Cradock engaged with the college to recruit students for work placement. I had a successful interview and joined JCL as a student engineer in 2003. At the end of my work placement, I was asked to return to the company in 2004 on completion of my degree where I have worked since.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

JCL successfully achieved ISO 14001 status in 2013 and ISO 18001 (later ISO 45001) in 2014 since I was appointed EHS Manager for the company. We have also successfully maintained our Grade A Safe-T cert status through the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) for 15 years since 2010.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Gender balance on various Construction Industry Federation Committees has improved where more women are now members of these committees. Female participation in industry conferences has also increased with more women taking part as guest speakers, participants in panel discussions or chairing roundtable discussions.

Short Bio

Pauline McCarthy is an experienced Health & Safety, Quality and Environmental professional, with over 20 years’ experience in the civil engineering, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, telecommunications, and construction industries. She is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of health, safety, quality, and environmental practices within McGinty & O’Shea Ltd.

Pauline possesses an excellent in-depth knowledge of regulations, standards, and best practises relevant to the industry. This expertise enables her to stay abreast of evolving requirements and effectively implement them. She has a strong understanding of risk assessment methodologies and the ability to identify potential hazards and implement effective control measures. She has excellent communications skills to effectively engage and train employees at all levels, promoting a safety and quality culture.

As part of her responsibilities, Pauline carries out audits to ensure compliance with HSQE standards, through thorough assessments and inspections, she identifies areas that require improvement and implements corrective measures promptly. By maintaining a proactive approach, Pauline ensures that McGinty & O’Shea Ltd meets regulatory requirements and strives for continuous improvement in HSQE performance. She oversees compliance in the
company and reports performance to company management to inform policy change decisions.

Since joining McGinty & O’Shea Ltd., Pauline has helped the company achieve ISO 14001 accreditation, maintain an Integrated ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and Safe T Cert management system. The company maintains an ‘A’ rated Safe-T-Cert. It is recognised by IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) and the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) and is approved for the UK procurement process under the Safety Scheme in Procurement (SSIP). This award highlights our commitment to the implementation of the highest standards of safety in all aspects of our work.

Overall, Pauline’s combination of regulatory knowledge, risk assessment expertise, communications skills, and commitment to compliance make her a highly effective PSCS Health and Safety Co-ordinator.

Key Experiences and competencies:

• Management system design & full integration across three disciplines
• Maintain current third-party accreditations.
• Managing health & safety resources
• Staff training
• HSQE Auditing compliance across sites
• Ensuring statutory obligations are met
• Reviewing project management documentation prior to submission to client
• Reporting of company performance to management

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I have always said to myself that I would work for a ‘good boss’ and indeed McGinty & O’Shea Ltd is a very ‘good boss’. The company has always given me the flexibility in working days to facilitate family needs and emergency arrangements.

The response when asked is always ‘of course’.

This same sediment has applied if I suggest new ideas at work be it new procedures, technology changes or getting ready for revised legislation changes that affect the company activities.

I like that I add to job in that I add my own personal touch on things particularly in e,g. sending Fridays Words of Wisdom and Seanfhocails. The seanfhocail are so integral to our history and our personality as a people. I see people as key and strive to get the best of out all. e.g. “MOLANN AN OBAIR AN FEAR” (meaning the work proclaims the man). Also to note the Latin inscription in St. Paul’s Cathedral in London regarding its architect, Sir Christopher Wren, Si monumental requires, circumspect (If you seek his monument, look around you) and ‘God bless the work’ …..as my grandparents and parents used to say.

When I see good work, engineering designs, hear the engineers discuss and solve small and big problems, intelligence, forward thinking traits, saying yes to tasks and actually doing them, I get out of bed and rush to witness these traits every day, I do be so delighted.

How did you get involved in construction?

Since I was young, possibly 8 years old, was when I first realised my father could draw a very good design of a house, shed for the cattle, bicycle, tractors but could not draw landscapes. I was immediately drawn into his mind and the happiness all shared with my brothers and sisters on what or where he was attempting to do. It fascinated me, for my father left school from a very young age and did not have the qualifications to construct or reconstruct our own family house, sheds and other families’ necessary alterations or improvements. My mother’s influence was to help others participate and do what you can but be kind and willing.

So, when it came to my first choice to decide what to go, I went for science that I loved. I went as far as gaining a degree in Chemical Sciences from DCU-DIT Kevin Street at the time. The first job in this field was as a Compliance Officer in a pharmaceutical company. No radio or even to have a mug of tea at my desk was not allowed in the Compliance Department. I wanted out then. I had bought my first home in Roscommon and the pressing reminder every month to pay the dues and pay rent in Dublin. One day, I was reading the Irish Times and saw an advertisement for the first course for Master’s in Environmental, Health & Safety Management in Sligo. My instinct and I went for it. I looked at experience needed; I didn’t have the engineering skill but from my background but only knew that I would love learning this aspect and that’s what motivated me to learn more and eventually lead into the construction sector. I was so happy and eager to be heading into construction sector.

So, then my first job in the construction sector was in Dublin in a Health & Safety role. I was on my own and in those times, it was expected to do it and better get it done. I had to do a lot of learning on the job about how construction goes, the design elements, clients’ power, the HSA powers, learning what so many things were ranging from 600T Excavators to mini excavators to smaller items to sprockets, check values, hose bursts. In those days, if you wanted to get your job as Health & Safety done, as in safety rules or procedures, one nearly had to be a ‘bitch’ and widely known that’s what it took – it was a different culture then.

I never resorted to using foul language even at the bad times because the background in me could see it takes a lot to deal with people and motivate and see their way, but also to join up our efforts was the task to seal and put some faith in each other to show consistent and, eventually, confidence in our shared roles when the toughest times came – that the evidence and standing up for the men too would show a hidden well done. I admired all their work every day and what transformation the men were going to make. I looked at every man’s eyes to see what magic they had. They worked hard and their long hours, admired their strength without looking at ‘Manual Handling aspects’, I admired how they loved their tea break, flasks of tea or coffee, lunch boxes and when I was invited to join, I was on Cloud 9.

By the time in 2010s-2020’s, the culture had shifted, it is easier dealing with the tasks of the role, but it continues to delight me what I am going to see the next day. I still admire what construction ground crews can do, what the engineers do, what the project managers do. I find that I meet very intelligent and right people every day. I am motivated to work with them. I even take a photograph of the crews, engineers and project managers behind all the work they have solved, constructed or designed throughout the years. While writing this, it’s this that I go back to and it immediately gives the lovely happy feeling of those wonderful memories. I’m so grateful to be in a job that I am in, it’s a privilege.

The cycle returns, I have brought my daughter in the last two years for a day out with Mammy at her work, all behind the highly mobile construction traffic management fence lines. She first gets dressed up, high visibility vest and hard hat and a green book to write down what names of persons she has greeted and what plant item was observed. Her first job, however, is to say hello to the person and call that person by his/her name, shake their hand and then say well done to the mighty work they are doing. That’s all for an 8-year-old for now. Each year, she brings her own fancy handbag with kit-kats or some light snack for the men. Next summer when she will be 9, she will advance to the task of recording the Labour & Plant Returns to aid the Engineer and may be carrying out a physical GA2 check on a plant item.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Highlighting their accomplishments shows the rewarding nature of construction work and the value women bring to the industry.

My impact on a project or team that I was especially proud of was a few times, and those times was always with others e.g. with Directors, Contract Managers, Project Managers, Engineers, Ground Workers, Administrative Staff.

1. Moving from a substandard level to standard level to highest grade in Safety Management systems. i.e. From C- grade to a consistent A grade for 8 consecutive years.
2. Being able to implement a new system to a company within 3 months and be audited on after 3 months was a success. i.e. implemented ISO 14001 Management system to the company with minimum disruption, minimum effects to the Project Managers running of their duties.
3. Being able to integrate three management systems within 3 months of starting in a company – ISO 9001, 14001 and Safe T Cert.
4. Having the knowledge of an uncertain aspect of new projects ahead of tendering and operations of a project and being able to do it. E.g tree surgery rules, explaining the rules, knowing the right controls and feeding this information to Site Staff to equip them faster.
5. During HSQE safety tours or inspections, there were times that health and safety advice needed to be pressed, pursued and followed through if it was highlighted by a smaller contractor that didn’t have the voice to articulate to his Supervisor/Client. This may have meant that I stayed in the particular area, stop the work, ensured that it was stopped and waited it out until controls were agreed.
6. There were times that conflict resolution principles were needed. The airing of points of view of both parties e.g. one contractor working near another contractor scope of works. To calm down the situation and bring the two persons of concern together to air out their concerns. On another occasion, I gave a reward of takeaway tea and muffin for a more serious conflict and sit on the grass side. The understanding of where contractors were driving from to get to the place of work, his family background, the frustrations of the job, family life, lack of respect of the others’ work, time and money all contribute to frustration and annoyance. It’s important to be aware of these and get a relationship from the start.
7. Bringing out the best in one of the ground workers. There was an opportunity for a CIF Safety Representative to be nominated. I nominated a particular worker as he had shown traits of improvement and wanted to contribute in his way. He actually received the award, and he was so delighted. There was a good ‘fuss’ made and the excitement and how proud his Project Manager and Director was of him. To draw attention on his contribution meant a lot. We remember Dermot Carey, CIF being there and one of the HSA Inspectors for the photo shoot. To see his delight was translated to the rest of the other men and women. What CIF did for that person has lasted to this day.
8. When my daughter was 4 months old during maternity leave and even though there was H&S cover, I was asked to help out External Audits and Tender submissions.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

This emphasizes how women’s perspectives and skills enhance the industry and encourages others to recognize their value.

From my experience, the following skills help the role, strengthens any given situation:

• Persistence working on tasks.
• Collaboration is a helpful skill. Collaborating flexibly with others can help you develop stronger working relationships. Being good at communicating and following up to end goal or target.
• Empathy skills. If you sense an employee is becoming emotional, using empathetic language to reassure them about your expertise and intentions e.g I understand this can be a frustrating process, but we will approach this with great care.
• Conflict resolution.
• Being humble.
• If someone asks to get a job done in agreed time, do it as per agreement.
• Industry knowledge can help you work better in any role, as it can give you insight into common problems and their potential solutions.
• Being a member of the CIF organisation, subscribe and participate in your interests and industry topics.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

Everyone can make a difference to one like my father with no qualifications but the want to do it. I have met some great women in construction. I see them and see what they must have undertaken to get to their position and that is not looking at their qualification. The 500 or 600 points in the leaving cert does not matter to me, if I can see men and women at a basic level that the practice is done or trying to do, I know I will see them ‘sail’ and eventually get to the ‘island’. It’s not about ‘get the fish, its how to get the fish’ i.e. not scan the ground with the CAT scanner, show him/her how to scan the ground with a CAT scanner. I fully believe in this approach. It will shape who they will become.

Having heard recently the phrase ‘frog in a well’ that would indicate to me inexperience and ignorance of the rules as well as thinking of the huge wall the frog has to climb to get out. The people in these times may have lack of practice, may have lack of awareness of the protocols, may have high anxiety, may be saying yes to things that is not fully understood or some may not do what we want as employers to get the job done, may surface level listen to their supervisors or mentors, may undermine the ground worker or others. So to shape the next person to enter this field is indeed a special person. I do tell the truth and it’s important that any person hears the truth, whether they like it not.

They will have to take the word’ No’ when its is said to them. They will need to respectful, be willing, be open and good at conflict resolution – be humble is another good trait.

Note From HR: Breda should be an inspiration to us all, to see someone follow their dreams and as she said take a total leap of faith to pursue a different career. Construction can certainly have its challenges but the skills Breda holds from her career in retail and knowing how to deal with people with care and compassion, has helped her greatly in her role as a Safety Advisor. We are delighted to be able to support Breda in completing her Level 8 at UCC and we wish her a continued successful career at MMD Construction Cork Ltd.

Short Bio

I have worked in Retail most of my career but had a great interest in the health and safety of others. During lockdown I had time to reflect and maybe I could take a leap of faith and follow my dreams of working in the health and safety sector full time. I did a 2-year diploma and took the plunge and looked for a health and safety role. Fortunately, MMD were recruiting for a health and safety advisor and luckily, I was chosen and have never looked back. That was over 2 years ago. I am currently in my final year of UCC completing a level 8 course to develop and learn more about health and safety. I’m very grateful to MMD who have given me this opportunity to be the best that I can be in my role as safety advisor in construction.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love that no two days are the same. Every day brings challenges and problem solving but also brings great rewards. For e.g. it is always challenging when you have a big audit or important visit on site but I don’t think of it as a negative challenge but an opportunity for me to grow by learning. While there may be some lessons learned along the way I feel if I put the effort and passion in I will reap the rewards afterwards. Also being part of a great team and engaging and working with others is another reason why I love working in construction. The builders also give me tips on how to insulate my home better so I learn a bit of DIY as well which is an added bonus! (:

How did you get involved in construction?

It all came from removing myself from the retail environment after 25 years which was extremely hard to let go from and take off my managers badge and put my safety hat on so to speak! When I achieved my Diploma in health and safety, I was still unsure of which health and safety route to take but I felt the growth of construction, working outdoors and my dad being a plasterer in his day definitely stirred me towards construction. I was very fortunate MMD gave me a chance to spend some time on a construction site before I started with them to ensure I was really ready to work in construction. After spending a couple of hours on a busy construction site and observing everything and getting a tour from the site manager I was totally in awe of my surroundings, how busy everyone was but still had time to say hello to me. Everyone worked very well as a team and I knew then working in construction was where I wanted to be.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

There has been a few moments but one that really stands out is when I was given my very first site to run and there was an impending audit due which I knew I could not do alone. Working with all men on site I had to gain their trust and get them all onboard if we were to succeed in the audit. Theres no way to a man’s heart than through his stomach! so I decided to buy chocolates and biscuits and hold a team meeting with everyone on the tasks they had to preform to get ready for the audit. After tea and biscuits and some general easy conversations about life and other issues I was able to build up a rapport with the team on site and really got everyone involved. Asking for opinions and listening to their suggestions on how to get us across the line for the audit really helped with engagement and working together as a team. We did amazingly well in the audit and I was so proud of our achievements. As a woman it can be daunting working with a lot of men but once they realise you are there to offer support and guidance and are genuinely concerned for their safety and welfare they will pay you back tenfold.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I think we have come a long way in thinking construction is for men only. We may not be as strong as a man but we can contribute as much strength and determination in other ways. I know from my own experience on site men sometimes would prefer to talk to the opposite sex if they were having a bad day and women can be great listeners and the men don’t have to put on a tough act in front of a man which encourages them to open up on their feelings more. Women are supposed to be great multitaskers and this can be very useful when the sites are busy and you have to juggle everything. I also feel as a woman I can have a different point of view than maybe a man would and men appreciate when women share their thoughts or have a different opinion on things in the workplace.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Women break the stigma of what jobs are suitable for their gender. Working in construction has broken down this stigma and barriers and it is very encouraging when women decide to join a construction company and prove there is inclusivity and support of women in this industry.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

At the end of the day, we are all equal and finally women can pretty much go for any role they want. Construction for men only is a long-forgotten taboo of the past thankfully. There is so much opportunity in construction for women from project managers to marketing and so much more. There is so much variety in this industry which I never knew until I started in construction. Personally, I’m very happy to be joining the ever-growing list of women who enjoy and love working in the construction industry and hope this trend will continue to grow and grow as the years go on.

Short Bio

As the Lead ESG Coordinator at Designer Group, I spearhead the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into our operations, aligning with global standards such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). With a deep passion for sustainability, I work closely with cross-functional teams to drive impactful initiatives that reduce carbon emissions, enhance resource efficiency, and foster social responsibility. My role involves strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and collaboration with industry stakeholders to future-proof our business against emerging regulatory and market challenges.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What excites me most about working in construction is the opportunity to influence one of the world’s most resource-intensive industries to become a leader in sustainability and innovation. Construction accounts for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, and every decision we make, from materials sourcing to energy use, has a profound impact on our planet. Knowing that I play a key role in transforming traditional processes and driving a shift towards circular economy models, net-zero strategies, and sustainable procurement practices, keeps me motivated every day. The dynamic nature of construction offers endless learning opportunities and challenges that push me to innovate and grow.

How did you get involved in construction?

My journey into construction stemmed from a keen interest in the intersection of sustainability and infrastructure development. Initially, my focus was on corporate sustainability, but I quickly realized that the built environment presents unparalleled opportunities to drive meaningful change, whether through carbon reduction, circular economy strategies, or social impact initiatives. My career path led me to Designer Group, where I saw a perfect synergy between my sustainability expertise and the company’s vision to achieve net-zero goals by 2035.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One of my proudest moments was presenting Designer Group’s sustainability initiatives and achievements during a client pitch to a key potential partner. I had the opportunity to showcase our journey toward net-zero, our sustainability strategy, and the tangible progress we had made in reducing our environmental impact. The presentation was met with great appreciation and helped in securing the project. This experience reinforced the value of our sustainability efforts and highlighted how strategic ESG initiatives can drive business success while making a positive impact on the industry.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring fresh perspectives and unique strengths to the construction industry, like adaptability, creativity, and a knack for collaboration, qualities that are essential for tackling the complex challenges. Having diverse voices at the table leads to better decisions, smarter solutions, and more innovative ways to meet goals. Inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s a game-changer. When we embrace gender diversity, we’re building stronger teams, creating more sustainable projects, and setting the industry up for long-term success in a world that’s rapidly changing. Organizations with greater gender diversity have been shown to achieve higher profitability and improved risk management, making the case for more women in leadership roles even stronger.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

The construction industry has made significant strides in fostering inclusivity, driven by both regulatory pressures and a cultural shift towards diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Key improvements I’ve observed include policy changes, greater visibility of women in leadership, and targeted efforts to encourage young talent through mentorship and educational partnerships. While progress has been made, continued efforts are needed to further break down barriers and create an environment where women can thrive.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction excites me because of the increasing focus on sustainability, digital innovation, and social responsibility. Women are playing a crucial role in driving these changes by leading initiatives that prioritize environmental stewardship, diversity, and community engagement. As more women take on influential roles, I believe the industry will benefit from a more holistic, long-term vision that prioritizes people, planet, and profit in equal measure.

Short Bio

I began my journey in health and safety while working at a façade design company in 2015. Later, while at John Paul Construction, I was commissioned to take photos for their EHS department. This experience sparked my interest in health and safety, leading me to pursue further studies in the field and ultimately decide to make it my full-time career.

I have been working as an EHS advisor in construction for over two years, gaining hands-on experience on-site and engaging directly with workers about safety. I believe that being on the ground and actively communicating with workers is a crucial part of my role. Through my time on various construction sites, I have learned more about EHS, construction, and working with people than anywhere else. I am currently studying Occupational Safety and Health at UCD and thoroughly enjoying it.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day? 

I enjoy working with lots of different people on the construction sites and keeping all the workers as safe and healthy as possible.

How did you get involved in construction? 

My family business, a façade design company called BDA back in 2009. Design responsibility for EHS in design changed in 2013. All designers as part of new legislation had to consider the workers more when designing and planning. Wellbeing in the workplace and air quality also became more important in construction.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Photographing 120 women on the NCH as part of  International Women’s Day for a giant poster hung on the side of the building to promote women in Construction. Organising and promoting safe and well training for 600 workers from all over the world who spoke 10 different languages (on one of the biggest constructions sites in Europe the New Children’s Hospital D8).

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry? 

We have excellent communication skills and we are very good at multitasking in my opinion.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

In 2017 in JPC I remember the directors telling me about how important it was to promote women in construction. I was informed about the plans to attend all the Women’s Day events. HR had also been attending construction recruitment events with female project managers from the sites to talk to the female students. I could really see a positive push to bring more women into the construction industry. JPC were very supportive when I had my second child, when I went back to the work place, which really helps women in the industry.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry? 

While working on the NCH site in D8 we had a higher percentage of females working on the site compared to most sites in Ireland and the UK.

So I know from experience that more women in the workplace brings diversity and equality to an expanding, interesting and worthwhile industry. Which makes me very excited.

Short Bio

I have been working as a health and safety officer in construction for the 6 years now. I joined a civil engineering company in Dublin when I finished my health and safety degree in 2018. I worked on a variety of large-scale construction projects from warehousing to housing. I spent most of my time out on site for the duration of my 5 years working with this company. I got the opportunity to move closer to home, as I am from county Sligo, when I got the job as safety, health and sustainability manager for Vision Built which has its factory in Tubbercurry.

I am the youngest of 6 girls which you might think would make working in the male dominated construction industry a challenge, but I have a very influential father who, despite having no boys, managed to pass on all his knowledge to his 6 daughters.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day? 

One of the things I love most about working in construction is that no two projects are the same. All projects have their own unique challenges and you must approach each new project with a clean slate. Having to come up with new ideas and innovations to be able to complete a project is an exciting part of my role with Vision Built. This is something I really love about working for Vision Built, offsite construction is a very new and exciting part of the industry. Being part of this new way at the early stage, I get to be involved with exploring new ways to make the factory work more efficiently. It is a very exciting time to be in that industry.

How did you get involved in construction?

I wasn’t planning on construction as my career path as such. I originally worked in the live music industry following the completion of my first degree. I was part of the management team running a 1,000 person venue in England. Which was extremely fun and exciting from day to day. I enjoyed the safety side of this job so much that I decided to go back to college to train in health and safety. Which is what brought me back home to Ireland and Sligo specifically, as IT Sligo, as it was at the time, had a great health and safety course. While in my final year I was applying to all sorts of jobs, including one for a construction company in Dublin. I wasn’t put off from a job in construction as I had previously worked in a venue and security work which was also a very male dominated industry. I went for interview and met the female company director and I never looked back. She made me feel totally at ease and throughout my time working with Castlebrowne Civil Engineering, she was always there in my corner should I need any help or advice. Even though I was one of the only women on the sites at the time I felt as though I fit from day one and I knew a career in construction was for me.

I work on large-scale warehouse projects primarily some of the biggest in the country on site with over 100 people some days. I was very lucky that Castlebrowne had some really experienced people working with them who took the time to teach me so much about all aspects of construction. That knowledge I have brought with me throughout my construction career and I will always be grateful for the people who helped me along the way.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Getting Castlebrowne to the high rating in in Safe-T-Cert audit was a big achievement for me. And again with the safety team at Vision Built achieving the ISO45001. Quite often having a safety officer, etc, within a company is a tick the box exercise but having companies that want to achieve the highest standards in safety is critical to a safer industry for all and I am very proud to be apart of that.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

For the construction industry to move forward and build faster, safer and more efficiently, it must adapt and change. It needs to be open to new ideas and insight. Woman who are in the industry or new to the industry need to challenge the old ways of doing things to help make this change happen. Women can bring new ideas and insights to an industry that needs to adapt to keep up with demand. I know it is very cliché to say women are better at planning, organising and multitasking, but sadly we still live in a world where they are the roles that women quite often take on at home and at work. I know I do it myself through no fault of my husband, but that is how life was for us growing up, watching our parents, etc. But these are invaluable skills in any workplace but particularly construction where time is often the greatest resource we have.

I have often sat around a table being the only women in the room and felt lucky to have earned my place at that table, but with that felt a huge level of responsibility to ensure that my contributions are heard. I have learned never to assume that someone else has your knowledge and expertise. If you know something or want to ask a question you must bring that to the table as there maybe people there who hadn’t thought of it or don’t understand it and you have that knowledge to explain it.

Early in my role with Vision Built, I was invited to join my manager in a meeting possibly to observe as I was only a few weeks in at this point. In that meeting I asked what I felt was a very logical question that no one else had asked, it changed the whole direction of the meeting. Afterwards a senior member of the team present at the meeting complimented me for my insight. This showed me the importance of speaking up and believing in myself and the knowledge and expertise that I bring to my current role. It also gave me the confidence to do it again the future and feel valued in my position. I hope that all women new or existing in construction can feel this same level of value in the careers.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

From my own personal experience having worked in the traditional construction site and now working at an off-site manufacturing factory, this has had a major impact on me. Being able to be in one place and have shorter time on site, it is much easier to plan for. The old 7 to 7 day, away from home Monday through Friday really doesn’t suit the female workforce if they are trying to balance kids and childcare, etc. Because of this, you see less women on site and more in office roles with companies and I would like to see that change. Over the years, I have met plenty of women on construction sites, these are usually in jobs or with companies that allow for flexibility and can plan and manage their own time but still get their work done on time to the highest standard.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I am very hopeful that more women will continue to join the construction workforce over the coming years. I think the integration of boys and girls in secondary schools will help to offer more construction skills courses to girls and from there, get more of them into the engineering and construction courses in colleges. The new off-site manufacturing that I am a part of with Vision Built could be a great way to get more girls to learn trades or apprenticeships. If you can go to a factory everyday, don’t have to be out in the wind, rain and cold, learn your trade and only go to site a few times a month, this could be much more enticing for girls or women to join this very rewarding industry. I hope that in the future thanks to all the amazing things myself and my female colleagues in the construction industry are doing today to make the construction industry a better, meaningful and inclusive place for women to work, that my daughter would not hesitate to follow a career into the construction industry such as I have done.

Short Bio

Currently working for Vision Built since the start of 2023, with responsibility for HSSQ. Prior to this I worked in the UK and Australia in various construction, rail and mining roles for over 20 years.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

Working in construction offers a meaningful link to what we do on a daily basis, to improved standards for our communities. I personally enjoy seeing new spaces being created for our clients and building users whether that is a new school, residential or public area.

How did you get involved in construction?

I had no big plan to get involved in construction. Originally I studied Environmental Science, and I recall a university lecturer saying that the way to learn was to get into the “dirty and risky” businesses. This has always stuck with me and I have gravitated to higher risk industries where there is a continual growth curve and opportunities to apply leading practices to reduce the risks.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Being able to create opportunities and see people establish a career in construction, whether they may not previously consider is always very rewarding. I am particularly proud of the women and other minorities that are still working in the industry through these opportunities I created in my team through traineeships, work experience, return to work schemes.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

I have seen the industry proactively challenge their biases to become more inclusive. This is very positive and as a result there are more women visible in all areas of the sector.  It is great to see more allyship from male colleagues and supporting equity and equality for all under represented groups.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

Construction is becoming smarter, digital and more automated. I am excited to see how this will eliminate existing stereotypes. To support this we need to show more role models in exist roles and the benefits of working in construction such as good salaries, opportunities for development and travel, which will attract the future generations into the industry.

Short Bio

I moved to Ireland from Ukraine in April of year 2022. I started my career for Belhouse Construction Ltd. in September 2022 as a Purchase Manager for the scaffolding division of the construction company. Based on my previous experience, I was confident I had a lot to offer the construction company in purchasing materials from Ireland, Europe, and China. I also had interest in Health and Safety. In 2023 I upskilled here in Ireland, and I completed Working at Heights Instructor Training. In 2024 I was graduated as Manual Handling QQI Level 6 Approved Instructor. My role in the company includes Working at Heights and Manual Handling Trainings for Belhouse Construction Ltd. employees as well as safety harness training and inspection. My role within the company has grown into dealing with Health and Safety manager and dealing with office administration and management duties.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I enjoy dealing with the various people and the different elements within construction. I also find construction very fulfilling in its quest to provide housing in such a demanding market

How did you get involved in construction?

With the diversity of my previous employment in a manufacturing company, I believed I had the experience and interest to deal to work in the construction industry, particularly with the purchasing of various kinds of materials from foreign countries as well as my experience in logistics and Health and Safety. I was happy to contribute my skills to Belhouse Construction, at the time the company was looking for an employee to purchase scaffolding materials for construction demands.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

I am proud to be certified in Ireland as an Instructor in Manual Handling and Working at Heights and to be involved with the Health and Safety activity for the company. I get great satisfaction in overseeing staff trained on a permanent basic and to keep a high level of safety standards.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I feel that women are able to bring to the construction industry a different level of resilience, strength and emotional comfort to find unique solutions.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

I feel the construction industry is great in supporting women in the industry, and there seems to be an interest for the care about women’s comfort in the workplace, to design work garments that fit women, and to provide education to women in construction industry.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

Construction is growing and providing qualified service in construction and modern design and to change with the environment also to using the latest innovation solutions. Women could take an essential part to this process at all stages, including design and engineering, especially they could establish their own construction business.

Short Bio

I grew up on a large tillage and livestock farm which is where my love and appreciation for nature began. I completed my BSc in Environmental Science in NUIG and a few years later went back and completed my MSc in UCD in Applied Environmental Science, where I was able to learn how I could make an impact on the environment as part of my career.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I enjoy the diversity of civil projects that I am involved in and how every day presents something different. There is such a variety of surrounding environments and habitats depending on the project which require their own particular measures, which I find interesting and allows me to cover many different aspects of environmental protection while completing projects.

How did you get involved in construction?

I was originally unaware that my degrees could lead me towards working in construction until I was looking for a placement as part of my masters degree, where I was in touch with the ecologists working on the N22 Macroom to Baile Bhuirne bypass development. They put me in contact with the Environmental Manager of the scheme, where I began as a graduate environmental officer and I just thoroughly enjoyed the work that was involved and the scale of the project covering so many aspects, and a fantastic learning experience that I knew that’s what I wanted to stay in for my career. I enjoy being outdoors and this type of work allows for that while also working with a large team both on and off site.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Although I’ve been involved in many projects around the country ranging in sizes and surrounding environments, one of my proudest moments was at the completion stage of the N22 Macroom to Baile Bhuirne bypass project where we had a specialist aquatic ecologist monitor the river system every 6 months over the course of 4 years before, during and after completion of the project and it was determined, in some cases, that the water quality had actually improved. It was then I really understood the impact that I can have on projects and with continuous monitoring and implementing mitigation measures and working with the site teams, ensuring the job can still be carried out to a high standard and on time, but also protecting surrounding important habitats such as these as a number of the rivers were home to the critically endangered Freshwater Pearl Mussel species.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I feel women bring a lot of alternative ideas or perspectives to various areas of construction, whether it is within management meetings regarding works, mitigation measures out on site or resolving conflicts that benefit both the entire team and the project itself. Women often excel at communication which is so important when decisions need to be made amongst a large team. Although traditionally a male dominated career path, I am seeing more women joining construction in a wide range of roles which is really encouraging other women to aspire to working in the construction industry also. Women can bring a heightened sense of risk assessment to situations and positively influence overall safety across sites and I am strongly of the opinion that having a more diverse working dynamic of both men and women greatly improves efficiency.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Although the overall percentage of women in construction is still quite low in Ireland, I am seeing gradual changes of a more inclusive working environment and more inclusive language being used in that regard. Having more exposure to women in roles both on and off site is so important for both site personnel and office staff to be a part of. As younger graduates are enquiring about or entering construction, I feel it can make an enormous difference to their longevity within the industry if they see other women in roles that they can build a career towards. I know from my own experience that it has helped with my confidence in my role seeing other women as part of construction teams too and in leadership roles and that it is important to have women as part of decision-making dynamics. As part of STEPS week, we have always had both men and women attend schools to promote engineering and showing children that it is not just men who can work in construction and exposing them to the diversity of careers that they can aim for is hopefully encouraging the next generation of women too.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

It is exciting to see positive changes in workplaces that drive a more inclusive working environment that does not discourage women from entering into the construction industry. More women are entering construction management, influencing policies, and advocating for safer, more inclusive work environments. Their leadership is paving the way for the next generation and changing industry culture. Women are driving change across the construction industry and I am excited to see the future of a positive and more inclusive working environment on sites for everyone.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love about working in construction is the ever-evolving nature of the field. Each day presents new opportunities to learn and face fresh challenges, and I truly value the continuous growth that comes with it. As a site-based Environmental Advisor, I have the chance to make a tangible impact on the sustainability and environmental aspects of construction projects. Ensuring that these projects are completed in an environmentally responsible way while adhering to relevant guidelines, is deeply fulfilling. Whether it’s reducing waste, ensuring proper disposal, minimizing pollution, enforcing incident response protocols, or protecting ecosystems, the work I do feels meaningful and essential. What makes my role even more rewarding is knowing that my efforts help the site team enhance their environmental knowledge, allowing us to make small, positive changes together.

How did you get involved in construction?

Spending most of my time on construction sites with the site teams, I have the opportunity to directly influence their environmental strategies, manage waste disposal, reduce pollution, and help improve environmental awareness across the team. My journey has been more about identifying the need for environmental guidance in construction and stepping up to fill that role, rather than following a specific pre-set career plan.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One moment that really stood out for me was helping the site team become familiar with the company’s environmental permit system. When the project started, most people had little to no knowledge of the system. The site team had been pumping dirty water without a permit to pump, resulting in environmental incidents. No one realized they needed a permit for pumping and should have consulted an ECoW or Environmental Advisor beforehand.

I worked closely with the team to deliver a Toolbox Talk (TBT) about environmental permits. I walked them through the entire process, explaining how the system works, and why they should consult with the ECoW or Environmental Advisor. Since it was my first time working with the site team, English isn’t my first language and I was nervous speaking in front of a room full of men from different backgrounds, ages, regions, and nationalities, I didn’t expect the team to immediately remember everything I had presented. I thought it would take them some time to get used to the system. However, the next day, I was pleasantly surprised when I received a call from the site team asking for advice and a permit to pump before the work commenced.

At that moment, I felt incredibly proud. It was a powerful reminder that the site team respected my role and the information I provided, rather than dismissing me because of my size, age, gender, or nationality. It was a truly meaningful experience, showing how much impact I could have, even as a woman in a male-dominated environment.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

One of the key strengths of women is their natural ability to collaborate, foster connections between teams, and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard—qualities that are essential in the construction industry.

Women also have a keen eye for detail and dedication, which can make a significant impact by helping keep projects on track and maintaining high standards.

Moreover, women in construction act as powerful role models, inspiring others to pursue careers in the field. Representation matters, and seeing women succeed in traditionally male-dominated industries helps drive a shift toward more inclusive and diverse workplaces. From my experience, women play an essential role in the construction industry by contributing to a more collaborative and supportive work environment, which ultimately benefits the entire industry.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

The construction industry has made remarkable progress in becoming more inclusive and supportive of women. Over the years, I’ve witnessed more women take on leadership roles, key positions, and traditionally male-dominated tasks on construction sites, demonstrating that gender is no longer a barrier to success in the field. There’s also been a stronger focus on mentorship and networking opportunities specifically for women, helping them advance in their careers and gain greater visibility.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I believe the future of construction holds immense potential for continued innovation and transformation, especially with the increasing focus on sustainability, technology, and efficiency. As more women step into leadership and technical roles, they will play a crucial part in driving the integration of new technologies, improving safety standards, and promoting sustainable practices within the industry.

The future of construction is not just about building structures, but about creating a more inclusive, sustainable, and forward-thinking industry. Women will undoubtedly be at the forefront of this evolution, shaping how we work and innovate. The opportunities ahead are exciting, and women are set to be key drivers of this change.

Short Bio

I attended UUJ, Belfast, studying Environmental Health, which opened the door to health and safety. My first job out of university was an EHS officer in a bakery, which really helped shape my approach to safety and bringing people along on the journey. I appreciated the need for relationship building and collaborative working and have brought that into every role since then. I started working with Cairn in 2019 and joined a much smaller team, and watched it grow to what it is now. I joined as a safety officer and now fulfilling a multi-site role, as a health and safety manager.

Outside of work, I am a mother to Jack, wife to Ronan and I love reading books, drinking wine, and eating!!

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love about construction is the diversity of the role and working with a lot of different personalities. My sites are generally at different stages, so no two days are the same, but skills and knowledge from all jobs are transferrable and learnings implemented. I love the comradery of the site teams and sub-contractors and enjoy the challenge of problem solving and helping others. The motivating factor is the progression of my team and the progression of a build. It is always so worthwhile seeing the end-product and the development of a team member.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

I am very proud of my progression in Cairn, especially as it in a predominantly male environment. I am proud to be part of a team that is now mostly female. It can be challenging; however, I find it is what you make it, often if your approach is right, it doesn’t make a difference who you are. I love seeing the women on the health and safety team (or any construction team) progress and ‘get a seat at the table’. It breaks down walls (pardon the pun!) and encourages other ladies to advance in this industry. There’s change coming and it is female led!!

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I feel excited when I see female graduates and TY students attend site to get an understanding of the industry. I feel like even when I was at school (not that long ago!) this was not even a consideration never mind an option. The fact that Cairn is attending job fairs, and hosting career talks and the enthusiasm from female students is just fantastic. I now see females in the industry as a norm as opposed to something unheard of, which is a huge shift. I see women shaping the future of the construction industry and this is only the beginning.

Short Bio

As a Head of Wellbeing at Dornan, I have been committed to fostering a culture of support and awareness in the construction industry since 2019. My role involves leading mental health initiatives, promoting employee wellbeing, and driving conversations that make construction a safer and more inclusive environment for all.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is the opportunity to create real change—not just in physical structures but in the way we support the people who build them. Every day, I am motivated by the impact wellbeing initiatives have on employees, whether it’s helping someone navigate workplace challenges, reducing stigma around mental health, or creating a culture where people feel valued and supported.

How did you get involved in construction?

My journey into construction wasn’t traditional, but it was driven by a passion for people and wellbeing. With a background in sociology and organisational psychology, I saw the opportunity to bridge the gap between employee health and the demands of a high-pressure industry. Dornan gave me the platform to integrate wellbeing programs, training, and mental health support into the construction environment, ensuring that our people not only perform well but thrive.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One of my proudest moments was developing the Wellbeing Network at Dornan. It’s been incredible to see employees step forward, train as mental health first aiders, and actively support their colleagues. It’s a testament to how much we’ve shifted the conversation around mental health in construction, making it a topic that is not only acknowledged but prioritised.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring a strong sense of empathy, collaboration, and problem-solving to construction. In my role, I’ve seen how listening, fostering open discussions, and taking a proactive approach to wellbeing can transform workplace culture. Women also contribute diverse perspectives and leadership styles, which help create a more inclusive and psychologically safe environment.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

There’s been significant progress in the industry, especially in recognising the importance of diversity and mental health. Companies like Dornan are actively supporting wellbeing programs, mentorship initiatives, and training that encourages a more inclusive culture. While there is still work to do, the shift towards valuing diverse voices and promoting supportive leadership is encouraging.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction is not just about buildings and infrastructure—it’s about the people behind them. As the industry evolves, wellbeing, diversity, and mental health will play an even bigger role, and I’m excited to see more women driving these changes. By breaking barriers, leading initiatives, and fostering inclusive workplaces, women will continue to shape an industry that is not only productive but also sustainable and supportive for everyone.

Short Bio

As a Health and Safety Advisor, I’ve progressed from an administrative role, gaining hands-on experience and a solid understanding of safety regulations and risk management. My journey has allowed me to develop a proactive approach to creating safer work environments. I’ve had the opportunity to travel for work, including living in Denmark, which broadened my perspective on international safety practices. Outside of work, I’m passionate about travel and exploring new cultures.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

Besides being dirty everyday (Joke), not every day is the same day which I love. Every day I find myself learning as I go, what keeps me motivated when working in construction is when I get something over the line but I have help from my fellow colleagues like supervision. When we work as a team it keeps me positive just knowing you have the support from the management on site. In my job I can say every site I work on, all management are supportive and always willing to be open to suggestions. That is what I love most about construction, don’t get me wrong you have bad days, not every day can be smooth sailing, but knowing I may have thought someone something valuable that day makes me happy – this is why I love working in construction.

How did you get involved in construction?

I actually followed my father’s footsteps. He gave me a chance working as part of his team as a health and safety admin. When I started I felt myself gravitating towards the role as an advisor and my father would take me on site and show me the role of an advisor and from there I wanted to progress my career. He pushed me to go back to college and I am very thankful to my father.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

I think the one that comes to mind for me was a situation on site about four years ago now, I remember it well. I was still working as an admin with small site duties, one of our workers took ill on the construction floor. I received a phone call and made my way down quickly, this woman on site was having chest pains and was not well. I took one look and I made the decision as a first aider on site to call an ambulance. This woman was feeling like she was going to pass out, I kept her alert and called for a defib just in case anything happened. The ambulance arrived after a few minutes and she was taken to hospital straight away. That was a proud moment for me seeing all staff jump in to assist me with anything I needed. This woman made a full recovery and was back to work a few weeks later.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills to the construction industry. They excel at multitasking, attention to detail, and problem-solving, often offering fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. Their empathetic leadership fosters inclusivity, and their focus on sustainability helps drive eco-friendly practices. Overall, their diverse strengths enhance teamwork, safety, and efficiency in construction projects.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Yes I have, when I started in construction there were women but mainly in an office setting. When being on site you would not see many women. As the years have gone on through my career, I am seeing more and more women come into this industry and into roles based on site which I really like to see. It also feels nice to bump into another female on site just in case they need to speak to someone and may not feel comfortable speaking to their supervisor.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I look forward to seeing a lot more women as supervisors. Where I am working now we have some women apprentices who have huge potential to be a part of senior management and that is what I love to see: women breaking through to positions like that. The company I work for now have a great progression rate and love to encourage staff members to progress. I hope to see one of the women apprentices which work for my company today work their way up and maybe even being a project manager on a site.

Short bio

Olivia Brennan is the Sustainability and Quality Manager at Bennett Construction, guiding the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies and ensuring the successful delivery of projects to the highest standards.

With nearly a decade of experience in the construction and resource management industries, Olivia has built a reputation for fostering a culture of quality, safety, and sustainability. Her expertise includes delivering award-winning initiatives, advancing ESG frameworks, and delivering impactful EHS awareness campaigns.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is the variety – no two days are the same. Every project presents unique challenges that spark my creativity and keep the work dynamic and engaging. I enjoy the balance of office and site work, and the chance to collaborate with a diverse team. The trust I’m given to approach tasks in my own way, combined with the sense of belonging in the team, keeps me motivated. There are also plenty of opportunities for growth and career development. Seeing the final product and the craftsmanship that goes into every build is exciting, especially when it involves elements of sustainable design. Watching an idea come to life and all the different trades coming together to create something that will stand the test of time is truly inspiring.

How did you get involved in construction?

There wasn’t a specific plan that led me to construction. I was looking for a new challenge after spending several years in a different sector. The more I looked into the industry, the more I was drawn to its dynamic nature, team environment and the satisfaction of seeing tangible results from the work. I also liked the opportunity to travel and visit new sites, rather than being indoors all day. Once I realised the industry offered the flexibility, security, and growth opportunities I wanted, I saw it as a great fit for me and decided to take the leap!

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

The first time our team’s work directly contributed to winning an industry award was an especially proud moment for me. It was incredibly fulfilling to see all our collective efforts recognised on such a large scale. Bringing the award back from the ceremony to the office together was an experience to remember. It wasn’t just a reflection of individual accomplishments, but of the dedication and collaboration of everyone involved. That moment was a huge motivator for me, reminding me how rewarding it is to contribute to something bigger than myself and to work alongside such a talented and driven team.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Where do I start? Women bring a unique perspective and balance to the construction industry, one that can’t be underestimated. Their holistic approach and diverse experiences enhance the workplace culture and foster collaboration.

Not only this but women in construction often challenge the status quo, pushing for changes in behaviour and working conditions. They bring a fresh perspective and often advocate for improvements that lead to more empathetic and better working environments.

It shouldn’t be overlooked that many women in construction successfully balance family and career, offering a unique understanding of the need for flexibility, work-life balance, and effective time management. I believe women have an innate ability to keeping things on track while ensuring quality work, ultimately leading to better results.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

I’m happy to say I have seen change in the industry, but this change takes time and there is still more to do! Construction is no longer seen as just a job for the boys through education and growing opportunities for women. I attended sites in the past where there was scarcely even a women’s toilet! I would attend committee meetings and be the only woman in the room. It was daunting, but I was determined to prove that I belonged. It’s a stark contrast to today, where the working environment is improving and becoming more supportive of women.

I’ve been fortunate to have only positive experiences in my career, meeting great people and mentors who encouraged me and helped me step up. Policies around women’s issues, the gender pay gap, women’s PPE and DE&I are just a few of the important changes that are helping to create a more inclusive environment. These are all steps in the right direction, but we must keep pushing for more. Today, I’m proud to be part of an industry that continues to grow more diverse and inclusive.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction is exciting, especially as more women step into the industry, driving innovation and paving the way for the next generation. Women in construction are not just entering the workforce but are actively shaping the industry through mentorship and support. New initiatives are highlighting women as changemakers, and this focus is making the field more appealing than ever before. From women apprentices to tower crane operators and site managers, it’s inspiring to read stories of women stepping into positions once dominated by men.

Sustainability is another exciting area that will shape the future of construction. I’m passionate about how projects focused on sustainable design, including the use of renewables and reuse, will positively impact the industry and the world at large.

While attracting women to the industry is a priority, I feel retaining them is equally as important. I’m particularly excited about the future of leadership roles for women in construction and the potential for more women to take on senior positions. This will further drive change and inspire future generations of women to step up and lead.

Short Bio

HR and general administration role. Primary responsibilities include:

• Collection and verification of weekly hour returns and issue of weekly wage payments
• Management of holiday allocations and record of entitlements
• General office administration
• Maintenance of IMS requirements e.g. asset/ calibration register, vehicle register, ga2 defects maintenance, etc
• Managing closure of NCRs
• General HSQE support as required
• IT support

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

Whilst I cannot answer for Sharon, I can only give my opinion.

Sharon has been with McGinty & O’Shea Ltd for nearly 3 years now. It is her second time being in the construction sector and previously was with a steel company fabrication. She was so proud to tell the crews and staff that she knew all about steel, dimensions, good suppliers, fabricators, etc. She could rhyme off the dimensions and lengths of stock steel. You could tell how she enjoyed her previous job and looking forward to the new challenge of learning all about civils works and the engineering language. We knew that she’d be willing and able. So I think that is her motivation to be exceptional in her knowledge and help the crews and may spot if anything was a deviation.

To this day, 3 years on, she remains a consistent and even more efficient in her role. I call her the Oracle – she is the centre command and liaising role between all departments.

How did you get involved in construction?

It is her second time being in the construction sector and previously she was with a steel company. A role was advertised, and she fitted the administrative role with added new challenges, so applied for the construction admin role.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

There was a failure to adhere to company procedures for procurement and approval process of materials so that to ensure the correct materials are bought and placed. Whilst no order was made for the ESB dust with supplier Roadstone, the protocols were not adhered to (material approved).

The PO administrator Sharon O’Flynn flagged its deviation at time of issuing the PO and prevented the error. The PO administrator directed the driver to get approved sand from Finbarr O’Neills as the driver was going to go to Roadstone. Now this was caught by Sharon, even though it was the responsibility of the Project Manager to give clear instructions. She can help prevent huge mistakes by supporting the master protocols.

Sharon was praised by her Project Manager, Contracts Manger and HSQE Manager for catching this error and helped prevent time, money and delays in the project.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

• To take constructive criticism well.
• Listen to the experience of others.
• Sharpness on checking data whether information/site requirements or payment certs.
• Being helpful.
• Efficient.
• Sharing some laughs along the way.
• Being neutral, not taking sides or making judgements when the times of the staff are poor.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

When Sharon meets new people or her family members and in particular when she meets her people in construction trade out of hours, she is delighted that she understands the terms, the culture, the way of doing things in construction. May be other women would enjoy this aspect too.

Yes, women certainly take on any role in the construction sector, but to get there, there needs to be a lot of listening to advice, collaborations, good communication, being strong, assertive – but yes they can.  And I know Sharon will work as as good with women in this role.

Short Bio

As HR Manager at MMD Construction, my focus is on creating a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. With over a decade of experience in human resources, I am passionate about fostering a positive work environment, championing diversity, and supporting career growth. At MMD, I work closely with leadership and staff to ensure we maintain an inclusive and dynamic workplace where people thrive, and the company continues to grow.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

What I love most about working in construction is seeing the tangible results of our collective efforts—projects that shape communities and improve lives. The fast-paced and ever-evolving nature of the industry keeps things exciting, and I’m constantly motivated by the opportunity to support and develop our incredible team at MMD. Watching employees grow, progress in their careers, and contribute to something meaningful is incredibly fulfilling.

I love that I get to be part of fostering a positive and inclusive workplace. At MMD, we have recently received our accreditation for the Investor in Diversity Bronze Level, launched our first Employee Survey, and are committed to working together to bring greater diversity to the industry. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with our incredible team to create an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and supported.

How did you get involved in construction?

My journey into construction wasn’t planned, but it turned out to be the perfect fit. I started my career in HR in another sector but was drawn to construction because of its diversity and the opportunities it offers. When I joined MMD, I quickly realized how much I enjoyed working in such a dynamic and team-driven industry. The collaborative nature of construction immediately resonated with me, and I haven’t looked back since.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Since joining MMD Construction Cork, I have experienced many rewarding moments in my career. One that stands out beyond my day-to-day role was leading MMD’s support for the Kinsale Lions Club Annual Toy Appeal. Witnessing our employees come together to make a real difference for children and families in need was incredibly fulfilling. From organising donations during our Christmas Jumper Days to delivering toys to Cork University Hospital and local schools, the generosity and enthusiasm of the team were truly inspiring.

I was incredibly proud of all our employees for coming together, and the overwhelming support we received made the initiative even more special. What made it even more meaningful was knowing that Santa landed at the CUH helipad—one that MMD had the privilege of building—to deliver the toys. Seeing that direct connection between our work and the joy it brought to the children reinforced the incredible power of teamwork, generosity, and community spirit. It was a privilege to be part of something so impactful and to witness firsthand how small acts of kindness can make a lasting difference.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring a range of valuable strengths to the construction industry, including strong communication, organisation, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. Their ability to foster collaboration, pay attention to detail, and approach challenges with creativity helps create more dynamic and efficient teams. The increasing presence of women in construction is bringing fresh perspectives and contributing to a more inclusive and well-rounded workforce.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction is exciting, particularly with advancements in technology and a growing focus on sustainability. Women are playing an increasingly vital role in shaping the industry, stepping into leadership positions and driving innovation. As more women pursue careers in engineering, project management, and site operations, they are breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation. I believe this shift will continue to make the industry more diverse, inclusive, and forward-thinking.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

Every day is a new day in HR and especially in construction with its ever-changing challenges. We are lucky to have a very professional workforce at WBL and a very high standard of work ethic.

How did you get involved in construction?

My HR background in Mechanical/IT Engineering, and Motor Industry. I stumbled across WBL 10 years ago and the rest is history!

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

In the past 10 years we have seen the company grow and the workforce treble. This is especially rewarding for me. As HR manager at Wills Bros, there is an immense sense of pride when highly skilled individuals are selected and join a project. This pride stems from knowing that our meticulous recruitment process has successfully identified candidates who not only possess exceptional technical abilities but also align with Wills Bros’ values and culture.

When these talented professionals become part of our team, their impact is often immediate and profound. They bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a wealth of experience that can elevate the entire team’s performance. Their contributions often lead to measurable improvements in project outcomes, whether through increased efficiency, higher quality deliverables, or enhanced team collaboration. The added value they bring is not just limited to their technical skills. Their ability to communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and adapt to changing circumstances can significantly enhance team dynamics. This, in turn, leads to a more cohesive and motivated team, capable of achieving greater success together.

Ultimately, the pride of being the HR manager at WBL lies in witnessing the tangible benefits that these highly skilled individuals bring to their projects and the company. Their positive influence and measurable contributions validate the efforts invested in the recruitment process and reinforce the importance of attracting and retaining top talent.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women I believe bring strengths to all industry, but it is wonderful to see the growth in the construction sector which confirms there is a job for all.

Moreover, there has been a growing recognition of the unique perspectives and skills that women bring to the table. Wills Bros have benefited from the diverse viewpoints and innovative solutions that women contribute, leading to more dynamic and effective teams. This acknowledgment of women’s value has been a driving force behind the industry’s progress towards greater gender equality.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

As the HR manager at Wills Bros, I have had the privilege of witnessing significant changes in the construction industry over the past decade, making it more inclusive and supportive of women. This transformation has been both inspiring and encouraging, reflecting a broader commitment to diversity and equality.

Notable evidence of this industry change is the increasing number of women entering and excelling in traditionally male-dominated roles such as Engineers, Quantity Surveyors, Safety Officers and even Heavy Plant Operators. This shift is a testament to the industry’s evolving mindset and the concerted efforts to break down barriers and create opportunities for women. At Wills Bros, we have actively embraced and supported this change by implementing policies and practices that promote gender diversity and inclusion.

Personally, throughout my career, I have always felt supported by my managers and my male colleagues, who have been instrumental in fostering an inclusive work environment. Their encouragement and respect have been invaluable, and it is heartening to see this supportive culture becoming more widespread across the industry.

As a woman at Wills Bros, I am proud to be part of a company that champions diversity and inclusion. The positive changes I have witnessed over the past decade give me confidence that the construction industry will continue to evolve, providing even more opportunities for women to succeed and make a meaningful impact.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

It excites me to see that women are valued in this industry, their opinions on design and build and the mixed professional views from both sides are no doubt going to prove successful.

Sustainable Construction: Within Wills Bros there is a momentum towards eco-friendly construction methods, such as green initiatives and sustainable materials. Women are at the forefront of these initiatives, driving company change towards a more sustainable future.

Digital Transformation: Technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM), drones, and 3D printing are revolutionising the way we design and construct buildings. In Wills Bros, women in tech roles are leading these advancements, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I always had a keen interest in construction work in general from a very young age, listening to stories from my grandfather who in his younger years worked at building the roads around Donegal. When we would drive down the country roads he would say I made this road and he was so proud of his achievements and I wanted to be the same. I started in 2018 on the N56 in Mountcharles and every time I drive on the section of road, I think I helped build this road that will be here long after I go. It inspires me to keep working in construction to see what else that I can be apart of that will stand the tests of time for many years to come.

How did you get involved in construction?

When I finished school I took a year out to save for college. That year turned into 13 years and I had reached a point in my life the industry I was in was not dependable or hospitable. I left knowing that I wanted to go to college but was torn between IT and Engineering. I had an aptitude for both but my heart was engineering but age was now against me. For the three years of the ordinary degree in Civil Engineering in Letterkenny IT, I achieved the highest exam results in each year and won an award for best Environmental Project in my final year.

I continued on and got my honors degree then in Fire Safety. After a personal tragedy I finished my final exams and got the hons degree but reached a point that I did not see a clear path ahead. I worked in the community for a few years until one day I saw an add in the local news looking for a site administrator for the N56 Mountcharles Project and that officially launched my career in construction and I have enjoyed 99% of my times in construction so far.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Over the past 6 years there has been one moment repeated three times that I have felt proud off, and that is when all the people on site get together and celebrate the end of a project. This is a moment that we can all sit back and relax for a short time and think this is a job well done, something to be proud of and we all made it safely to the end in one piece.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women no matter where they work have an ability to work long in the background, keep everything going and step in when needed – it is our maternal instinct to do so. I used to have a magic desk drawer, in there I kept may items that were there “just in case”: phone chargers, needle and thread, buttons and measuring tapes among many other things. I kept this drawer to help keep the small issues small.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

When I went back to college as a mature student, in my year there were 7 women starting out in first year of a class of 40, and by final year 5 women made to the end and only 12 of the men finished the degree course. Women are dedicated and will go the extra mile; if an obstacle comes in their path then we find away around it. From college level, there are supports in place for mature students from academical assistance to on-campus childcare. Now from secondary school the world of engineering and construction has greatly increased with girls now able to take construction, technical drawing and other engineering-related topics.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

When I have looked back over the years and seen how much the construction industry in Ireland has progressed over the years by including women into construction, from general operatives to project managers and continuing to excel year by year. The construction industry is embracing the value women can bring to the industry and allowing women to achieve their highest possible ability. I am excited to see how much further we can go, the sky is the limits!

What do you love most about working in your industry, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love the opportunity to contribute to an industry that directly impacts public health and the environment. Working in water and wastewater treatment, I know that our work helps communities thrive by ensuring clean, accessible water. The biggest motivator for me is seeing the growth and development of people. I’m passionate about creating an environment where employees feel supported and valued, which fuels their engagement and success. I’m constantly inspired by the positive changes we can make within our company, knowing that every step forward contributes to both individual’s and our group of companies’ progress.

How did you get involved in the industry?

My journey into the water and wastewater treatment industry was a bit unconventional. I began my career in HR in the hospitality sector, where I developed a strong foundation in people management and employee relations. Over time, I transitioned into the engineering sector, where I found my passion for shaping workplace culture and developing HR strategies that align with business goals. As I grew in my career, I moved into the water and wastewater treatment industry, where I was able to leverage my HR expertise to ensure we attract, retain, and develop top talent for a critical and impactful sector.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

One of the most rewarding moments for me was leading a company-wide initiative to enhance employee well-being during a challenging period. We implemented a series of wellness programmes and leadership training to ensure that employees felt supported in both their professional and personal lives. Seeing the positive changes in employee engagement and retention rates reinforced the importance of investing in people. It was incredibly fulfilling to see the HR team come together, and to witness the resilience and growth of individuals as they navigated through adversity.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the industry?

Women bring a wealth of diverse perspectives, empathy and collaboration to the industry. In my experience, women in HR often excel at fostering strong, supportive relationships that help teams thrive. We tend to prioritise inclusivity and we advocate for policies and practices that allow everyone to succeed. Our ability to communicate openly and create nurturing environments makes us strong leaders, especially in times of change. The emotional intelligence that many women bring also helps address challenges in a way that supports the whole team, ensuring we achieve both business and human-centred goals.

How have you seen the industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

There has been a noticeable shift toward a more inclusive and diverse environment in the water and wastewater treatment industry. More companies are recognising the value of diverse perspectives and are making efforts to ensure equal opportunities for women at all levels. There is greater emphasis on mentorship, leadership development, and fostering a sense of belonging for women, particularly in roles traditionally dominated by men. I’ve seen increased commitment to gender equity, with more women moving into leadership positions and bringing fresh insights to the table. The positive momentum is encouraging and shows that the industry is becoming more supportive and progressive.

What excites you about the future of our industry, and how do you see women shaping it?

I’m really excited about the future of the water and wastewater treatment industry, especially as it continues to evolve with technological advancements and a deeper focus on sustainability. What truly excites me, though, is the increasing role women are playing in shaping this future. In our industry, women are not just thriving in traditional support roles but are driving change in areas like project management, innovation and leadership.

What’s particularly inspiring is the growing network of women supporting one another, whether through mentorship, peer groups, or shared initiatives. As women help elevate each other, it’s creating a ripple effect, allowing us to show the value we bring at every level—from operations and support services to strategic leadership. We’re not just part of the workforce; we’re shaping the culture, creating new opportunities and impacting real change.

Women’s perspectives are crucial as we tackle challenges like sustainability, technological advancement and workforce development. As we continue to support and empower one another, I believe women will play an even greater role in driving innovation and ensuring that the industry not only grows but thrives in a way that’s inclusive, sustainable and forward-thinking.

Short Bio

Working onsite in construction since 1999. Working primarily with cranes and lifting operations since 2005.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

Construction is a very rewarding industry.

Progression on projects is very apparent and inevitable, and it’s ultimately satisfying to know that you played a part in the progress and completion of a structure that will be around for a long time.

We all have shaped the landscape around this country.

It’s also very satisfying annoying my daughter by pointing out all the structures that “I built” as we drive by them!

How did you get involved in construction?

I decided to go into construction due to dissatisfaction with my chosen career path, my brother suggested I try construction.

Also, construction, in my opinion, is one of the very few industries where women will be paid the same money as men for the same job, however, we must be willing and able to carry out the same duties and tasks as the men in our sections.

It’s all about baby steps, we may not have had a specific goal when starting but as we progress we may take the left lane or the right path.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

I have worked with so many companies and contractors and I have a lot of my colleagues asking me about my job: do I enjoy it, is it difficult would I recommend it for their daughters?

I take great joy in the fact that these men see that I can do my job unhindered by bias, and actually supported by my colleagues and employers that it reassures them it’s not an industry for their girls to be afraid of, and that they can work alongside the men with no issues.

It definitely builds strength of character and with experience comes confidence and progression.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women can bring an air of softness and empathy to an otherwise testosterone-fuelled industry. They can be a calming presence.

We also have a need to prove ourselves equal in our ability to get the job done and just as well as our male counterparts, therefore working harder and being more productive in some circumstances.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

I have been blessed to have so many employers give me the chance to firstly prove myself, and secondly support me in progressing through my years in the industry.

It has been an exercise in trust each time for new employers, colleagues and managers, for me to move up, but with resolve, hard work and experience, it happens.

Construction has become a consideration for many young girls. Engineering, architecture, planning.

The trades, M&E, are now a big talking point in schools with young girls asking for work experience in these fields for their TY requirements.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

Construction is ever changing and exciting. It’s meeting new people every day. It’s working hard and seeing the fruits of your labour. It’s progressing through hard work. It is rewarding.

Short Bio

I grew up in a small village in County Sligo, with a love for the outdoors, hands-on work, and music. Watching videos on fine joinery sparked my interest in woodworking. In secondary school, I chose construction as a subject, overcoming challenges as the only girl in my class. For my Leaving Cert, I designed a bookshelf inspired by Irish music, which was kept as a school showpiece.

After sitting my Leaving Cert at 16, I studied Advanced Wood and Sustainable Building Technology (NFQ Level 7) and Construction Project Management (NFQ Level 8) at ATU Sligo, graduating in 2022. These programs gave me skills in sustainable construction, management, and innovative building techniques.

Post-graduation, I worked in a farming shop while applying for construction roles, despite lacking experience. Persistence paid off when I was hired as an Electrical Project Engineer, where I gained industry knowledge. Seeking new challenges, I transitioned into the modular construction sector, where I now work and enjoy every moment.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love working outdoors, being on site seeing how works are carried out, every job is different. There is such a high demand in the construction industry for a lot of things, but housing is huge. It’s a very rewarding line of work as results can be seen and motivates you to keep the push on to get the job handed over. At the end of the day, stepping back to see what I’ve helped build or achieve motivates me to push forward to the next project.

How did you get involved in construction?

I’ve always had an interest in construction and working with my hands. I studied woodwork/construction through secondary school, carried out practical projects throughout and knew this was a career path for me. Despite my family telling me I should go for the Guards, I made the choice for me and studied Advanced Wood and Sustainable Building Technology (NFQ Level 7) and progressed into Construction Project Management (NFQ Level 8) at ATU Sligo. Once I finished collage I went to work with an Mechanical and Electrical Company as an engineer and later moved into modular as I can see this being the future of construction.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

In my current role, I carry out project handovers for all jobs. There was one job that stood out for me. We carried out a school building in a particular part of the country and we were met with many hurdles, but we overcame them. One issue that we came across was getting the ESB connected complete; this left us not knowing when we would be able to hand over the project. We worked as a team and got it closed out and proceeded to push hard and we got the project handed over 17 days before course. This job was very rewarding and is a huge achievement to get a project handed over at the level of standard it was at, let alone getting it done 17 days before course. Me personally, this was a huge confidence boost and motivates me to keep pushing for more results like this going forward. Women in construction is a huge value when it comes to getting things done to a high standard.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

The ability to multitask! Women bring strengths such as attention to detail, problem-solving, adaptability and a role model. Women have strong communication skills in the construction industry. Effective communication is crucial for teamwork, safety, and project coordination. Women tend to be strong collaborators and problem-solvers. Women are more risk-averse, which can contribute to safer construction sites and improved compliance with regulations.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

The construction industry has made significant strides toward inclusivity and support for women through targeted recruitment efforts, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and improved workplace policies. Organizations are actively encouraging female participation through mentorship programs, scholarships, and leadership opportunities, while also implementing anti-harassment policies and better maternity benefits. Companies are working to create safer, more accommodating environments by providing properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE) and improved site facilities. The perception of women in construction is shifting as more female professionals take on leadership roles and contribute to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Pay equity and career advancement opportunities are also improving, helping to close the gender gap and attract a more diverse workforce. While challenges remain, the industry is becoming increasingly welcoming and equitable for women.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The future of construction is incredibly exciting, with advancements in technology, sustainability, and workforce diversity transforming the industry. Innovations such as modular construction, and green building practices are redefining how projects are designed and executed. Women are playing a vital role in this evolution by bringing fresh perspectives, strong leadership, and a focus on collaboration, safety, and efficiency. As more women step into leadership and technical roles, they are driving change in workplace culture, fostering inclusivity, and pushing for policies that support work-life balance and professional growth. Their increasing presence in fields like project management, engineering, and sustainability ensures that the industry continues to innovate while becoming more adaptable and forward-thinking. With continued support and opportunities, women will shape a more diverse, equitable, and resilient construction industry for future generations.

Short bio

I’m a hardworking woman who loves what I do in construction. I take pride in seeing a project come to life and knowing I played a part in it. I enjoy the hands-on work, problem-solving, and working with a great team. Construction isn’t just a job for me—it’s something I’m truly passionate about. Every day brings new challenges, but that’s what keeps it exciting. I’m proud to be part of this industry and to see more women stepping into the field.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love seeing something go from just an idea on paper to a real, solid structure. There’s something special about knowing you played a part in creating something that will last for years. Every day is different, and I enjoy the hands-on work, the problem-solving, and the teamwork. What keeps me motivated is the satisfaction of getting the job done right. Plus, seeing a project finished and knowing I helped make it happen—that’s a great feeling!

How did you get involved in construction?

I didn’t have a set plan to get into construction, but I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and seeing things come together. At first, I just took a chance on a job in the industry, and I fell in love with it. Over time, I learned more, worked hard, and kept pushing myself to grow. Now, I can’t imagine doing anything else!

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

There have been a lot of proud moments, but one that stands out is when I helped lead a team through a tough deadline. We were short on time, with a crane been removed from site, but we kept everyone focused, and we got it done. Seeing the final result and knowing we pulled together to make it happen made me so proud. Moments like that remind me why I love this work.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring a lot to the table—patience, attention to detail, strong communication, and a different way of problem-solving. We often think outside the box and bring a teamwork-driven approach that helps the whole crew work better together. Plus, I’ve noticed women tend to be really good at staying organized and keeping things on track, which is a big asset on a job site.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Things have definitely improved. There are more women in the industry now, and I see more companies making an effort to support and encourage us. There’s still a way to go, but I appreciate seeing more respect and opportunities for women in construction. The more of us that step into this field, the more the industry will continue to change for the better.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The industry is always evolving, with new technology and new ways of building. I think women are going to play a big role in that, whether it’s in leadership, innovation, or just bringing fresh ideas to the job site. More women are getting involved, and that’s exciting because it shows the industry is growing and becoming more open to everyone. The future looks bright, and I’m proud to part of it.

Short Bio

My career in construction started in 2013 as a translator and Contract Manager Assistant in the railway industry. Through the years I specialised in Procurement and Tendering for Eastern Europe and Implementation of FIDIC Contracts. Working all over the Europe in all aspects of construction, I’ve decided to use my knowledge and support teams on site.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

“The Only Constant in Life Is Change.”- Heraclitus.

And a change is a constant on a construction site. It’s never monotonous and the work is never routine. Everything changes from minute to minute and to be part of that change is what I want to be.

How did you get involved in construction?

I started as a translator and Contract Manager Assistant in one international company which specialized in the construction and renewal of railway and urban mobility infrastructures. From there I made my way through all the company departments, to find my place in one that most suits my personality: the construction site.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

It’s hard to choose the actual moment, but the most exciting moments were those when the BID you have been working on was awarded to your company.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

My personal opinion is that women are more detailed oriented, have more patience and diverse problem solving approaches.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

In the last couple of years, more and more woman are getting into the industry.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

Since I’ve been working, construction has progressed a lot, and it’s progressing every day. Women can make a big impact to this industry, they just need to be given the same chance as men.

Short Bio

I am Turkish, 36 years old, and working on-site since I graduated in June 2012. I was a site engineer on-site for 6 years, then partly on-site based in office since 2018 as a quantity surveyor. I’ve been working abroad since 2018. I moved to Ireland in January 2024, and I was in Malta for more than 5 years.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I chose being a civil engineer on purpose, so it is my profession. I am happy so far working on-site. Keeping me motivated, I believe in myself doing right and have enough confidence for my role.

How did you get involved in construction?

My dad was in construction labour and I was involved in construction during my childhood time. I knew, when I was a child, what cement was, what tile was, what concrete was, what a JCB was. I like maths and drawing so what I am doing – it seems I made a right decision.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

When I heard from my manager that I did a great job while being here in a short period.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I think it is more politeness and cleaning and respecting women and men in the same way. It is like the construction environment is fully man and it becomes normalises being on-site as a women.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

I hope people make the expression ‘women in construction’ not just for part of an advertisement for a company profile to look nice, I hope who invests in it that it comes from their heart supporting women.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

If people allow women and independent race, I would like to see myself with a higher qualification and as much as I can be a higher title in the system and company and Ireland.

Short Bio

I have been working as a Quantity Surveyor with Vision Contracting for the last 9 years. My projects are predominately in the pharmaceutical sector but have also worked on commercial, industrial, and hotels and fitout projects.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I love that every day is different and brings different challenges. It can be quite fast-paced which really pushes you to action and resolve problems quickly. It would keep you on your toes which I love, there is never a dull moment! I also love working as part of a team to bring an overall project together, it gives great satisfaction being a part of a project from beginning to end.

How did you get involved in Construction?

I went straight into studying Quantity Surveying from secondary school. I would have always had a keen interest in construction, and I loved maths in school, so it was a no-brainer to go in this direction. When I finished college, the country was heading into a recession, so I stepped away from the construction industry for a while but returned after a few years as I knew it was where I wanted to be.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impart on a project or team?

As a Quantity Surveyor you can get a bad rep, people can be weary of you, so I get great pleasure when I get to build a trusting relationship with our clients and subcontractors. Repeat business is so important in a small country like Ireland so these relationships are invaluable.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I think as women we can have a different approach to things, which I believe leads to better decision making and problem solving. Our ability to multitask and strong organisational skills make us great team leaders and I believe we have a greater compassion for people which can only make better a sometimes tough industry to work in.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of woman?

I have been very lucky to come across very little gender-based inequality in my workplace; I think that says a lot about the company I work for. I have always felt supported and in recent years I have been given flexibility since having a baby, which as a woman is something that I would have previously worried about affecting my career. Certainly, in recent years you can see a definite improvement on facilities for women on sites which is brilliant.

Short Bio

I graduated with honours in Civil Engineering (BEng) from Brazil and moved to Ireland to pursue a career in the construction industry, motivated by the recession in my home country.

Civil Engineering is a versatile degree in Brazil, which provided me with the skills to work in a variety of roles within the Irish Construction Industry.

With my background in producing architectural, engineering, and M&E drawings, combined with hands-on on-site experience, I started my career with Duggan Brothers as a Site Engineer in 2022. Over the past two years, I have had the opportunity to work on three different sites, where my duties included reviewing plans and drawings, setting out structural elements, communicating information to the team, overseeing subcontractor work, and ensuring that quality standards were consistently met.

Thanks to the support of Duggan Brothers and the versatility of my Civil Engineering degree from Brazil, which covered the essential areas for my new role, I was given the opportunity to transition into Quantity Surveying. I am now focused on expanding my skill set and embracing new challenges in this field.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I like the idea of being able to see the progress of my work. A plot of land turning into a building and all aspects involved in this. Being able to follow its diverse stages, its progress and different procedures that can be implemented for various scenarios. More important than that, I am passionate about knowing that every time I pass by a completed site, I can reflect on the essential role I played in bringing the project to life.

How did you get involved in construction?

My parents’ business was interlinked with construction and my older sister, who is also an engineer, has always been someone I look up to. While my family’s influence played a role, my preference for exact sciences over other fields was evident even during my school years.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Being a traditionally male-dominated sector, women often have to work harder to demonstrate their capabilities and earn the respect of the site team, particularly in hands-on roles. However, our attention to detail, critical thinking, and focused approach enables us to excel and stand out by delivering highly efficient and precise work.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Physiological differences between genders are one reason women have traditionally been underrepresented on construction sites. However, as the construction sector evolves, new technologies are emerging, and work processes are shifting towards automated methods and enhanced safety measures. This advancement is transforming the industry, where professional qualifications now take precedence over physical strength, creating more opportunities for women to take on operational roles.

In all areas of the construction industry, it has been crucial to foster a shift in mindset among those in leadership positions. Companies are actively modernising corporate culture and promoting workplace education to prevent discrimination and embrace new ideas and opportunities. This progress is paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative construction sector.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

I absolutely love the energy and creativity of construction! There’s something magical about taking an idea and turning it into a real, functional space where people will live, work, or gather. What keeps me motivated is the collaborative nature of this industry. Working alongside talented professionals, each contributing their expertise, reminds me that no two days are ever the same and there’s always an opportunity to learn.

How did you get involved in construction?

My career path wasn’t linear. Growing up on a farm in Brazil, I learned early on how to face challenges head-on and think resourcefully. When I moved to Ireland, I was eager to try something completely new. Construction captured my interest because it’s hands-on, dynamic, and filled with opportunities to make a difference. The role of Assistant Quantity Surveyor appealed to me because it combined analytical skills with practical applications, allowing me to have a direct impact on projects.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

It’s hard to pinpoint one specific moment, but I feel a sense of pride every time I contribute to a project that comes together successfully. Whether it’s finding solutions to unexpected challenges or collaborating with a great team, I’m always happy knowing that my efforts play a part in making the project a reality.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women bring a unique perspective to construction, especially in terms of communication and collaboration. We often excel at fostering strong, cohesive teams, which is vital in a field where coordination between diverse stakeholders is key. Additionally, women tend to approach challenges with creativity and adaptability, which can lead to innovative solutions that might not have been considered otherwise. And let’s face it—having diverse voices always makes a team stronger.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

There has definitely been progress in recent years, more companies are actively promoting diversity and implementing policies to create an inclusive environment.  That said, I still think representation needs to improve, especially in site-based roles. But the conversations about diversity and inclusion feel more genuine, and I feel hopeful that the future will be even better.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

The growing emphasis on sustainability and technology in construction excites me. From green building practices to automation, the industry is at a pivotal moment of transformation. Women are not only participating in this change but leading it. Bringing fresh ideas and setting new standards for collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. I’m particularly optimistic about seeing more women in leadership positions, shaping not only the projects but also the culture of the industry itself.

Short Bio

As a Professional Quantity Surveyor with 16 years of experience across South Africa and Ireland, I have worked on a wide range of projects, including mining, residential, industrial and pharmaceutical developments.

I started my career in South Africa, working on major mining and infrastructure projects, including the Sasol Nitro Granulation Plant, De Beers Venetia Underground Mine and Palabora Copper Lift II Growth Project. These large-scale, high-pressure environments taught me invaluable skills in managing complex contracts, budgets and working with multi-disciplinary and diverse teams. I was also selected for the Aurecon ‘Foundation of Leadership’ program, which shaped my approach to teamwork and problem solving.

In 2019, my husband and I moved to Ireland, embracing the challenge of adapting to a new culture and construction industry. It felt like starting from scratch, new terminology, new construction and commercial methods, and understanding the culture to build new relationships, but I was determined to make it work. I had to hit the ground running with my first residential and industrial projects, adapting quickly while working with my team to introduce new templates and procedures to ensure we are as productive and efficient as possible.

I firmly believe that success in construction comes from strong teamwork, clear communication and a solutions driven approach. In our commercial team, we focus on guiding and supporting each other, constantly improving our processes, and tackling challenges together rather than pointing fingers. Every project presents new opportunities to learn, grow, and build something lasting.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

There’s never a dull moment in this industry as no two days are the same and there’s always a new challenge to take on. I’m passionate about my work and take pride in delivering high-quality results while building strong relationships with my colleagues, clients, consultants and subcontractors. I stay motivated by my commitment to always do my best, keep learning, working as part of a team and earning respect through the quality of my work.

How did you get involved in construction?

To be honest, I never envisioned a career in the construction industry as I didn’t really have any knowledge of it and none of my close family were in the industry. Early on in my final years of high school, my parents arranged for me to take career aptitude tests to help guide my path after school. When my results pointed me toward quantity surveying, I was completely shocked.

My mother tongue is Afrikaans and it translates to “Bourekenaar” and believe me when I say it is not an exhilarating word. All I could imagine were hard hats and construction sites; whereas I had envisioned myself in the attractive world of business and accounting, in a sleek high rise office and a suit.

However, when we attended an open day at the university, I met lecturers who passionately emphasised how much the industry needed women. That was however 20 years ago and there has been an influx of women in the universities and industry, which is great to see how times have changed.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

There are definitely a few moments, and reflecting on them now, I realise we don’t always take the time to truly appreciate them before they become distant memories.

One that always stands out is when we completed our work as consultants on the De Beers Venetia Underground Mine. I spent two intense years working under the direct management of the De Beers mining development team, an experience that was both challenging and defining in my career. It was a high-pressure environment where I constantly had to push myself, learning through both successes and setbacks. There were moments I felt like I was failing, but I kept picking myself up and pushing forward.

When I said my goodbyes, the De Beers Mining Manager took a moment to acknowledge the impact and value I had brought to the team. It was uncharacteristic of him, and I had no idea during those two years how much my work was valued. For the first time I felt truly recognised for my contribution and he even called me a “diamond”, a moment that has stayed with me ever since.

Another great moment will always be moving to Ireland and starting my journey with David Flynn Limited.

Although it was overwhelming at times, I embraced the challenge with full commitment. I quickly immersed myself in learning about the residential and industrial sectors while identifying ways to improve efficiency, reporting and procedures within our commercial team. My efforts were recognised when I was promoted to Managing Quantity Surveyor within a year, allowing me to take on a leadership role in supporting our Commercial Manager and team and overseeing cost management on all live projects. This experience reinforced my belief that with resilience, adaptability, and a proactive mindset, any challenge can be turned into an opportunity for growth and success.

I’m truly grateful for all the men and women I’ve had the privilege to work with, both past and present. Everyone leaves a footprint in someone else’s life and sometimes it is only years that you realise the positive impact people have made as you overcome challenges and influence others.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women in the construction industry bring a niche to the industry that is hard to explain in words without it coming across in the wrong way. However, those who recognise and value these strengths and are able to look beyond gender and respect the quality and capability of a colleague/employee for what they bring to the table is a recipe for success.

Success in construction isn’t about gender, but about your unique skillset, whether it’s attention to detail, strong communication, strategic thinking, or the ability to foster teamwork. When these strengths are acknowledged and embraced, they create a more balanced, innovative, and high-performing industry for everyone.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Over the years, it has become the norm for women to be part of the construction industry, and I’ve been fortunate not to encounter resistance to this.

Twenty years ago, when I decided to study quantity surveying, I knew it was a male-dominated industry, so I was never one to think about it as I made the decision to enter the industry knowing the facts. With this decision I had the right mind-set, developed a tough skin and a presence that I mean business and earned my seat at the table through my capability and not my gender.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

I believe men and women are collaboratively shaping the future of the construction industry. For me it is not about gender but about each and everyone’s capability, skills, respect, communication and teamwork.

For me, teamwork means that everyone, from management to apprentices, is in the same boat, rowing in the same direction to the beat of the drum, and that ensures success.

Short Bio

I have been working in the construction industry for the past seven years and I am currently a Quantity Surveyor specialising in commercial projects. I originally started my career in HR within a construction company before deciding to transition into quantity surveying. This led me to return to college to further my studies in the field.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

As a quantity surveyor, what I love most about working in construction is the fast-paced environment that keeps every day invigorating. The role requires me to adapt quickly to constantly changing work conditions, whether it’s managing budgets, assessing project costs, or collaborating with various stakeholders. Each project presents its own set of challenges, which means I’m always learning and growing. The high-pressure environment is something I thrive on as well. It pushes me to think critically and make swift, informed decisions, ensuring that projects stay on track financially. Knowing that my contributions directly affect the project’s success, and the overall outcome is incredibly motivating. Ultimately, being a quantity surveyor allows me to play a vital role in shaping-built environments, and that sense of purpose drives me every day.

How did you get involved in construction?

I got involved in the construction industry through a somewhat unconventional path. Initially, I wanted to pursue an apprenticeship in the construction field, but this was something discouraged in school. This led me to study business in college instead, where I gained valuable insights into the corporate side of various industries. After college, I joined a construction company working as part of the Human Resources Team, where I became fascinated by the industry.

Realizing my passion for the technical aspects of construction, I decided to return to college part-time to complete my master’s in surveying while working full-time as a trainee quantity surveyor. This journey not only allowed me to blend my interests in business and construction but also empowered me to break barriers and pursue a career that I’m truly passionate about.

Short Bio

I am an experienced Quantity Surveyor from South Africa, having completed my studies in Quantity Surveying there, with a strong background in the construction industry in both South Africa and Ireland. As a dedicated hockey player, I’ve competed at the highest level in South Africa and continue to play at the club level in Ireland. I also have a deep passion for sports, outdoor activities, traveling, and spending quality time with friends and family.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day? 

Everyday has a new challenge and opportunity, it keeps one on one’s toes and there is something exciting about not knowing what the day has in store.

How did you get involved in construction?

My father is a master electrician in South Africa and my grandfather and uncle were engineers, construction intrigued me from a young age.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

Finishing flushing ablution blocks for schools in South Africa that lacked these facilities had a profound impact on me.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

I believe we offer a unique perspective to the construction industry.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

There are countless opportunities for women in the construction industry, and it’s incredibly exciting. Women are set to bring a transformative influence to the construction industry in several ways:

1. Diverse Perspectives: With more women entering the industry, there will be a broader range of ideas, solutions, and approaches. This diversity can lead to more innovative and efficient ways of working.
2. Leadership Roles: As women take on leadership positions, they bring different management styles that focus on collaboration, inclusivity, and empathy, helping to create more supportive and dynamic work environments.
3. Promoting Work-Life Balance: Women often advocate for policies that support work-life balance, which can result in more flexible working conditions, potentially attracting more talent to the industry.
4. Sustainability: Women in construction are increasingly focusing on sustainability and green building practices. With a heightened awareness of environmental concerns, they are contributing to the creation of more sustainable and eco-friendly infrastructure.
5. Mentorship and Role Models: As more women succeed in the industry, they will serve as mentors and role models, inspiring the next generation of women to pursue careers in construction.
6. Changing the Culture: Women can help challenge and change the traditionally male-dominated culture of the industry, fostering greater inclusivity, reducing discrimination, and creating opportunities for all.

Short Bio

I graduated from TU Dublin with a bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying and construction economics in 2024. I have been working with John Paul Construction since 2022, starting as a placement Quantity Surveyor and I am currently an Assistant Quantity Surveyor working on a large and exciting project. I have had a particular interest in MEP and am trying to gain experience in as many aspects of Quantity Surveying role as possible.

How did you get involved in construction?

As I was growing up, I loved maths class and always wanted to pursue a career where I could use maths every day. I was searching for the perfect fit for me throughout secondary school. During Transition Year, my school did an International Women’s Day trip to a local factory to see a presentation on the women that work there. That is where I was introduced to the career of Quantity Surveying. I had never heard of it before, and it was particularly special that my first encounter with the sector came from a woman. Hearing her inspired me to research and pursue this career path.

From there I found the Quantity Surveying course in TU Dublin, which was my first choice on my CAO list. I found the course very challenging as I did not have the opportunity to do construction studies or engineering in my secondary school. I had great support from my family throughout the process of pursuing this career path, as my dad who has worked in the industry for many years would help me understand these concepts that were new to me.

In my third year of University, I received an award for academic excellence from John Paul Construction, which was the beginning of my career journey with them. I did my placement with John Paul Construction on a data centre which was very exciting, and I gained a lot of experience and knowledge working there. Once I completed my studies I moved to a new project, a large residential development which is very different to my previous project. I have gotten heavily involved in the Mechanical and Electrical aspects of this project. I have enjoyed working here and developing my skills.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

Although I have only been working in construction for a couple of years now, I have noticed many improvements and changes in the industry. From an increase of women taking part in the full-time and part-time quantity surveying course, to just a general increase of women on-site. I have found that it is a lot easier to find my confidence when there are more women in the office or on-site and I feel a lot more comfortable asking questions or voicing my opinions. I am excited to see how this industry will develop and I would encourage more women to choose this career path.

Short Bio

My career started out in the UK working for Main Contractors on framework projects within the Retail and Banking Sectors. I studied for a BSc in Quantity Surveying part time while working. A few years after completing my BSc, I returned to academia to complete a MSc in Construction Law and Dispute Resolution at Kings College, London. In 2023, I moved over to Ireland, where I now live, and work as a Senior Contract Surveyor for one of Ireland’s largest construction companies.

What do you love most about working in construction, and what keeps you motivated every day?

For me, the best bit about construction is the people. We have to work together to construct these incredible buildings that shape our living environment; it gives me such a buzz. I love hearing the analytical reasoning of people, especially when we are trying to find a solution to a problem together. It doesn’t mean I always agree with all their opinions, but it reminds me there is more than one way to be right, and because people carry such a variety of knowledge, I get to learn so much from the people around me.

How did you get involved in construction?

Growing up I never knew much about construction and the career opportunities within it. No one in my family was in the building trade, and while I loved my time at the all-girls school I attended, when I reflect back, I can see how much of the careers advice offered there was steered more towards perceived “gender appropriate” industries. In my early twenties, I was studying for a qualification in wine and spirits. To pay the bills while I studied, I took a role as a site admin for a construction company. I worked closely with the commercial department; collating documents for tender, drafting letters etc.

The take offs and measurement the Surveyors would create were all handwritten, and when one of our surveyors started to lose their sight I was asked to help draft some of the bills with them, so I could write out their dim pages and help do their calculations, giving me some first-hand experience of what Quantity Surveyors do. One of the other Senior Surveyors, Shaun, took me under his wing. He made time to take me to the small works sites our company worked on and showed me how to measure, how to use SMM7, negotiate and agree rates. The first project that I measured, priced, procured, and final accounted with him was to construct a stud wall in an existing building. It wasn’t a big project, but it is still my favourite, and the point where my passion for construction really started.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your impact on a project or team?

I am not sure I could choose an individual moment, but my greatest pride always comes from seeing the achievements and development of my team. I have a passion for education and mentoring, and for me, there is no greater feeling than seeing your mentees develop their skills to become competent, confident surveyors. Every trainee I have worked closely with has also taught me so much about construction as well; they ask questions that I sometimes can’t explain, so we search for the answer together, and some trainees challenge and question the basics; rather than just accepting ‘that’s the way we have always done it’, which brings a refreshing perspective and energy.

What unique strengths do you feel women bring to the construction industry?

Women often have different perspectives and life experience to their male peers. However, I do not consider that women bring ‘unique strengths’ because of their gender; unique strengths would be down to the individual. Yet, I believe when a diverse group of people work together, their different life experiences, perspectives and problem-solving approaches can create a synergy that sparks innovation. I feel this can easily be demonstrated when we look at the design of buildings; women occupy half the space, so their perspective is crucial in making buildings work for everyone’s needs.

How have you seen the construction industry change to become more inclusive and supportive of women?

I can’t begin to explain how much I personally have felt the change in the industry to become more supportive of women, how much more respected and included I feel now compared to when I was first entered construction. Most of the changes I have seen, seem to come from individual companies and the support of a few inspiring individuals within who demand and lead the change.

In my first role, when I was pushing the company for sponsorship to start my degree, I was rejected, more than once, because they didn’t think a women would “stick out” the course (even though it wasn’t right to reject me based on my gender, it still happened). Eventually I was accepted after I went over a few people’s heads to ask again. Fast forward 10 years, and I now work in an industry where there is so much encouragement for women to join. The senior leadership of the company I work for show great respect to all women in the business and actively push for more to join. It feels a far cry from the rejection I felt from the industry all those years ago. As an industry there is still a long way to go before reaching true equality, but we are on the right path.

What excites you about the future of construction, and how do you see women shaping the industry?

Currently women make up only 9% of the Irish Construction Industry despite accounting for nearly half of Ireland’s workforce. I hope we manage to encourage more women into the industry. We have a huge labour shortage but by creating an inclusive work environment where women feel welcome to join, valued and respected as equals, we could solve our resource problem.

I look forward to a day where gender isn’t a discussion point in our industry, and everyone is accepted as they are. I believe that with the support of both women and men in the Construction Industry we will get there.