Liz Lynch, Buying Manager for Nottingham-based Barratt and David Wilson Homes explains what it’s like coming into a supposedly male dominated construction industry.
Beginning her hands-on career after she had finished university, Liz joined a contracting company which enabled her to gain the overview and understanding that she wanted to progress a career in the construction industry.
She was under the impression that it was a male dominated trade before she had even stepped foot in the industry.
Her perception then changed, however, due to the number of women that had entered the trade after her. When she first started her career in construction, she was the only woman in the company who wasn’t in an administrative role.
She said:
“I had always considered all areas of construction to be male dominated but this never affected my decision. I knew it was something I was genuinely interested in and there would be no reason why I couldn’t equally work within that environment.
“I have seen more women exploring different career opportunities within construction. Currently within our North Midlands division, the entire Buying team are female and women are employed in a variety of departments and roles.
“There are no labels. Positions are available and I strongly believe that Barratt and David Wilson Homes view all of the candidates as individuals and don’t conform to stereotypes.”
Encouraged by the number of females who are now joining the construction industry, Liz feels that it’s a positive step towards removing any misconceptions of these industries.
She attended a Careers Fair and saw first-hand how surprised children were when they heard of the many different opportunities including apprenticeships and graduate schemes.
Liz added:
“I believe that if this interest in housebuilding could be harnessed at a younger age, it may help dispel any myths about working in construction.
“Women are equally as capable at undertaking any career in construction as their male counterpart. Gone are the days of prejudiced views as these have been replaced by a more natural environment where no-one notices whether you are a male or female in your position.”
Chris Southgate, Managing Director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes North Midlands, said:
“We’re very thankful to have Liz in our team as she’s a great advocate for women in construction.
“As a leading housebuilder, we strive to remove the barrier of stereotypes and ensure there are equal opportunities for both men and women to progress in the trade.”
Further information about available career opportunities can be found at www.barrattcareers.co.uk.
For more information about Barratt and David Wilson Homes, visit www.barratthomes.co.uk and www.dwh.co.uk.