Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITB NI), and the Women in Construction Network will host the 3rd Women in Construction Summit, on Wednesday 13 March 2024 at Crowne Plaza Hotel. With a focus on ‘Redefining Foundations’, the summit will honour women whilst exploring and challenging business foundations within the NI construction industry.
Research* reveals that women working in construction is on the increase with 37% of new entrants into the industry that came from higher education are women. Women make up around 14% of construction industry professionals and this number can only be set to rise with more and more women choosing construction jobs. Whilst this is encouraging, events such as Women in Construction Summit aim to inspire continued growth and development as well as challenge existing foundations to allow this to happen.
The full day conference will challenge the business foundations within the construction industry and will present inspirational stories, business advice and career development for women currently working in the construction industry, those thinking of joining and for employers who support diversity or best practice in the industry. Key topics include performance culture, growth mindset, sustainability, AI, mentoring and networking. The Summit will help attendees gain insights into career management, discover influential role models and seize the opportunity to expand professional networks.
Hosted by former BBC Journalist Sarah Travers, the summit will feature key note speaker and transitional change specialist Breda McCague. From startups to multinationals her twenty years in the Reserve Defence Forces supports to coach and inspire everyone to take control of their own career path. The Summit will also feature Jules Coleman, co-founder and CTO of resi.co.uk, the UK’s largest residential architecture practice.
Panelist and guest speakers include Oonagh O’Reilly and Marie-Claire McGreevy from MCO Performance, Nicky Scott, Women in Business NI Cathy Brennan, Resourceful Planner, As well as representative from a range of NI construction businesses and women focused organisations.
Looking forward to the Women in Construction Summit 2024, Rachel Dorovatas, from CITB NI, said:
“ We are looking forward to welcoming guests, speakers and panelist to our 3rd Women in Construction Summit. The theme of this year’s summit is Redefining Foundations which, throughout the day, will focus us to explore, discuss and challenge the current and future of our industry. The built environment is truly for everyone, and the more inclusive our industry becomes, the better equipped we are to cater to the diverse needs of our communities.”
Rachel further added:
“As our workforce ages, faces skill shortages, and rapidly incorporates modern technologies, it’s vital for the construction sector to build a culture that truly values diversity and balance. This culture not only enhances our ability to meet the challenges ahead but also fosters innovation and resilience in the face of an ever-evolving landscape.”