Encouraging women to join and thrive in the construction industry is crucial for promoting diversity and a more inclusive workforce. At Harvey Group, we recognise the significant benefits that diverse perspectives can bring to problem solving and the creation of a more dynamic, forward-thinking sector where everyone can contribute their unique skills and perspectives.

In celebration of Women in Construction Week and International Women’s Day, we caught up with our Mechanical Estimator Nicole and CAD / BIM Coordinator Susan to discuss their career paths and the advice they would offer to women wanting to enter the construction industry.

Can you tell us a little about your career journeys and how you both became part of the construction industry?

Nicole: I started off working as an Administrative Assistant when I left school at 17 years old for a local HVAC supplier. This introduced me to building services, which I honestly didn’t know existed. During my time there, I primarily learned about ventilation systems – fans, grilles and diffusers, air handling units, etc. – which really intrigued me.

I worked there for 5 years until the bad economic downturn in 2008 resulted in my redundancy. My first son was born in 2009, so I spent a few years being a stay-at-home mum, but I knew when the time came to look for employment, it needed to be in the building services industry.

In 2011, I applied for an Administrative Assistant role at Harvey Group. Luckily, I got the job and have worked here ever since. My career grew from strength to strength, progressing from Administrative Assistant to Commercial Coordinator, and then in 2018 I was promoted to Mechanical Estimator.

Susan: I studied architecture and after completing my master’s degree, I transitioned into the mechanical and electrical services sector. Using the skills and knowledge gained from my time in university, as well as mentoring from senior staff within Harvey Group, I was able to further develop my skills and knowledge to take on the role of CAD / BIM Coordinator.

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and how have you overcome them?

Nicole: The main challenge for me is balancing work and family commitments. This isn’t a challenge specific to women, although I know a lot more women tend to struggle with this compared to men. It’s extremely difficult working full time with the added pressures of the day-to-day running of a household and looking after your kids. But Harvey Group have been exceptional, providing me with the flexibility I need to navigate this.

Have you noticed any changes in the industry regarding gender diversity in recent years? If so, what positive shifts have you seen?

Susan: It has been encouraging to see the increase of women in a variety of roles throughout the construction industry, especially in roles that would have previously been male dominated. I have noticed a positive shift of other women involved as a core part of the design development or construction teams on the projects I have been part of.

What advice would you give to other women looking to enter this industry, especially those who may feel uncertain about pursuing careers in a traditionally male-dominated sector?

Nicole: If you're passionate about it, go for it! A great support network I’m part of is WiBSE (Women in Building Services Engineering), which helps more women join, stay, and progress within our industry.

Susan: I would encourage them to take the opportunity and not to be intimidated by the perceived traditional gender roles within the industry. Over the years, I worked with many women occupying what would have once been seen as a “man’s” role, and they are just as respected as their male counterparts. I do think women bring something different to the industry – a fresh perspective, and sometimes a different set of skills that would be an asset to any company or project.