Why it matters: Friel's Women in Construction Anglia (WICA) initiative is working to address gender inequality in the traditionally male-dominated construction sector, creating pathways for the next generation of female professionals.
The awards ceremony, held on Friday, 7 March — the eve of International Women's Day — honoured women making significant contributions to STEM and construction industries.
Friel invited female construction students from West Suffolk College who have benefitted from her initiative, along with their tutor Averil Young, to join her for the evening.
What they're saying: "I am delighted to have received such a prestigious award," Friel said. "Sharing the stage with these amazing students was the icing on the cake. They are the inspiration behind everything we're doing."
"I've been working in the construction industry for more than a decade now and so much has changed for the better – but we know there is more to be done," she added. "This award shows us we're on the right track – and I'm excited for what's to come."
The bigger picture: Founded in late 2024, WICA has already engaged more than 300 guests at its events, ranging from students to industry experts. The ceremony was hosted by Dr Roni Savage, CEO and founder of Jomas Associates and the founder of the awards.
Tim Balcon, CEO of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), and Peaches Golding OBE, the Lord-Lieutenant of Bristol, were among the special guests at the event.
West Suffolk College tutor Ms Young said: "Taking my incredible female students to the House of Lords for the awards ceremony was more than just a trip – it's about showing them what's possible. Representation matters, and by stepping into these spaces, they'll see that their future in construction and engineering is limitless."
What's next: The next WICA event, the Student Takeover Lunch, will take place at West Suffolk College on Friday, 14 March.
The bottom line: As Dr Savage noted, the awards aim "to accelerate action and inspire the next generation" of women in the construction and STEM sectors.
