East of England women in construction invited to become industry champions
Women working in construction across the East of England are being invited to become role models for the next generation, with a new initiative offering the chance to speak in schools, support career changers, and help close the industry's gender gap.
Why it matters: Suffolk-based non-profit Women in Construction Anglia (WICA) says there is a "huge pool of female talent" waiting to be tapped, and that visible role models are key to unlocking opportunities for women in the sector.
The details: WICA has launched its first ever WICA Champions initiative, seeking women from across the eastern region to take part in a range of outreach activities, including speaking in schools and colleges and advising those looking to enter the industry.
Founded in 2024, WICA is an inclusive network designed to bridge the gap between industry and education. It also supports those already working in other sectors who wish to join construction, and works to improve staff retention rates for women already in the industry.
What they're saying: Clare Friel, founder of WICA, said: "We are so excited to start our search for our first WICA Champions. We've already seen the power role models have in transforming lives for young women looking to join our sector. The role they can play in inspiring others can't be understated.
"But we know more needs to be done to ensure every woman knows the incredible opportunities out there for them."
The bigger picture: WICA is backed by a host of industry partners, including Suffolk Chamber of Commerce and Anglia Ruskin University.
Amanda Ankin, Operations Director at Suffolk Chamber, said: "Having supported WICA since its inception, we've seen first-hand the impact of providing visible role models for people considering a career in construction. This campaign will further strengthen the work that's already been done and widen its impact further."
Harriet Hosking, Apprentice Account Executive at Anglia Ruskin, added: "We are seeing more young female students and apprentices coming through the university – and having more visible industry role models will only increase these numbers further."
The bottom line: WICA's new Champions initiative aims to build on the momentum already created by the network and give more women in construction the platform to inspire the next generation of talent.
This article cost us ~£14 to produce
It's free for you to read thanks to the generous support of our partners. Please support us by supporting them. Alternatively, you can directly fund more journalism like this by becoming a member for just £4.75 per month. You'll get our best content delivered straight to your inbox before anyone else, and the option to discuss our reporting with our journalists.
Below the line