A Cambridge programme is building a future for women in construction

A not-for-profit organisation has launched a partnership with Cambridge Regional College to support a programme aimed at getting more women into the construction industry.

Women into Construction (WiC) launched the programme in Cambridgeshire last October with industry partner Hill, the developer.

It offers advice and guidance, industry-related training and supported work placements, including paid travel and childcare expenses to women looking for a career change or a start in the industry.

It also assists contractors to recruit highly motivated, trained women, helping to reduce skills gaps and create a more gender-equal workforce.

Cambridge Regional College will host the programme’s information sessions and will be the lead training provider, working with the organisation to offer women free health and safety awareness training.

Leading the programme in Cambridge is WiC’s Shelley Lawrence, who said: “We are really happy that CRC have agreed to provide the construction related training needed for the women on our programme to obtain their CSCS cards. The training will be available two weeks after the initial information session, enabling us to support women more efficiently onto site for work placements.”

Fifteen women have registered for support into the industry since the programme was launched, with two successfully completing work placements with Hill.

Tom Hill, the regional director for the Cambridge Investment Partnership, said: “As a company we recognise the need and benefit of attracting more women into the industry. We are really proud to be working with WiC to achieve this and are pleased that the CRC will be supporting as training providers.”

CRC’s deputy principal Michelle Dowse, added: “This is an incredible opportunity to encourage more women into the construction industry at every level and we are delighted to be working in this collaborative partnership.”

The next information session will be held 10am-12pm at the college on Thursday, January 30. The two-hour session will give women the opportunity to receive details on training and work placement opportunities as well as hear from women working at Hill on their experiences in the industry, together with the chance to network with local employers and gain advice and guidance.

Advanced booking is required. Email Shelley.Lawrence@women-into-construction.org or visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/women-into-construction-information-session-tickets-85984852007.