Breaking Barriers: Women in Construction with Amy Turner
At the forefront of changing the face of the construction industry, Amy Turner, a school liaison officer and board member of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), is on a mission to encourage more women into the field. Amy's work is helping to dismiss outdated stereotypes by showing young women the broad range of careers available in this male-dominated industry.
The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is a nonprofit organisation that supports women in construction. At UK Construction Week, they showcased inspiring women shaping the sector's future. During a panel discussion, Amy and other experts shared their thoughts on key topics, including how the industry is evolving, with technology playing a central role in creating new opportunities.
"Gone are the days when construction was all about site work," Amy said. "Technology has transformed the field, and women are stepping into leadership roles, breaking down barriers and changing perceptions. It's not just bricklaying and electrical work anymore; many diverse career options exist, from architecture and engineering to design."
One of the critical challenges Amy is passionate about addressing is the retention of women in the industry. Currently, only 16% of the construction workforce is female; of those, only 1% work hands-on in trades.
"We need to get more girls interested in construction and ensure that when they enter the field, they stay," she explained. "Events like UK Construction Week are so important, as they open young minds to the possibilities."
Amy is also excited about the future of Kidderminster College's Green Technology Centre (GTC), where she hopes to host future NAWIC seminars and talks. The GTC offers cutting-edge facilities that provide an inclusive environment, with female tutors and the latest technological advancements that remove many physical barriers traditionally associated with construction work.
"The GTC will be a great space to help women succeed," Amy added. "With new technologies, there's no longer a need for heavy lifting or manual labour, making it more accessible for everyone."
Amy's drive to inspire the next generation of women in construction makes a real difference, and her work at NAWIC is paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse future in the industry.
If you're interested in a career in construction, or want to find out more about our Green Technology Centre visit https://www.kidderminster.ac.uk/facilities/construction-and-automotive-green-technology-centre/
