Women in construction
Name: Geri Best Grade: Member Location: Northeast Job title: Quantity Surveyor Company: Costain
Can you share your journey and experiences as a woman in the construction industry? What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
I was initially inspired to pursue a career in this field after speaking to one of my dad’s friends about his career as a quantity surveyor. He had travelled all over the world as a QS, working on a variety of construction projects and he spoke about his work with such enthusiasm. He also spoke about it being a well-paid profession and coming from a lower income family, this was an important factor for me when choosing my career.
In 2016, I applied to Northumbria University to study a built environment foundation course. After passing this, I enrolled onto the part-time quantity surveying course as a degree apprentice in 2017 and began my first role in the construction sector, with Gleeds.
I spent two years at Gleeds gaining invaluable insight into the construction industry and working with some great individuals on numerous large-scale projects in a variety of sectors for several clients. After that, I joined KOVE Properties, where I worked as a property viewing agent and junior project manager, alongside my final year of university.
I project managed numerous refurbishments for a variety of clients and this role really allowed me to develop my construction knowledge but also grow my personal and professional skills, which are just as important in this industry.
Once I had graduated in 2021, I was offered a job at Costain as a graduate QS. This was my first time working for a main contractor and my first time working in civil engineering, to say I was nervous would be an understatement. I began working on the A1 Birtley to Coal House scheme in September 2021 and I have loved it ever since.
I have been lucky enough to work with a team of very talented and experienced quantity surveyors (past and present) as well as a brilliant overall project team. I have taken every opportunity to learn from the challenges we have faced on this job and I have tried to absorb as much knowledge as possible from those around me. Overall, my experience as a woman in this industry has been everything that I hoped for and I have been lucky enough to work with some amazing people throughout my six years in industry.
What advice would you give to other women considering a career in construction? Are there specific skills or qualities you believe contribute to success in this field?
Confidence and communication are key. Both qualities in my opinion are very crucial in an industry where only 15% of the workers are made up of women. Don’t be afraid to speak up, make a point of introducing yourself, ask questions, take the lead on meetings, build your network and surround yourself with likeminded people.
How important is mentorship in the construction sector and have you had mentors who played a pivotal role in your professional development?
I believe that mentorship is a very important part of professional development. I have been working with the Costain Women’s Network to develop a role model’s database where colleagues are able to network with and support each other within the industry. I do not have a formal mentor; however, I have had lots of support throughout my time in industry.
One person to mention is my current line manager, Lisa Pearson, who has shared with me invaluable advice and knowledge throughout my time at Costain. Lisa has without doubt positively influenced my personal and professional growth, her shared experiences and guidance has been invaluable so early on in my career. Experiencing firsthand how having a mentor in the workplace positively impacted my career, drives me to offer my support and advice to those who are new to the industry.
What significant achievements or milestones have you reached in your construction career that you are particularly proud of?
Firstly, I would say achieving a first-class honours degree in quantity surveying was a huge milestone in my career. Lots of late nights and hard work went into my time at university, especially with my final year being completely remote due to COVID. Secondly, being promoted out of the graduate scheme to quantity surveyor (six months ahead of when I was supposed to.) This emphasised that those around were valuing my hard work and dedication to the job.
Lastly and more recently, after only two years working in civil engineering, I joined CICES. All the stress preparing my submission and interview preparation was worth it and it was a proud moment to see that I had been offered membership in August 2023.
How do you engage with your community or support initiatives to encourage more women to enter the construction field?
I am a keen member of the Costain Women’s Network steering group, where I work with like-minded people supporting women both inside and outside of the workplace. I also take every opportunity to participate in STEM activities such as school presentations and mentoring programmes.
In what ways do you think diversity, including gender diversity, contributes to the success and innovation within the construction industry?
I decided to do my dissertation on the barriers faced by women in technical/professional roles within the UK construction industry and one of my key findings was that having an inclusive workforce provides several benefits to any organisation. Numerous pieces of literature referred to the fact that by having more women within an organisation at all levels, it is beneficial for a company’s overall collaboration as women are more likely to work cooperatively than men. Collaboration is key within the construction industry and this will continue to grow with the more females that enter the industry.
When you’re not conquering the construction world, what’s your go-to activity for unwinding and letting loose?
I like to travel and see new places and I also spend a lot of my annual leave in Spain visiting my parents as they have now retired over there. I love R&B/Rap music and I take every opportunity to go to concerts, one of my recent favourites being seeing 50 Cent in Newcastle.
Women’s Network book of the month
Atomic Habits
James Clear
Paperback, Random House Business
£9.50, Amazon
320 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1847941831
This is a book that offers practical insights and strategies for building and sustaining positive habits. There are several key concepts from the book that can have a significant impact on readers. It introduces the concept of ‘atomic habits’, which are small, incremental changes that compound over time to produce remarkable results. The habit loop allows individuals to identify the triggers that prompt their habits, the cravings that drive them, the responses they take and the rewards they seek. The book talks about the effectiveness of habit stacking, which involves linking new habits to existing ones. By integrating new behaviours into established routines, individuals can leverage the power of consistency and make habit formation easier. The author suggests that the key to sustaining habits lies in adopting an identity-based approach. Instead of focusing solely on what habits one wants to achieve, individuals should focus on who they wish to become. By aligning habits with a desired identity, individuals are more likely to stay committed and achieve lasting change. Clear highlights the significance of marginal gains, often referred to as the 1% rule and emphasises the role of environment in shaping habits. The book introduces the idea of the plateau of latent potential, which represents the period of slow progress that often precedes significant breakthroughs.
Understanding this concept can help individuals persevere during challenging times and stay committed to their habits despite apparent lack of immediate results. I would recommend Atomic Habits by James Clear to a wide range of individuals seeking personal or professional growth, as the book offers practical insights and actionable strategies for habit formation and behaviour change. Overall, the book is a versatile resource that can benefit individuals from all walks of life who are committed to personal growth and striving for excellence. Its practical advice, backed by scientific research and real-world examples, makes it an invaluable tool for anyone looking to create lasting positive change in their habits and behaviour.
Genna Rourke FCInstCES
Women’s Networking session
March’s Women’s Networking session was an enlightening presentation where attendees were treated to a captivating discourse led by Ashley Redhead, head of commercial (major infrastructure) at Anglian Water Services. With a distinguished entrepreneurial journey that commenced at the tender age of 13, Ashley’s insights illuminated the realms of coaching, leadership, allyship and the pervasive challenge of imposter syndrome.
Ashley’s narrative transcended conventional business metrics. Delving into the nuances of leadership, he underscored the imperative of fostering environments conducive to high performance while continually striving for personal and collective advancement. Central to Ashley’s ethos is his fervent dedication to mentorship. Beyond the boardroom, he champions the cause of individuals striving to achieve their aspirations, employing tailored strategies for optimal growth.
The event resonated with a diverse audience comprising seasoned leaders and budding professionals alike. Ashley’s pragmatic counsel, infused with anecdotes from his illustrious career, offered actionable strategies for navigating the complexities of leadership roles.
As the session drew to a close, attendees departed armed with newfound perspectives on coaching, leadership, allyship, and strategies to combat imposter syndrome. In retrospect, the session stands as a testament to the enduring impact of visionary leadership and the indomitable spirit of mentorship championed by Ashley Redhead.