Latest news with #womeninconstruction
Yahoo
21-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Construction pro flies high in aviation sector
This story was originally published on Construction Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Construction Dive newsletter. This article is one in a series of conversations with women leaders in the construction industry. Click here for past discussions. As a first-generation college student, Patricia Solorzano dreamed of becoming an architect. After a year studying architecture at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, Solorzano was introduced to the school's construction program, leading her to realize that she wanted a more hands-on role in the creation of buildings. She decided to make the switch to construction management where she was one of seven women in her 2006 graduating class. Since then, she has become an expert in the aviation industry and has worked on projects in premier airports across the country as well as mixed-use development and hospitality jobs. Here, Solorzano talks with Construction Dive about her passion for airport projects as well as the importance of mentors. This article has been edited for brevity and clarity. CONSTRUCTION DIVE: What do you do in your current job and where are you located? PATRICIA SOLORZANO: As a vice president and project executive at Suffolk in Dallas, I lead project teams and oversee our field operations. I also help build our client relationships and stay engaged in our upcoming project pursuits. Since joining Suffolk in 2023, my focus has been helping grow and manage our aviation portfolio. Most recently, I have overseen our third project at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, including the construction of the new Electric Central Utility Plant (eCUP), which will transition to zero-emission electricity for heating to become the first carbon-neutral central plant in the Americas. Next up, I have the opportunity to manage the construction of a large mixed-use project in the heart of Dallas that will include a below-grade garage and three high-rise towers. Aviation construction offers complexity and scale that continuously challenges me professionally. These projects have a wide impact on millions of travelers and require sophisticated coordination and technical expertise. Working on premier airports earlier in my career like Los Angeles International, San Diego International, Sacramento International and now Dallas Fort Worth International has allowed me to tackle large-scale infrastructure that transforms how people experience travel. Earlier in my career, I had the opportunity to contribute to major aviation projects like the LAX Bradley West International Terminal and the American Airlines Trinity Complex. These experiences helped shape my leadership and communication skills. Most recently, I'm especially proud to have been working on the DFW eCUP project because it represents a step forward in building sustainable aviation infrastructure. It's exciting to help deliver a project that not only serves immediate operational needs but also sets a new standard for how airports can meet the challenges of climate variability. Construction offers incredible opportunities to create tangible and lasting impact to communities. The industry provides both professional growth and personal satisfaction as you watch projects progress from concept to completion. Throughout my career, I've personally enjoyed the variety of working across different states and sectors, from hospitality to aviation. I've also valued fostering relationships with clients, trade partners and colleagues to create a supportive network to help us all succeed. Don't be intimidated by being in the minority and instead use it as motivation to excel. Build a strong technical foundation and continually seek opportunities that challenge you, even if it means relocating or stepping outside your comfort zone. Find mentors who believe in your potential, as I was fortunate to have supportive leaders who encouraged me to take on increasingly complex projects. Finally, as you advance, make time to mentor others, regardless of whether they're on your team or even at your company. At Suffolk, we have a saying that we don't build buildings, we build people. I believe that investing in and mentoring the next generation of women in construction can help shift the mentality of the industry so that women are seen as expert builders, not just successful women in construction. Recommended Reading Project engineer follows in her father's footsteps Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Zawya
13-06-2025
- General
- Zawya
Women Break Gender Barriers in Somalia's Construction Industry
Some women in Somalia have found work in its male-dominated construction industry, proving that skill, not gender, determines success. Women employees want to become mentors and role models in their communities, inspiring others to pursue nontraditional work and to believe in their own potential. World Bank support for an urban resilience project has helped elevate the livelihoods of 494,910 beneficiaries in some Somali cities and employed 583 women. In Somalia's capital of Mogadishu, where the construction industry has long been dominated by men, two women are among those reshaping that narrative. Farhiya Abdikadir Mohamed and Halima Abukar have found jobs in road building through the World Bank-backed Somalia Urban Resilience Project – Phase II, also known as the Nagaad Project. The Nagaad Project has so far benefitted 494,910 people (49%) out of the one million project target through its investments in urban infrastructure in six Somali cities: Mogadishu, Garowe, Baidoa, Kismayo, Dhusamareeb and Beledweyne. Of those reached, 51% are women and 14% are Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). The infrastructure they've been working on includes 34 km of roads—with integrated solar streetlights, sidewalks, roadside drainage, and greening—as well as a 145-meter bridge and 6 km of rehabilitated drainage. With works covering an additional 53 km of roads and 2 km of drainage ongoing across the six cities, the project is expected to reach an additional 700,000 upon completion – and to exceed its target of one million beneficiaries. Its municipal drought response has supported 1,056,397 Somalis, of whom 63% are women and 82% are IDPs. The project aims to improve local government capacity for service delivery and strengthen urban infrastructure and resilience against climate shocks, such as intense heat and flash floods. In a busy construction site in the Shangaani district of Mogadishu, the scent of asphalt lingers, heavy machinery rumbles, and workers move in synchronized precision. Among them, two figures stand out—not because they are out of place, but because they symbolize a long overdue change. Propelled by strength and need Farhiya and Halima, once hesitant to step into this male-dominated field, now walk with confidence among their colleagues, their safety vests gleaming like emblems of progress. For Farhiya, the idea of working in construction was once unthinkable. 'I grew up in a society where women were expected to take on traditional roles, caregiving, teaching, or running small businesses,' she says. 'I was always interested in how things were built and watched the men working on roads, wondering why women weren't part of it.' Her opportunity came through the Nagaad recruitment drive. She was doubtful at first: She wondered if she could handle the physical labor and if the men would accept her. She pushed forward instead, convincing herself that if men could do it, she too could succeed. On the other hand, Halima, a mother of seven, was driven by necessity. She had worked as a tea seller, cleaner, and tailor, but none of those jobs brought financial stability. 'When I heard about the opportunity to work in construction, I wasn't sure I could do it,' she said. 'But I had no other choice. My children needed me to be strong.' Both women faced immense challenges. The heat was unrelenting and the labor shattering. Yet, the heaviest burden was the resounding doubt of their male colleagues. 'The first time I picked up a shovel, some men laughed,' Halima said. 'They said I wouldn't last a week!' Neither backed down, throwing themselves into their work with determination. Slowly, perceptions began to shift. The same men who had once doubted them started recognizing their skills. 'They no longer see us as women trying to do a man's job,' said Farhiya. 'They see us as fellow workers.' Supported by the Nagaad Project, they received training in safety protocols, operating machinery, and laying asphalt. Mohamed Sheikh Ahmed, Community Engagement Specialist at the Banaadir Regional Administration's Project Implementation Unit, witnessed their transformation firsthand. 'Halima and Farhiya are among the hardest workers,' he stated. 'They've proven that women can do this job just as well as men. This is not just about roads or employment, it's about shifting mindsets and building a future where gender does not limit potential.' Personal and communal empowerment The change was more than professional, it was personal. 'This job gave me independence,' said Farhiya. 'I no longer rely on anyone for support. That alone is worth every challenge I have faced.' Halima's life, too, has been transformed. She can now afford rent, food, and school fees for her children. 'I don't worry about how I'll feed my kids,' she said. 'This job gave me life and hope.' Both Halima and Farhiya now dream of jobs beyond their current roles. Halima wants to train and mentor other women, helping them build confidence and skills. Farhiya aspires to lead construction projects as a site supervisor and to be a role model. 'I want to be an example to show that women can rise to the top in any field,' she declared. The most profound impact has been on their communities. 'My neighbors used to say construction wasn't for women,' Halima said. 'Now, they ask me how to join!' They are mentoring others, encouraging young women to explore paths once considered off-limits. 'There's no such thing as 'men's work' or 'women's work',' she said. 'If you have the skill and determination, you can do anything.' Their journey is far from over. As they stand on the newly constructed roads of Mogadishu, they know they have already started to pave the way for future generations of Somali women. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.
The Guardian
10-06-2025
- Business
- The Guardian
‘I learn faster through real-life situations': why degree apprenticeships are proving so appealing
'Having finished my apprenticeship in 2023, I now have a degree, more than five years' industry experience and have been the commercial lead on a project – amazing considering I had no industry experience prior,' says quantity surveyor Evie Marsden, who completed her degree apprenticeship at Sheffield Hallam University while working for Kier Construction. Having already completed a maths degree, she says the apprenticeship boosted her employability significantly. 'It not only shows I have the knowledge of the subject area, but I also have the skills and behaviours to carry out the role appropriately. After all, I've demonstrated that to my employer for five years now and continue to develop.' Apprenticeships are increasingly seen as a way of helping people overcome barriers to landing roles or careers that may otherwise be unattainable. Particularly in traditionally male-dominated areas such as construction where, for example, figures show that between 2018-19 and 2023-24 the number of women starting construction apprenticeships increased by almost two-thirds to 2,420. In-job training often means a boost in confidence for apprentices that academic learning alone can't match. 'The main challenge I faced during my apprenticeship was being a young female in the construction industry,' says Marsden. 'I found when working with new people I worked harder than my peers to be listened to and taken seriously. The apprenticeship helped me overcome this barrier, giving me confidence in my ability so I can work in a team where I'm both the youngest person and only female without feeling it's a disadvantage.' The numbers starting UK apprenticeship programmes for those aged 16 and over rose to 202,520 in the 2024-25 academic year, slightly up from 200,550 the previous year. Higher apprenticeship starts increased by 8.7% to 76,970 and degree apprenticeships starts by 12.5% to 36,570. The schemes give apprentices the chance to experience a real work environment – and earn an income – while gaining a recognised qualification. Sheffield Hallam University is home to the National Centre of Excellence for Degree Apprenticeships and is one of the largest providers of higher and degree apprenticeships. It has been running degree apprenticeships since 2015, receiving accolades including the Educate North 2024 Apprenticeship Award and Training Provider/Programme of the Year at South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards For Creative Industries 2024. Sharon Smith is director of skills and partnerships at Sheffield Hallam and is responsible for the apprenticeship and work-based learning coach team – at Hallam, academic teams deliver the degree element of the course and a team of apprenticeship 'coaches' support the apprentice alongside 'workplace mentors'. The university offers apprenticeships for more than 37 programmes (or roles). 'The vast majority align to government policy around economic growth and growth priority sectors,' says Smith. Indeed, apprenticeships are playing a significant role in supporting economic growth across industries and sectors crying out for skilled workers, from construction and engineering to healthcare and tech. 'That includes roles like advanced clinical practitioner, becoming a nurse or police constable, construction site management or jobs in town planning, for example,' says Smith. 'There's a real range that aligns to the priority sectors of the South Yorkshire local skills improvement plan and the national industrial strategy.' In general, it takes between three and four years to complete a degree apprenticeship (apprenticeships vary in length, depending on the level and professional body involved). There are significant benefits, besides learning while you earn, points out Smith. 'Because apprentices are studying at university, they're not just benefiting from their academic lecturers and coaches, but their peers too, who are doing similar jobs in different sectors. So they're learning about best practice from other workplaces and employers. And their workplace mentor offers additional support within the workplace, so they've got a very comprehensive support circle to help them to develop and progress.' Career progression is notable. 'Our workplace mentors tell us apprentices often progress in job roles quicker,' says Smith. 'And because apprentices complete work-based learning projects while at university, often they bring the outcomes or benefits of those into the workplace, making a huge difference, and increasing productivity and adding value.' Daisy Garfit completed her digital and technology solutions degree apprenticeship while working as an apprentice software developer at the digital consultancy DeeperThanBlue in Sheffield. She says the mix of work and study suited her well: 'I found the experience of learning through practical, workplace situations insightful and feel I learn faster through real-life situations. I never intended to go to university because I didn't believe it was a good fit for me. However, I did consider the prospect of an apprenticeship, allowing me to learn while working, something that aligned with my kinaesthetic learning style.' Her apprenticeship at DeeperThanBlue meant she was given the hands-on experience a traditional academic route wouldn't necessarily provide. 'I was involved in several customer projects where I developed and tested software solutions. This allowed me to use programming languages and tools learned during my studies in a practical setting while applying them to real-world problems. I also worked collaboratively with other developers, within my team and with external partners, helping me understand the importance of communication and collaboration in software development.' The structure of Sheffield Hallam's apprenticeship programme means there's a diverse population of apprentices at the university. 'Some of our apprentices are school leavers, who've left school with A-levels or level 3 vocational qualifications,' says Smith. 'Conversely, some employers give existing staff or mature students a chance to upskill or retrain with us via an apprenticeship, adding value for both the employee and employer. Many are also the first generation from their family to go to university. 'One of the employers we partner with is Barratt Redrow, the construction company, helping them recruit school leavers for their recruitment and assessment centres. We also help fill positions within NHS trusts, where many apprenticeships take the form of re-training existing employees in order for them to take on higher roles, like advanced clinical practitioner or senior leaders. Many of our employers also inform programme design to meet their skills needs, and influence the work-based projects the apprentices complete so they can then make a difference back in their workplace.' The scheme proves so successful for many employers that a long-term working relationship emerges and they become key employer partners. 'We get a lot of repeat business – for example, we have a really strong partnership with South Yorkshire Police and train their police constables – they now co-design and deliver the programme with us,' says Smith. 'For larger employers we might take on 20 apprentices every year, but for a smaller company it may be just one – but for that small business it improves productivity and for that one apprentice it can be really lifechanging. It all demonstrates how degree apprenticeships have a real impact on meeting skills needs and economic growth – locally, regionally and nationally.' Learn more about degree apprenticeships at Sheffield Hallam
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
'Construction firms won't let me work because I'm a girl'
A stonemasonry student said companies had told her she could not join the profession "because she's a girl". Alice, who is 17, was one of the students who took part in a competition for apprentices at Moulton College in Northampton on Thursday. Industry experts have said 19,750 extra construction workers are needed in the East of England by 2028 to meet government housebuilding targets. However, some students, like Alice, said they still faced barriers which made it difficult to pursue a career in construction. The SkillBuild competition, organised by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), tested apprentices and trainees in a variety of tasks, from furniture making to tiling. Alice, from Weston Favell in Northamptonshire, inherited her interest in architecture from her grandfather and wanted to work on some of the UK's greatest stone buildings - cathedrals. But she said her journey had not been easy. "I've tried to contact some companies to get onto that kind of work, but it hasn't really worked out," she told the BBC. "The main thing is that I'm a woman and a lot of companies have told me 'you can't do this because you're a girl - you're not strong enough, you won't be able to do the heavy labour'." Another competitor, Maizie from Bury St Edmonds in Suffolk, wanted to encourage more women to join the industry. The 17-year-old goes to college in Colchester and said: "In my class it's actually a pretty good mix, but in the industry as a whole, it's definitely a big imbalance. "People need to realise the value of these industries, and we need to push more young people to go into it. It can be a bit inaccessible at the beginning, especially for young people, since working in these workshop environments can be quite dangerous." The first obstacle in the competition for Rugby man Sean, 18, was having to "scavenge" for the right tools to make a porch roof, having brought the wrong ones. The bigger issue for him, generally, was the lack of opportunities for young people. He said: "There's not enough apprenticeships - it took me two years to get here, and I feel like that's one of the biggest problems. "The amount of houses they're trying to build; they definitely need more apprenticeships." A CITB report published this month said 19,750 new workers were needed in the region. Robert Smith, from the CITB, said "we really need to make that attractive so that they know there are jobs for the future, secure opportunities and great career pathways". The figures suggest there is a long way to go before there is a gender balance in the industry. According to The Office for National Statistics, women comprise just 15.8% of the construction workforce and only 2% of workers onsite. There is some hope, though, with the number of women as a proportion of the overall construction workforce increasing by 36.9% since 2012. The government said construction would be one area to benefit from a "record-breaking £3bn apprenticeship budget". Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. 'I went from studying fine art to tiling floors' Trainee brickie urges more women to consider trade Calls for gender balance in construction industry Moulton College Construction Industry Training Board
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
'Construction firms won't let me work because I'm a girl'
A stonemasonry student said companies had told her she could not join the profession "because she's a girl". Alice, who is 17, was one of the students who took part in a competition for apprentices at Moulton College in Northampton on Thursday. Industry experts have said 19,750 extra construction workers are needed in the East of England by 2028 to meet government housebuilding targets. However, some students, like Alice, said they still faced barriers which made it difficult to pursue a career in construction. The SkillBuild competition, organised by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), tested apprentices and trainees in a variety of tasks, from furniture making to tiling. Alice, from Weston Favell in Northamptonshire, inherited her interest in architecture from her grandfather and wanted to work on some of the UK's greatest stone buildings - cathedrals. But she said her journey had not been easy. "I've tried to contact some companies to get onto that kind of work, but it hasn't really worked out," she told the BBC. "The main thing is that I'm a woman and a lot of companies have told me 'you can't do this because you're a girl - you're not strong enough, you won't be able to do the heavy labour'." Another competitor, Maizie from Bury St Edmonds in Suffolk, wanted to encourage more women to join the industry. The 17-year-old goes to college in Colchester and said: "In my class it's actually a pretty good mix, but in the industry as a whole, it's definitely a big imbalance. "People need to realise the value of these industries, and we need to push more young people to go into it. It can be a bit inaccessible at the beginning, especially for young people, since working in these workshop environments can be quite dangerous." The first obstacle in the competition for Rugby man Sean, 18, was having to "scavenge" for the right tools to make a porch roof, having brought the wrong ones. The bigger issue for him, generally, was the lack of opportunities for young people. He said: "There's not enough apprenticeships - it took me two years to get here, and I feel like that's one of the biggest problems. "The amount of houses they're trying to build; they definitely need more apprenticeships." A CITB report published this month said 19,750 new workers were needed in the region. Robert Smith, from the CITB, said "we really need to make that attractive so that they know there are jobs for the future, secure opportunities and great career pathways". The figures suggest there is a long way to go before there is a gender balance in the industry. According to The Office for National Statistics, women comprise just 15.8% of the construction workforce and only 2% of workers onsite. There is some hope, though, with the number of women as a proportion of the overall construction workforce increasing by 36.9% since 2012. The government said construction would be one area to benefit from a "record-breaking £3bn apprenticeship budget". Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. 'I went from studying fine art to tiling floors' Trainee brickie urges more women to consider trade Calls for gender balance in construction industry Moulton College Construction Industry Training Board
