Women in Construction Week 2023: Celebrating inspiring and successful alumni

The University of Salford has seen a huge increase in the number of women enrolling on Degree level Apprenticeships and traditional Degree courses in the field of civil engineering and construction in the past few years.

What better time than Women in Construction Week to celebrate their success?

Though still male dominated, the number of women going into construction is increasing. On the Chartered Surveyor course number of women have increased fivefold between 2016 and 2023, with increases also in Civil Engineering. At Salford University, many female students have shone with outstanding skills and knowledge and are going on to have exceptional careers.

Among the graduates who have gone on to success is Georgina Ronksley, who graduated in 2021 with a BSc (Hons) in Real Estate Surveying (Asset Management). She completed an apprenticeship with her employer HBD. She graduated with a 1^st Class Degree and was nominated for Apprentice of the Year at the 2023 BusinessLive Awards for her outstanding work. When talking about her apprenticeship, she said: “I’m excited to continue my career at HBD and be involved in the day-to-day property management of the portfolio as well as more strategic asset management. It’s a great and fast paced industry to work in. The industry’s view towards women is changing for the better and it’s becoming more inclusive.”

Another successful graduate is Hannah Daly (MRICS) who left in 2022 with a BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying after completing an apprenticeship with her employer Wates Group, and is now studying for a Masters in Construction Disputes at Salford. She passed her RICS Assessment of Professional Competence on her first attempt and is a valuable member of the team at Wates, thanks to her inspiring dedication and commitment. Hannah said: “Within the five years I have worked in the industry, the industry is constantly improving. It is a safe environment and a place for women to thrive. Don’t be intimidated, times are changing, and perceptions are now different.

“For anyone starting their career, remember to be confident and remember the value you have to offer. The construction industry is traditionally male dominated, and the perception of this environment can be intimidating for young females who are aspiring to careers within this sector, but it is important for females to know that the industry has changed.”

Nicky Harris, Programme Leader and Lecturer of the Construction Project Management and Placements and Employability Tutor for the Built Environment course, said: “The numbers of women on the programmes is growing. I feel the main reason for this is due to the huge push that has been taking place with the professional bodies, the industry as a whole and certainly the university has been instrumental in encouraging and inspiring young people, particularly girls in an exciting and challenging career that is varied, well paid and has good career progression.

“At Salford we pride ourselves in providing extended support to female students looking to go into male dominated industries and we are extremely proud of all our female students that have shown their talents in this industry.”