According to a recent report by The Chartered Institute of Building, there has been a significant increase in the number of women working in construction roles over the past 12 months.
However, with a national skills shortage and ageing workforce, the government is calling for more companies to support this trend and encourage greater diversity on the shop floor.
Global equipment solutions provider, Terex Construction, is committed to inspiring the next generation of female engineers. As such, the company has linked in with the government’s #NotJustForBoys campaign, implementing new initiatives to encourage women to consider a career in manufacturing.
Site dumper logistics team member, Lisa Perkins, was one of six women inspired to join Terex following last year’s Women in the Workforce Open Day. Here, Lisa tells her story.
“Before taking a job in the construction sector, I had previously worked as an accountant. But, after a number of years, I made the decision to look for a more ‘hands on’ career, so changed professions entirely and trained as a welder.
“Although the job was really rewarding and challenging, I went along to last year’s Women in the Workforce Open Day after hearing about Terex Construction’s recruitment opportunities from a friend.
“The day was really inspirational. Although I wasn’t expecting it, more than a dozen applicants attended, all with a clear passion for the construction industry. A number of us were offered roles the very next day, so I made the decision to join the company alongside a number of other female team members.
“I initially started on the backhoe loader manufacturing line, before moving across to site dumpers a few months later. The job is hugely varied and I undertake a number of tasks; everything from selecting engine parts and coordinating lists for the pickers to managing trolleys and getting involved in production.
“It’s this variety which I enjoy the most, along with the friendly team I work with and the dynamism of the entire factory. There’s massive potential at Terex. Last year we had more units going through the factory than ever before. Next year, projections will see this figure soar even higher.
“Working at Terex is such a great job for anyone passionate about the construction industry. Terex values make us a solid unit – gender isn’t important. Everyone supports each other and we have a great time manufacturing products we’re really proud of.
“In the future, I hope to become team leader for site dumpers. Other than that, I want to come in every morning and do the best job I can possibly do. I’m proud of what we do at Terex and I’m proud to be part of the team.
“I don’t come to work for a pay packet; I come to work because I love my job. We’re like a family.”
Lisa joined Terex Construction last year as part of the company’s Women in the Workforce programme.
