More than 200 women gather at Portman Road to tackle construction industry gender gap

Why it matters: The construction industry has historically struggled to attract women into the sector. Events like this aim to change that by creating visible role models and clear pathways into the industry.

The big picture: The Women in Construction Anglia event at Ipswich Town Football Club on 10 December connected current professionals with the next generation of female construction workers. It bought together:

• Students from West Suffolk College and Suffolk New College

• Industry professionals from across East Anglia

• Seven major construction firms as sponsors

• Expert speakers including Siu Mun Li, CITB's Most Influential Woman in Construction 2023 and Director at Temporary Works Forum

What they're saying: "We can't get more women into the industry if they don't know the opportunities that exist," said Clare Friel, Managing Director of marketing agency Friel and founder of Construction Anglia.

Averil Young, lecturer at West Suffolk College, highlighted the event's impact: "Meeting powerful role models—women excelling in roles across the industry, from hands-on trades to senior leadership—has an immeasurable impact, showing my students what's possible."

Between the lines: The initiative is gaining support from major regional construction firms, with DPL Group, LDD Construction, KLH Architects, Howard Construction, Breheny, TRU7 Group and Hudson Group all sponsoring the event.

What's next: The organisation plans to continue hosting events throughout the year, following the success of their first gathering in October.

The bottom line: By bringing together students, educators and industry professionals, Women in Construction Anglia is working to create a more diverse and inclusive construction sector in East Anglia.