BELLWAY has announced that the firm’s commitment to the Home Builders Federation programme encouraging women into construction has paid off with three assistant site managers now working within the company’s Scotland West division.
Alyson Watt, Clare Bauldie and Morgan Lindsay all arrived at the business through different pathways but all agree that they would encourage women to consider construction as a career because of the diversity of available jobs and the combination of working onsite and within an office environment.
Alyson began her career in customer care before transferring to work on site. Morgan joined the business as an apprentice straight from school after listening to a talk by Bellway’s construction director, while Clare worked in property restoration before joining the business. All three have attended college whilst working and are now qualified in construction management.
Clare Bauldie, who joined Bellway six weeks ago and is based at the company’s Ellingwood development in Robroyston, said, “Bellway have been very supportive and I’m really enjoying my new role. I would certainly encourage young women to consider a career in construction because of its variety. A general knowledge on the business combined with good people skills is needed and a good set of legs, as there’s lots of walking about.”
Morgan added, “At first, I was unsure, I didn’t know how I would fit in being a young female who’d just left school on a site full of middle-aged men. It took me a while to adjust, but it was all worth it.”
Alyson commented, “Although I enjoyed working in an office environment, I was keen to work outdoors. Luckily working for a large housebuilder meant I was given the opportunity to try an onsite role and I love it.”
Bellway is one of nine UK housebuilders to have partnered with the Home Builders Federation to create a bespoke programme to attract and recruit women into the industry.
Andy Borland, construction director, Bellway Homes Ltd (Scotland West), commented, “At long last it feels as if we are starting to see changes within the industry and the work companies are putting into place around diversity is beginning to pay off. There’s still lots to be done but it’s a start and the three women are testament to that change and hopefully role models for school leavers considering their future careers.”
