Women into Construction

When Suited for Success was approached to support a pilot employment programme supporting women to work into construction it was a big yes! On Monday 20th May we hosted an employability day supporting a group of 12 women of all ages and backgrounds wanting to move into a career in construction.

The partnership programme including South & City College Birmingham, HS2 Ltd, West Midlands Combined Authority and Birmingham City Council offering a six-week programme is linked to upcoming job opportunities in construction across Birmingham and the West Midlands.

After a week of health and safety training to gain their Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card, the group of women spent the day at Suited for Success getting dressed and styled helped by a volunteer team of female staff from HS2 ready for their work placements at HS2 or one of its numerous supply chain companies.

During the styling sessions there were lively conversations and debates about what women should wear to a job interview in construction. One young lady commented: “I want a career in engineering, I don’t want to look too girlie for my interview.”

Preparing for a career in construction

Throughout the day the ladies also had one-to-one sessions updating CVs, researching their placement companies and exploring career aspirations with a HR specialist and the staff from the Birmingham City Council WOW employment team.

The variety of exciting roles the women will be doing include ecology, civil engineering, design and archaeology. Some of the complete placements will progress into paid employment.

See more pictures from the day

Website: Women into Construction