The Construction Industry Training Board recognised outstanding women in construction at an event hosted by the National Federation of Builders on 30 September.
- The awards increased visibility and accessibility for female and non-binary role models in the construction industry.
- Categories included Local Heroes, Women on the Tools, the Influencer, Allies, and One to Watch.
- Katherine Evans was honoured as the UK’s Most Influential Overall, highlighting her extraordinary contributions.
- CITB’s Danny Clarke and NFB’s Richard Beresford praised the winners for driving change within the industry.
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) unveiled the winners of the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards for 2024, during an event held on 30 September and hosted by the National Federation of Builders (NFB). The awards aim to underscore the significant contributions of women and non-binary individuals within the construction sector, promoting inclusivity and ensuring the sector remains open to diverse talent.
Each year, these prestigious awards celebrate a multitude of achievements across various categories. This year’s winners notably included exceptional talent and leadership from across the United Kingdom. The Local Heroes category acknowledges women excelling in operational or site-level roles in different regions across the UK, recognising individuals such as Kayleigh Merritt from Winvic Construction in the Midlands, and Katherine Evans from Bold as Brass in Wales.
In the fiercely competitive Women on the Tools category, the award went to Nettie Taylor of Eliza Tay Lady Decorators, recognising her efforts to inspire the next generation of construction workers through her craft. Meanwhile, the Influencer category celebrates those making significant organisational or national impacts. This year, it recognised individuals such as Sam May from WSP and Carolyn Jay from Ringway Infrastructure Services.
The Allies category, celebrating key influencers supporting inclusion and change regardless of gender, included winners like Alice Brookes from On the Tools and Tony O’Sullivan from CPI Mortars. Also honoured was Lade Ogunlaja from Turner & Townsend, emphasising the importance of allyship in fostering a more inclusive industry.
The One to Watch category shines a spotlight on industry newcomers who champion equality, diversity, inclusion, and equity. Kynleigh Parker from Lovell Partnerships was recognised, underscoring the vital role new talent plays in advancing these crucial values.
The evening’s highlight was the announcement of Katherine Evans as the UK’s Most Influential Overall. CITB’s England engagement director Danny Clarke lauded the awardees, expressing delight in honouring those driving significant change in the sector. Similarly, NFB CEO Richard Beresford acknowledged the event as a privilege, reflecting the positive evolution within the industry.
The event showcased the significant strides women and their allies are making in reshaping the construction industry.
