Driven by my lifelong desire to leave the world a better place than I found it, I joined the ranks of engineers and constructors responsible for designing and building our most critical infrastructure.

While I didn’t start my professional life in construction, over the past 15 years the promise of challenging and dynamic environments inherent in mission critical projects has fuelled my intellectual curiosity and professional ambitions. I’ve not been disappointed!

I have worked on complex programmes in a broad range of industries including civil infrastructure, transportation, energy and defence. This has allowed me to travel the world gaining more qualifications and experiences, and meeting truly inspiring people.

I work with amazing colleagues and have been privileged to mentor and develop the next wave of rockstar, female talent in this male-dominated industry. Recently, I was selected to be the first female Head of Area Build at CityFibre, which is delivering fibre to homes across the UK. This role requires effective communications skills; success hinges on an ability to communicate across the trades, functions, disciplines, and throughout the organization.

If you’re looking to join this industry, your mind set is essential; regardless of whether you are an early entrant, mid-career or a seasoned veteran, your resilience and ability to overcome challenges depends entirely on a positive attitude.

So, stay focused, remain positive and you can achieve – and build – anything.