Danielle, who is from Ballynahinch but now calls Lisburn home, recently completed her MSc in Construction and Project Management at Queen's University Belfast. Her story is one of determination, balance, and breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Danielle's journey into construction began with an undergraduate degree in Interior and Environmental Design from the University of Dundee. However, her passion for the construction industry led her to seek further qualifications. "I had been working in construction and wanted to get a construction qualification," Danielle explains. The flexibility of the part-time MSc program at Queen's allowed her to continue working full-time at Gilbert-Ash while pursuing her studies.

When asked about the gender disparity in construction, Danielle acknowledges that it remains a male-dominated field. However, she's optimistic about the changes taking place. "At Gilbert-Ash, 23% of our team are women, while 28% of our senior management team is female," she notes. The company is actively working to improve diversity and inclusion, collaborating with organisations like WOMEN'STEC and CITBNI to encourage more females to join the construction industry.

Interestingly, Danielle didn't have female role models when starting her career in construction. Her mentors and leaders were predominantly male. However, she believes that by sharing their stories and experiences, women currently in the industry can inspire and encourage others to join. "There are a number of brilliant women now working in the industry," she says, emphasising the importance of representation.

Danielle's experience at Queen's University was overwhelmingly positive. She found the course content, particularly the project management, planning and control, and construction law modules, to be engaging and relevant.

The university also provided exceptional support, especially during her second year when she had her second child. "Queen’s facilitated me in lectures with my son when he was just 3 weeks old, they gave me access to a private room to feed and change my son, and even provided a parking space on campus to help me juggle motherhood and studying," Danielle recalls gratefully.

The MSc programme at Queen's boasted a diverse student body, with approximately 30% women. Danielle found the environment to be supportive and encouraging, crediting lecturers like Tara Brooks for their excellence and approachability. "Tara is an excellent lecturer and really encourages all students. Her knowledge is second to none," Danielle enthuses.

Reflecting on her time at Queen's, Danielle acknowledges the challenges of balancing full-time work, studies, and family life. However, she found the experience incredibly rewarding.

Her advice to women considering a similar path?

"I would highly recommend the course. It gives a really good overview into all aspects of construction project management. Construction is a challenging career and not a 9-5 job, but it is incredibly rewarding, and I couldn't imagine ever working in any other industry. The learning is phenomenal, and it is a lot of fun".

Danielle's story is a testament to the changing face of the construction industry. It highlights the importance of education, support systems, and personal determination in breaking down barriers and creating a more diverse and inclusive field. As more women like Danielle share their experiences and successes, they pave the way for future generations to see construction as an exciting and viable career path, regardless of gender.

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For enquiries please contact Daria Pudovkina at: d.pudovkina@qub.ac.uk