A SITE manager fora development in Chelford is urging more women to consider joining the construction industry this International Women's Day.

Laura Carty, 31, joined David Wilson Homes five years ago as a sales advisor, and soon expressed an interest in working onsite.

She swapped her mouse and keyboard for a hard hat and took up the role of trainee assistant site manager at the Galloway Grange development in Dixon Drive.

The homes are being built on the former Chelford Market and Agricultural Centre land.

After originally pursuing a career in law, Laura looked construction after being inspired by her own dad, 54-year-old Chris, who also works for the company as a construction director.

She said: “A career in housebuilding appealed to me because of both the diversity that the industry offers and the impact that we directly have on homebuyers.

“We are building houses for people to make their homes, and I get great satisfaction out of leading our customers on their journeys and seeing the positive outcome when we hand the keys over to them.

“I chose to join David Wilson Homes because as a company they offer fantastic opportunities for career advancement, they provide structured opportunities for personal development and even if you wish to change career path, you are able to do so under the same employer.

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“The support I have received is amazing and the team within which I work have provided me with the tools necessary to help me thrive individually as well as in a group.”

Despite the world of construction being a predominantly male-dominated industry, Laura believes that she is seeing a change in the number of women considering careers in homebuilding.

She added: “Every day there are more and more women coming through and leading the way in a variety of different roles and positions.

“Just recently I have been offered the opportunity to study at a post graduate level for a masters in construction management, which will be fantastic for my personal development.

“There are many young women that have great skills sets which could contribute wonderfully to the sector, that may not be fully aware of the variety of positions available to them.

“My advice to women who are considering a career in homebuilding is to never forget what your passions really are, always follow what you love and stand for what you believe in, and do all of these with drive, determination and commitment.”

Figures from the GMB Union report that just one in eight construction workers is female, with David Wilson Homes using Sunday, March 8 – International Women's Day – as a chance to encourage more women to explore the options available in the industry.

Robert Holbrook, managing director at David Wilson Homes North West, said: “As a five star developer, it’s important we set an example and create a diverse workplace for other housebuilders to follow suit in the years to come.

“We’re delighted to see employees such as Laura changing the face of the industry and setting a precedent that women can and should pursue a career in homebuilding.

“We hope to see more young women getting involved in the sector in the future, and are excited to see how Laura progresses in her role as trainee assistant site manager.”