At Lovell, 28% of the workforce are women compared to the industry average of just 15%, according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS). Lovell has a number of programmes to attract more women, including education about opportunities available within Lovell and the wider construction sector through their graduate and apprenticeship schemes, a speaker series featuring female Lovell employees from different specialisations, and an ongoing partnership with the independent not-for-profit organisation Women Into Construction.

Abigale Kyle, 25, from Falkirk, has just completed a bachelor’s with Honours degree in quantity surveying at Edinburgh Napier University and Erin Davies, 36, from Strathaven, recently earned her HND in civil engineering.

Abigale Kyle, quantity surveyor at Lovell, said: “The support and opportunities provided by Lovell have been instrumental in my growth. The two years of full-time work and study were challenging but crucial in shaping my career. I now feel equipped not just with the technical skills but also the interpersonal skills needed to thrive in this industry. Lovell’s commitment to further qualifications shows their dedication to our growth.”

Erin Davies, development engineer at Lovell, added: “Balancing full-time work, study, and raising three kids was challenging but rewarding. Lovell’s flexibility and support were key, and now I can show my children that with hard work and determination, you can achieve your goals. I look forward to continuing my career and setting an example for them.”

Tony Rankin, regional managing director at Lovell, commented: “A great deal of work is being done at Lovell to attract, recruit and train increasing numbers of women to bring us towards gender equality. The 2 achievements of Abigale Kyle and Erin Davies are a testament to their hard work and dedication, and we hope their example will inspire more women to consider a career in the construction industry.”