From the Sink to the Site
Jennii Chadwick, Graduate & Student Committee,Nottingham Trent University

I can't really say why I came in to the construction industry. There is no real explanation, more of an accident than anything. I knew when I started my degree that there were not many women in this industry but this didn't put me off. My first day of university was still quite a shock, I did not expect to be one of three women in a room of hundreds, I think once you get over the reality shock, you make a decision - either you know you can make it or your can't. Before I came to university, I had a friend who completed a Mechanical Engineering degree and went to work for a major player. She didn't last six months, as she hated being so isolated due to her sex, so I already knew what was ahead.

Going to work was an interesting experience. I listened to a lot of men telling me what they thought of women in construction - it is very interesting that every man has an opinion and most women I've met don't, they just get on with the job. Women stand out in this industry and I see this as an advantage. I think women are much better at the win/win concept as introduced by Covey in his best seller The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and are therefore more equipped to deal with the recommendations of Latham. There is a possible niche for women here to make their mark.

There are many stereotypes within this industry - sexist, chauvinistic, strip club loving men with women doing there menial work - and I sense on the whole this is true. I also think there are some women in this industry who play up to this image and do themselves no justice. This is not a fair world and I think everyone has to make it for themselves. You cannot always blame others. I feel the only way this industry's view of women can change is by women on the inside making it for themselves and imposing change. I am glad I made this career choice and I think there are a lot of people in the industry who do not fit the stereotype. I believe the industry is changing but it is a slow process.

This report first featured in the April 2002 issue of Civil Engineering Surveyor.

Jennii Chadwick