Women in Construction Week 2026
In celebration of Women In Construction (WIC) Week 2026, we asked our colleagues to share their experiences, challenges, and advice for the next generation of women in construction. Their stories celebrate the progress made and the opportunities ahead.
Meet the Team
June Walton
Senior EHS Consultant
At times, working in a male-dominated industry can feel daunting, but with more women entering construction, the support continues to grow. I chose this career for its long-term opportunities and the chance to challenge stereotypes, and I’ve been proud to earn my place with the encouragement of supportive friends and family.
What I value most is that construction is always evolving, with strong teamwork and diverse career paths. I’m proud to have managed complex projects safely and improved on-site safety standards. My advice to young women: speak up, seek mentors, stay focused, and let your work speak for itself.
Paula Kileen
Health and Safety Consultant
Young women entering construction should seek mentors, build strong networks, and commit to continuous learning. Be confident in your abilities, prioritise health and safety, and champion diversity — your perspective adds real value to the industry.
I chose construction for its blend of engineering, design, and project management, and for the opportunity to shape communities while promoting safety and wellbeing. Challenging stereotypes and paving the way for future generations makes the journey even more rewarding — and it’s a path I would choose again.
Ana Claudia Duarte
Health and Safety Administrator
I started working four years ago as a Health and Safety Administrator, and over time I became increasingly interested in the construction industry and the impact this role has on projects and people. I realised that it is a very engaging field where there is always something new to learn. It’s also an industry where strong teamwork is essential for success. That’s when I decided to pursue a Health and Safety course and fully commit to developing my career in this field.
What I like most about being in the construction industry is that it is a rapidly growing sector in Ireland, offering many opportunities for professional development. I also appreciate that it’s a dynamic field that is always moving forward. Every day, we can clearly see the progress being made. In addition, each project is different, which keeps me motivated to continue learning and improving my skills.
Cheryl Beamish
Health and Safety Consultant
I love being in the construction industry because of the constant opportunity to learn. Every day brings something new — whether it’s understanding how a machine operates or seeing how an entire project process comes together from start to finish. There’s so much to gain from observing how processes are implemented and from the shared drive to find better, more efficient solutions.
That learning doesn’t just come from management, but also from the site personnel carrying out the work each day. There is always room to grow, improve, and expand your knowledge.
For young women entering the industry, my advice is simple: just go for it. There is nothing stopping you. Don’t be afraid to use your voice — you will be listened to. The industry is evolving, and women’s perspectives are valued and respected. Be confident, speak up, and back yourself. You absolutely belong here.
Clodagh Cremin
Project Administrator
As a woman working in a Project Co-ordination role in a typically male dominated environment, I had to strive harder to ensure that projects under my remit ran smoothly and efficiently, managing documentation and maintaining accurate records of audit findings and preparing detailed reports for Management review allowing for continuous improvement.
I honed exceptional organisation skills and attention to detail, both of which are critical to keeping projects on track and being reported on accurately.
In truth, I like flying the flag for not just women in industry but for all genders, races and religions. My ethos would be to encompass all and exclude none — equal opportunity and respect for all.
Chloe Sugrue
Junior Health and Safety Consultant
I decided to work in health and safety after living in Australia and working on a large solar farm, where I first saw how important it is to keep people safe in high-risk environments. That experience sparked my interest and inspired me to join the industry. Even though I am still very new to it, I find all the different projects so interesting and enjoy seeing the variety of day-to-day work.
To me, being a woman in construction means bringing a different perspective and showing resilience. It’s about building confidence, supporting others on site, and helping create a culture where everyone goes home safe.
Kaylee Want
Environmental & Design Safety Manager
I began my career on CCGT plants across Ireland, gaining hands-on experience and learning the realities of site operations. Two safety officers from ASM Group encouraged me to pursue health and safety, and enrolling in a course set the foundation for my career in the field.
Starting out in a male-dominated industry was daunting. Some traditional workers weren’t used to seeing women on site, but I turned that challenge into motivation. Over time, I’ve seen attitudes shift. Today, the focus is on skills and expertise, not gender, which is incredibly rewarding.
What I love most about construction is seeing projects come to life from the ground up. As a health and safety officer, it’s hugely satisfying to ensure everyone can work safely and go home at the end of the day. It’s not just about building structures; it’s about creating a safe, supportive environment for people to do their best work.
My advice to young women: just go for it. Speak up, trust your abilities, and embrace every opportunity. Challenges will come, but your perspective is needed and valued. You absolutely belong here.
I’m proudest of the personal growth I’ve achieved — gaining confidence, taking on responsibility, and continuously learning. That ongoing development is what truly defines my career.
Stephanie O’Sullivan
Accounts Executive
As a woman working in construction in the accounts department, I’m proud of the role I play in an industry that builds real, lasting results. While I’m not on-site, my work behind the scenes — preparing budgets, tracking costs, and keeping finances on track — helps keep projects moving.
Construction is fast-paced and team-driven, and I enjoy being part of something bigger than myself. It’s empowering to work in a traditionally male-dominated industry and know that my skills and contribution truly matter.
I genuinely enjoy what I do, and I wouldn’t change it.
Georgina Rowley
Health & Safety Consultant
I wanted a career that was dynamic, had opportunities for growth and had me in different settings throughout the years I’ll be working, which construction offers. Despite having no experience in the industry prior to entering, I quite like a challenge so thought, sure why not give it a go?
My advice for younger women is to be open to new experiences. While there is a simple end goal for most construction projects, getting there involves various roles and challenges along the way, so it is important to embrace that. Not only does this help build your knowledge in the industry but also develops versatility, which is a valuable quality to have.
Arlette Goggin
Training Department Coordinator
As a woman in Health and Safety training, I’m proud to help protect the people who build our communities. My role isn’t just about policies. It’s about making sure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day.
Construction is fast-paced and high-risk, and I love equipping workers with the knowledge, awareness, and confidence to work safely. Seeing teams take safety seriously because of the training we provide is incredibly rewarding.
Working in a traditionally male-dominated industry has strengthened my confidence and resilience. I’m proud to represent women in construction and help create safer, stronger workplaces for everyone.
ASM Group Commitment
At ASM Group, we are committed to building a safer, more inclusive construction industry. We recognise the invaluable skills, perspectives, and leadership women bring to the sector and are proud to support their entry and career progression through our health and safety training and development programmes.
By equipping all workers with the knowledge, confidence, and skills they need, we ensure every voice is heard and valued on site. Diversity strengthens teams, drives innovation, and fosters safer, more collaborative workplaces. ASM Group is dedicated to helping create a construction sector where everyone can thrive.
