Women in Construction Week is a time to celebrate the women shaping our industry and to inspire the next generation to see a future for themselves in construction. At MGF, we are proud of the women across our engineering, operations, manufacturing and support teams who help deliver safer and smarter temporary works solutions every day.
Although construction has traditionally been male dominated, more women are now entering roles in engineering, design, manufacturing, technical services and project delivery. Their contribution strengthens our industry through fresh perspectives, problem solving and collaboration.
With so many routes to explore, construction offers genuine opportunities for people to build fulfilling careers. The experiences shared by our team show the many ways a career in this industry can begin and grow.
Katie Eighteen – Welder
“Women working in construction are proving every day that skill, resilience and teamwork matter far more than stereotypes. I feel incredibly supported in my role as a welder. I have a great laugh with the team, and I am constantly learning from everyone around me, which makes the job both rewarding and motivating.
The industry is full of interesting people and camaraderie and being part of that is something I am proud of.
One of the few challenges I consistently face is finding workwear that fits properly. Most uniforms are still designed with men in mind. Better fitting PPE would make a real difference and help women feel as comfortable and confident at work as anyone else. MGF are working with me closely on this. They have already found welding gloves that fit me properly and it has made all the difference.
I am incredibly proud of what I do. I love meeting new people and telling them I am a welder. The look on their faces will never grow old.”
Caitlin Willcox – Senior Marketing Executive
“Coming from seven years in legal marketing, I wanted to step into an industry that felt new, challenging and full of learning opportunities. MGF drew me in because, even though much of the work is not visible to the public, it plays a crucial role in keeping people safe on site.
The technical knowledge across the business is incredible, and people are always willing to share it. That has made transitioning into a completely new sector far more accessible than I expected. It is fast paced, a bit chaotic at times and definitely never boring. Every day brings something different, and the projects we support are impressive.
For women considering construction, I would say that you do not need a technical background to thrive here. Bring curiosity, ask questions and give yourself the space to learn. The industry is far more welcoming and full of more opportunities than many people realise.”
Mechelle O’Hara – Regional Manager
“I never planned on having a career in construction. It just kind of happened. I came to work here over the summer holidays and I’m still here 35 years later. No two days are ever the same and I enjoy that.
I started off in the accounts department and then ended up on the hire desk. Back then, us women were in more traditional roles, so being one of the first girls on the hire desk and getting customers, mostly men at the time, to trust that you know what you’re on about was a big thing.
Later on, I moved into operations, which was also male dominated, and then into regionals. Growing a team and spotting people’s talents is something I’m really proud of. We’ve had guys and girls start off in the yard who are now operations managers. Giving people opportunities and helping them develop is really important to me.
This wasn’t my planned career choice, but I’m glad I’ve done it.”
Sarah May – Technical Sales Representative
“I started off cleaning for MGF and then a position in the office became available, so I stepped into that. It was meant to be temporary while I was finishing university, but the vibe of MGF kept me here. With the support I’ve had, I’ve managed to work my way through admin, hire desk and now into sales. That is my success story.
There are so many avenues in construction. People assume it’s all site work or the depot, but there are loads of different things you can do.
My advice is don’t be afraid to give it a go. Try everything. Don’t pigeonhole yourself into one area. Lean on the people around you because everyone wants you to succeed.”
Encouraging more women into construction is about more than representation. It is about building a stronger, more innovative and more inclusive industry. One that reflects the communities we serve and benefits from the strengths and perspectives of the full workforce.
This Women in Construction Week, we celebrate the women at MGF who make a difference every day and we welcome the next generation who are ready to do the same.
For media enquiries, contact marketing@mgf.co.uk.
To read more on Women in Construction Week: MGF Celebrate Women in Construction Week
Whether you have a question, need a quote, or want to discuss a project, our dedicated team is ready to assist you.
