UK Construction Week (UKCW) will once again be spotlighting women in the construction industry next week, with a dedicated programme of panel discussions, skills workshops and networking opportunities.
The three-day event is taking place at Excel London from 12-14 May. Visitors can explore CPD-accredited panels and seminars that tackle the construction sector’s key challenges around representation and retention, while highlighting opportunities for women to lead the way in driving diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Sam Patel, divisional director at UKCW London, said: “[W]e understand our role in helping to champion the fantastic voices we already have driving diversity and inclusion in the construction sector, while inspiring more women to consider a career in the industry. This year’s programme aims to inspire both reflection and action, and we’re really pleased to have organisations such as Women in BIM on board as partners to help steer this forward.”
Talk highlights include:
Tuesday 12th May
Contech & AI Hub, 3.00pm
The three C’s for building a more sustainable digital future: construction, circularity and collaboration
Women in BIM will explore how construction, circularity and collaboration form the foundation of a more sustainable and digitally enabled built environment.
This session will highlight how innovative digital practices and inclusive collaboration can drive circular approaches to construction, reducing waste, improving efficiency and promoting long-term sustainability.
Gain insights into emerging technologies, real-world case studies and the vital role of continuous learning in achieving a more resilient built environment.
Speakers: Andrea Charlson, senior sustainability lead and circular economy lead, The Concrete Centre; Eve Choy, sustainability manager, Structure Tone; Heba Bevan, chief executive, UtterBerry; and Marie Grieve, managing director, Costello Palmer & Global Vice Chair, Women in BIM
Contech & AI Hub, 4.00pm
Building Connections: Women in BIM Networking
Women in BIM (WIB) will provide an inspiring networking session focused on collaboration and professional growth. As a powerful collaborative network, WIB brings together professionals across the digital built environment who are passionate about advancing diversity, inclusion and innovation within the industry. This session offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded peers, share insights and explore how Building Information Modelling (BIM) and digital transformation are shaping the future of construction and design.
Speakers: Marie Grieve (managing director, Costello Palmer & Global Vice Chair, Women in BIM)
Wednesday 13th May
Culture Change & Skills Hub, 10.30am
WiC Leadership & Management: Motivation Intelligence Training Session
Discover practical strategies to build clarity, confidence, and leadership skills for every stage of your career. Speakers: To be confirmed as of the time of writing.
Thursday 14th May
Culture Change & Skills Hub, 10.30am
Raising the bar: Delivering the national site standard for female operatives in the construction industry
Learn more about the National Site Standard for Female Operatives and what it means for the future of construction workplaces. This session will examine the practical changes required on site, from welfare facilities to culture and leadership, and why raising standards is essential to attracting and retaining talent. Join a panel of experts as they discuss how consistent, measurable standards can drive accountability and create safer, more equitable environments across the sector.
Speakers: Renee Preston (chief executive, Gallaway Construction)
Culture Change & Skills Hub, 12.30pm
Women in Construction lunch
Join an inspiring and engaging networking lunch celebrating the women shaping the future of the built environment. This informal lunch will bring together professionals from across the sector to connect, collaborate and champion diversity in the industry at every level.
Culture Change & Skills Hub, 1.10pm
Allies and mentorship in building a career in construction
Developing talent is essential to ensuring long-term capability and effective succession planning in the construction industry. This session looks at how organisations are building strong talent pipelines through mentorship programmes, apprenticeships, and graduate schemes. Speakers will showcase innovative approaches to retaining and upskilling staff.
Speakers: Doreen DiSalvo (head of brand and communications, Hilti)
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