Lauren Evans, Head of Business Development at Avrenim
International Women’s Day in the Facilities Management industry is an occasion to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in a field which has been solely dominated by men in the past. Today recognises the importance of female inclusion, recognising the pivotal role we play in keeping some of the world’s biggest buildings operational at their optimum potential. Acknowledging the leadership, innovation and potential women bring to facilities management is extremely important, even more so as it is our goal to encourage more girls to see the industry as a viable career option and a way of encouraging positive change across a thriving industry that is open to change.
Jacqui Johnson, Communications Director at Sutcliffe
If young girls and women understood just how varied, interesting and extremely rewarding a career in the engineering industry was, then more would see it as a valid option. Nevertheless, without a doubt we’re seeing an increased number of young girls entering the sector at apprenticeship level. I was never exposed to the possibility of working in the engineering industry when I was younger, but I’m glad to see an increasing number of young girls entering the business, and not just in administrative roles but as engineers, designers and surveyors.
When we cultivate an environment that champions the inclusion of women, we encourage endless possibilities. Bridging the gender gap in male-dominated industries is imperative, especially by nurturing interest and inclusion among young girls, beginning right from school level.