Lauren Courty
Assistant Director, Home and Building Safety
Considering I work in a predominantly male environment related to home and building safety, International Women’s Day has a great deal of significance to me.
The incredible progress we have made towards achieving gender equality in the workplace, particularly in the construction industry, is something I am proud to celebrate. As a woman who works in repairs, maintenance, compliance, and building safety, I have experienced firsthand how establishing relationships, breaking down barriers, and confronting unconscious bias can pose a significant challenge to a woman who is simply trying to fulfil her role.
Throughout my career, which began in the nuclear industry, I have been fortunate to be surrounded by both male and female role models who have contributed to the development of my career and to the development into the leader that I am today. It is crucial that we continue to challenge the norms and advocate for greater inclusivity.
My story
My story began, like many others in this industry, with an exposure to something that simply resonated with me. In spite of the fact that I grew up near a nuclear power plant, one of the largest employers in my community, it was something I thought I would pursue for the remainder of my life. I have always worked in what some might think is a predominantly male role. However, I was also seeking some sort of social purpose from my work. I could not believe my luck when I was presented with the opportunity to work in the housing sector and then this week my promotion to Assistant Director.
My career journey
My career journey has been filled with many challenges. However, I have been lucky as I have had supportive mentors and encouraging leaders both male and female rooting for me and supporting my professional and personal goals. Progressing my career whilst undertaking cancer treatment was both incredibly liberating and scary all at the same time but it personally provided me with a sense of control that I felt I didn’t have at the time and a determination to keep learning, developing and progressing, looking back now I do wonder how I managed it and I know not everyone is as lucky as me but I am definitely proud of what I achieved during that time.
I think it’s incredibly important to ensure that young women understand how construction, health and safety or an asset management role is a great career choice. We have made huge strives to bridge the gender gap but the women in construction are remain a minority and I will continue to encourage young women to consider this option.
Women in construction
This year’s Women in Construction Week theme – ‘Keys to the Future’ – celebrates the strength and knowledge of women and the vital role they play in shaping the future of the construction industry.
In school I was told I couldn’t do certain roles that “it’s a man’s job” and I was signposted to different career options. Fortunately, I didn’t let this deter me from continuing my passion even now on the odd occasions I can attend meetings and there is an assumption that my male colleagues are more experienced or more technical than I am. These old-fashioned attitudes and gender stereotyping aren’t the only reason why so few women are looking to join the industry. The lack of awareness around opportunities for women in construction is another significant factor and something I truly try and help myth bust and shine a light on.
I am incredibly thankful for my amazing and supportive team, and the contractors we at Johnnie Johnson Housing work with, who continue to support me and supporting international woman’s day.
You can find me on LinkedIn if you would like to connect.