Women in Construction Week 2022

“I did always want to be a building surveyor, but I didn’t want to continue with full time education, so I started in estate agency and undertook property valuation qualifications. I was lucky enough to be offered a Building Surveyor apprenticeship for a large surveying firm in Norfolk but at that same time I found out I was pregnant with my daughter and the offer was rescinded, despite wanting to return to work after having her. I stayed in property and then moved into construction with a large new home developer which really helped hone my technical and regulations knowledge but in the back of my mind I knew I needed to do some formal training. I had my second child, and my education took a back seat for a few years until I relocated to Suffolk. 

 

I had developed a good relationship with members of East Suffolk Building Control in my previous role in property management and maintenance and so when a Trainee Building Control Surveyor role came up, I took the leap and applied, not expecting any response. I presumed they would be looking for a graduate with a Surveying or Construction Management degree. To my delight I was offered the role and have been wholeheartedly supported from day one. Every member of the team has taken time to train, develop and mentor me in every aspect of the role. There are so many great parts to the job from seeing amazing projects come to life, problem solving and relationship building: it really is a case of the more you put into it the more you get out!

 

Working in Local Authority with flexible hours fits the responsibilities of a working mum perfectly: I have never had to miss a school play or rugby match, and I don’t panic if one of the children is unwell as I know I can work from home."