Listening on site: What we learned from students about women in construction

We Build Too is being built to empower women, but it is shaped by everyone. That’s why, during a recent workshop at Gateshead College, we spoke to 10 construction students about what it’s really like entering the industry today.

The students are in year 2 of PlanBEE, a higher-level apprenticeship programme designed to prepare young people for careers in the built environment, combining study and site experience. Of the 10 students who took part, 4 were women.

What emerged was a candid and thoughtful conversation about bias, support, and opportunity, and how gender plays a role alongside age, experience, and visibility.

Being “seen” but not “heard”

Several students, particularly the women, talked about feeling underestimated early in their careers. While young male apprentices sometimes face similar treatment because of their age, the women described an added layer of gender bias.

Some people still don't understand that women are there to do a job; not look pretty and feed your ego on a building site.

Young women, already navigating the usual apprentice challenges, often find themselves having to ask for keys to access the toilets, which some described as infantilising. It’s a small detail, but one that sends a clear message: you’re not fully included yet.

Facilities still falling short

We heard consistent frustration about the lack of appropriate facilities for women on site. While there’s been progress in some areas, many sites still don’t provide equal access, and when they do, it’s often an afterthought.

The result is othering in everyday experiences such as getting changed for the job, using the bathroom or asking for help. 

It’s not just inconvenient - it’s isolating. Especially for young apprentices still finding their feet, these missing basics can quietly erode confidence and a sense of belonging. 

Mentorship builds confidence and belonging

What students really valued was access to mentorship and one-on-one support. Not because they felt unskilled or underprepared, but because they know the value of learning from someone who’s been there.

This wasn’t just a need raised by women. All students spoke positively about having access to approachable, experienced role models they could turn to for guidance, especially when trying to navigate new or difficult situations on site.

Community and real conversations matter

One theme that came across strongly from the group was the importance of community. Students wanted more opportunities to connect, share experiences, and speak honestly about life in construction.

They called for more informal spaces to network, build friendships, and learn from one another. Not just structured sessions, but the kind of informal support that helps people feel part of something bigger.

And yet, there is opportunity ahead

Amid these challenges, there was also optimism.

Students recognised the high demand for people in construction and the scope for progression, travel, and impact. The women, in particular, were excited to make a difference and be part of a growing shift in the industry.

What does this mean for We Build Too?

This session reminded us that change doesn’t always come in the form of big gestures, but instead often starts with basic signals of respect, fairness, and inclusion.

Their feedback strengthens our belief that inclusion must be built into the foundations of the industry, not tacked on as an afterthought.

These lived experiences are directly shaping We Build Too.

If you're an educator, employer, or policymaker interested in creating a fairer future for women in construction, let’s talk.

hello@webuildtoo.com 

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