Alongside Women in Construction Week, we are also celebrating our 11th birthday here at Temple. Sitting down to discuss #WICWEEK2026, how the industry has changed, motivation, challenges and equality with our MD Claire Griffin.
Claire has been in the industry for 25 years and has seen a lot of progressive change during that time. It is now much more commonplace to see a female tradesperson or site manager, the intimidating site atmosphere with wolf whistles and catcalls is now thankfully well on its way to being eradicated.
‘I am so proud of what I have achieved so far, the company that I have created alongside the office team and everyone we work with out on site. I’m highly motivated to see how much we have grown and will continue to grow. The desire to stand on your own — financially, emotionally, and professionally — is a strong driver. Building your own stability creates freedom and further opportunities, for myself my children, my business and all who work for me.
As a female MD in construction, it’s important to me that we win business because we are good at what we do, and we gain respect for being knowledgeable and trustworthy. When women step into leadership roles in construction, they do more than manage projects or run companies. They visibly challenge long-standing stereotypes about who “belongs” on a job site or in a boardroom. It gives other women proof that there is space for them in an industry that has traditionally been male dominated.
Representation creates possibility. When women see other women operating heavy equipment, leading teams, owning companies, or speaking at industry events, it shifts what feels achievable. Strong female leaders also change workplace culture. They advocate for safer environments, equal opportunities, mentorship programs, and inclusive hiring practices. Their leadership often opens doors that were previously closed — not only for women, but for everyone. In construction especially, where mentorship and hands-on learning are critical, having experienced women guide the next generation builds confidence and competence. It sends a clear message: skill, leadership, and resilience are not defined by gender.
In my role, operating in two traditionally male-dominated sectors; construction and business executive, I cannot emphasise enough the importance of education and encouragement. Women in construction week alongside the recent national apprenticeship week incentivise and encourage, showing both females and males what is possible.
Many women on site say the hardest part isn’t the physical work — it’s the constant pressure to represent “all women” or not be allowed an off day without it being generalized. The increase in female Site Management can help to provide a supportive site culture judged on skill, with all treated professionally and aiming to ensure banter stays respectful. The increasing presence of women on site can also help with the issues around subtle bias; having to “prove yourself” more, being double-checked more often, assumptions about strength or competence, and the more overt issues of inappropriate comments, exclusion, or not being taken seriously.
Looking forward to our next 11+ years, my personal aims are for continued business development, and the next generation of female and male construction workers coming together to create an inclusive and encouraging work atmosphere!
#womeninconstructionweek #WICWEEK2026 #levelupbuildstrong
