According to the Office for National Statistics, just 15% of professionals working in the UK construction industry are women. To mark Women in Construction Week 2025, we’re shining the spotlight on some of the women who make up team Thompsons, and asking them to share their experience of working in the industry.
Lucy Bolton, Solar Manager
“I’ve been part of the team for 11 months. I’m responsible for managing all aspects of solar projects from initial design through to installation and monitoring.
I’ve been in this industry for 13 years and I love it because I’m constantly learning new things. Thompsons is a great place to work, because it has a small business feel with a relaxed working environment and lots of interesting projects.
I would highly recommend a career in construction as it’s a varied industry with lots of opportunities to develop professionally. No two projects are the same, and there’s always something new to learn and chances for progression.
When I first started work in construction, I was nervous as it was known to be a male dominant industry, however I’ve seen over the years that isn’t always the case. I wouldn’t want women and girls to be put off by certain barriers or the idea that ‘construction isn’t for girls’ but that’s something we can hopefully continue to overcome and show that this industry should be and can be for anyone.”
Jane Lock, Accounts Department
“I’ve worked at Thompsons for ten years.
The processing of materials and hires invoices, the processing of monthly payment runs and dealing with invoice queries.
I have worked at Thompsons for many years, it’s a friendly, family-run company which looks after its employees. As a working mum to a seven-year-old daughter they have agreed my hours are flexible and I can work from home part of the week – which works well around school.
I am on the office side, so don’t go on site (maybe one day?!). However, it’s great to see what the invoices I process turn into, and fortunately we accessed this recently on a time-lapse video showing the works at Old Trafford, which was really impressive.
The industry definitely needs more women and things are changing, so go for it and make a difference. It’s a job that can be flexible and work around the busy mum life!”
Jenn McLean, Health and Safety Manager
“In April I’ll have been at Thompsons for seven years.
As Health and Safety Manager, I’m responsible for enhancing Thompson’s health and safety standards and ensuring that the company is HSE compliant. This includes conducting inspections of project sites, ensuring proper control measures are in place, and conducting thorough investigations of incidents/accidents, while implementing a lesson learned approach. I also oversee the coordination of training requirements, ensuring that site personnel have the correct qualifications and arrange the company’s CITB training funding and applications.
My role as Health and Safety within construction has its challenges, however it’s a good feeling knowing my work helps to keep people safe. Working at Thompsons, there’s a good working environment, the projects are fast paced and the job roles definitely keeps me on my toes. There are also opportunities to progress within the company.
Having over 20 years of experience in various sectors within the construction industry, the sector has improved and there are more roles suitable for women than ever before. I would say that if it’s an industry you are interested in, then go for it!”
Nat Taylor, Senior Quantity Surveyor
“I’ve been at Thompsons for three years.
As Senior Quantity Surveyor, I oversee the commercial aspects of allocated projects. This includes cost reporting and risk management, subcontractor negotiation, preparing payment notices and valuations/final accounts.
I’ve always been interested in construction as I was put through my joinery apprenticeship whilst working for my dad’s building company when I was younger. I enjoy working with Thompsons because you are appreciated for your hard work and we have supportive managers if you do have any issues.
My advice would be to someone starting out as a QS is to understand the practical side of construction. Attend sites regularly if you can so you can see how things are built, rather than studying from drawings/books.”
