Critical Careers - Women Building Careers in Digital Infrastructure - Book - Page 31
“[Sport] builds resilience,
encourages teamwork
and creates a mindset
that is comfortable with
pace and pressure.”
Has there been a moment that made you
feel like you truly belonged in this industry
and why did that stand out to you?
Moving into Mace Construct was a key moment for me. My time in Mace
Consult was very positive, but I knew I needed a faster pace and more exposure
to the work on site. Once I made that move, things started to feel more natural.
A signi昀椀cant part of that was the team I joined, particularly my line manager.
Although it was her 昀椀rst time managing someone, she invested a huge amount
of time in my development. I came into the role with a master’s degree, but my
practical understanding of the industry was still very limited. Having someone
willing to support that learning made a real difference.
How has sport shaped the way you think
about work and teams?
She quickly became a role model for me. She set a strong example in how she
communicates, how she manages relationships and how she carries herself
professionally. Seeing her operating at that level made progression feel
tangible. It gave me a clear sense of what I could work towards.
Sport has had a strong in昀氀uence on how I approach work. Rugby, in
particular, highlights the importance of different strengths coming
together to achieve a shared goal. Every player has a speci昀椀c role, and
success depends on how those roles work together.
Another important moment for me was being invited to represent early-career
professionals on a panel at the Construct Leadership Away Day, attended by
Mace Construct’s top 60 leaders. The session focused on challenging perceptions
of early careers and how we attract the next generation into the industry. It gave
me the opportunity to engage directly with senior women across the business
who are leading by example. Seeing that representation at the highest levels,
and having open, honest conversations with them, reinforced that I belong in this
industry and that my voice can help shape its future, not just grow within it.
That translates directly into construction. Projects bring together people
from different disciplines, each with their own expertise and priorities.
The outcome depends on how effectively those individuals collaborate.
On a personal level, sport has also shaped how I approach challenges.
It builds resilience, encourages teamwork and creates a mindset that is
comfortable with pace and pressure. Those qualities have been valuable
in adapting to a fast-moving industry and developing within it.
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