Lauren O’Shea is a SHEQ advisor and has been with Ardmac since 2021.
Years working in your current role:
Almost 3 years (1.5 trainee and then progressed to SHEQ Advisor)
Where are you from & now based:
Waterford, Ireland – Based in Belgium.
Best advice you’ve received to date, why and from whom?
Keep doing you, stand your ground and own it.
Your advice to women considering a career in the construction industry?
Go for it – the construction industry is very broad. There’s a place for everyone, in all positions.
What’s the biggest change you think would benefit women in the industry?
If the word continues to spread. More and more women are joining the industry and to be sure that continues, it is down to the industry itself to promote and welcome more women into the construction world. Businesses should talk more about the positions and opportunities that are available. More young people should be aware of the industry evolving.
What projects are you most excited by?
I love the challenging and complex projects. I love seeing projects go from nothing into something in a safe way.
How does your company support equality and diversity?
Ardmac supports equality and diversity by giving both men and women the opportunity to lead departments and projects.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love making a difference, I go home happy when I know people have worked safe and returned home to their families. I love problem solving and giving solutions to enhance a safe working environment.
How does Ardmac support you in your career?
Ardmac are supporting me with progressing my studies as I am currently studying a diploma in Health and Safety.
Do you think there are challenges associated with being a woman in construction?
Yes I do. I feel there is still a stigma around women working in construction as it predominately a male dominant industry. I do think this has evolved over the years but there is some room for improvement from a senior management level to a site level. At Ardmac we continue to break down the stigma as there any many women working in various roles.
