Women currently account for around 16% of the overall construction workforce in the UK* – a noticeable improvement from around 11% a decade ago. While progress is being made, the industry continues to work towards greater gender balance, particularly in on-site roles where the workforce remains predominantly male.
While on-site roles remain male-dominated, increasing female representation is visible within the wider project support and pre-construction framework, where talented women are playing an essential role in delivering complex infrastructure schemes across the region.
That’s certainly the case at Howard Civil Engineering: as part of Women in Construction Week, we’re proud to spotlight two members of the HCE team – Holly Moore and Hayley Ashton – who are building rewarding careers in the sector and helping to shape its future.
Holly Moore – On-Site Project Coordinator
Holly’s route into construction began in recruitment, where she spent two years specialising in the industry. She then moved into contracts administration with a building services engineering company, a role she held for six and a half years before joining Howard Civil Engineering (HCE) as an On-Site Project Coordinator.
Her position is pivotal to the smooth running of major schemes. Holly manages key administrative responsibilities including site inductions, recording hours, ordering PPE, tracking CSCS cards and tickets, overseeing Good Received Notices (GRNs), and updating clients and contractors with site reports.
Holly’s remit also extends into sustainability, an increasingly important focus across the construction industry. Holly carries out all carbon reporting for HCE’s Skelton Grange and Knostrop sites, ensuring environmental performance is accurately monitored and recorded. In addition, she updates drawing registers, logs samples, files test results, and manages site fuel and AdBlue orders.
Holly says:
“I felt welcome from day one at HCE. It’s a forward‑thinking company where I’ve always felt supported and treated fairly. Building a career in construction as a woman is challenging in the best way, and it’s an industry I genuinely enjoy being part of.
Although on‑site teams are still predominantly male, I’m encouraged by the growing number of women in technical roles across our projects. We’re seeing opportunities today that simply weren’t common 20 years ago. for example, I regularly collaborate with a female Geotechnical Engineer from one of our subcontractors. It’s inspiring to see that change happening.”
Her experience reflects a broader shift within the industry – with more women entering technical and project support roles that are vital to successful project delivery.
Hayley Ashton – Pre-Construction Apprentice
Joining Howard Civil Engineering in August 2024 as a Pre-Construction Apprentice, Hayley Ashton has made an outstanding start to her career.
Having recently completed her Level 4 Construction Quantity Surveying Technician qualification at Leeds College of Building, she is now preparing to progress to degree-level study. Within the pre-construction team, Hayley carries out estimating for various HCE sites across the region, contributing directly to the early-stage planning and financial management of projects.
Hayley has embraced the opportunity to combine academic study with hands-on industry experience, bringing enthusiasm, fresh thinking and curiosity to the team. Her dedication was recognised last year when she won Student of the Year at HCE’s Development Awards, which celebrate outstanding apprentices across the business.
Hayley says:
“My dad worked in construction, also as an Estimator, and he encouraged me to consider the industry. I’m really glad I made the decision to go into construction and HCE is a great company for young women to develop a career. I am new to the industry so I can’t speak with a lot of experience about how female representation has changed, but I have studied alongside a lot of other women apprentices preparing for a career in the industry.”
Her journey highlights the growing number of young women choosing construction pathways, particularly through apprenticeship and technical qualification routes.
Looking Ahead
Stories like Holly’s and Hayley’s demonstrate the significant strides being made across project support, pre-construction, commercial and technical disciplines.
At HCE, there is a clear commitment to creating an inclusive, forward-thinking environment where women can thrive, develop and progress. By supporting apprenticeships, championing technical careers and fostering a culture built on respect and opportunity, HCE is helping to reshape perceptions of the industry.
For construction to continue evolving, it must actively attract and retain female talent at every level. Encouraging more women into engineering, commercial and operational roles will help unlock a wider talent pool and further strengthen the industry.
Women in Construction Week provides an opportunity to celebrate progress, but more importantly, to reaffirm the sector’s commitment to building a workforce that truly reflects the communities it serves.
At Howard Civil Engineering, our projects span highways, infrastructure and complex civil engineering schemes across the region. Alongside this work, we remain closely connected to the communities where our teams live and work — and we believe practical support, when we’re able to offer it, can make a real difference locally.
Earlier this week, members of our team from the Skelton Grange site in Leeds attended St Theresa’s Catholic Primary School in Crossgates (LS15 8RQ) to help address an ongoing issue affecting part of the school grounds.
Addressing a Practical Challenge
A section of the school’s car park had deteriorated over time, becoming uneven and hazardous — particularly during periods of wet weather. The condition of the surface made access to the playground difficult for both staff and pupils and had become an ongoing concern for the school.
The issue was brought to our attention by a member of the HCE team whose children attend the school. After discussing the situation, Managing Director Michael Howard agreed that we could assist in improving the area.
Working with the Headteacher, the resurfacing works were carefully planned to take place during the half-term break, ensuring minimal disruption to school activities.
A Coordinated Effort
HCE provided staff, plant, materials and expertise to complete the resurfacing works at no cost to the school. As with any project we undertake, planning, safety and efficiency remained central to the approach.
By scheduling the works during the holiday period, the improved surface was ready for use as soon as pupils returned — offering safer access and improved usability, particularly in wet conditions.
Praise from the Head Teacher
Soon after the completion of the work, Howard Civil Engineering were delighted to receive a message of thanks from Head Teacher, Jane Ryan:
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Howard Engineering for the outstanding tarmac work completed at our primary school. From start to finish, the team were professional, reliable, and considerate of our school environment.
The work was carried out efficiently and to a very high standard, with minimal disruption to the school. The staff were friendly and respectful taking great care to ensure the area was left clean and safe at the end of each day. The finished tarmac surface has made a huge difference to our road up to school. It is safer, looks fantastic, and we have already had lots of positive comments from staff, parents and children about how lovely it is to walk up the road without dodging potholes.
We are so grateful to Howard Engineering for their very generous offer to complete the work for us. We would not hesitate to recommend Howard Engineering to other schools, companies or organisations looking for high-quality workmanship and a dependable service. Thank you again for helping to improve our school environment.”
Thos words mean a lot to us. They reflect the pride our teams take in delivering work that not only meets technical standards but also has a positive impact on everyday community life.
Rooted in the Community
As a Yorkshire-based business, we recognise that our role extends beyond the schemes we deliver. Schools form an important part of the communities we operate in, supporting families and future generations.
We’re pleased to have been able to assist St Theresa’s in resolving this issue and hope the improvements will benefit staff and pupils for years to come.
To recognise those who are excelling through training, learning, and professional development, Howard Civil Engineering proudly launched the Building Futures Awards in 2025. This new initiative focuses on individuals who are building their careers and professional credentials within our organisation, becoming highly valued members of our team along the way.
The inaugural awards highlighted five remarkable colleagues whose hard work, enthusiasm, and dedication to growth truly stand out.
Daniel Heffernan – Apprentice of the Year (Winner)
Daniel’s commitment to excellence in his Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying has been nothing short of inspiring. Having already achieved outstanding recognition this year — winning both the Commitment to the College Award and the prestigious Principal’s Award at the Leeds College of Building BIG (Building Industry Greats) Awards — Daniel continues to set the benchmark for professionalism and dedication.
Since joining Howard in 2019 and progressing from a Level 4 qualification to his current degree-level studies, Daniel has embodied the company’s values of growth, integrity, and excellence. His willingness to support fellow apprentices, coupled with his drive to continually learn and improve, makes him a truly deserving winner of Apprentice of the Year.
Mikey Cosgrove – Apprentice of the Year (Highly Commended)
Mikey joined us as an Apprentice Engineer and has shown exceptional enthusiasm, technical skill, and a proactive approach to learning throughout his apprenticeship. His hands-on attitude and growing engineering expertise have made him a vital member of the team and an outstanding example of dedication in action.
Earlier this year, Mikey demonstrated his capabilities in managing the countdown to completion of a project at Leeds Bradford Airport. His excellent work ethic, attention to detail, and effective use of Field View allowed us to achieve a defect-free handover of the terminal building and external yard slabs.
Mikey has completed his Level 3 Civil Engineering Technician course and is looking ahead to a bright future with Howard Civil Engineering.
Lucas Lee – Rising Star (Winner)
Lucas has demonstrated impressive progress in his career development after joining us as a Topman, assisting our operatives carrying out earthworks. He has since transitioned to Pipelayer, proving to be equally capable and reliable in his current role. His consistent performance, reliability, and determination on site reflect his commitment to growth and continuous improvement.
Alex Fowler – Rising Star (Highly Commended)
Alex has followed the same pathway as Lucas, starting out as a Topman before moving to Pipelayer. In both roles, he has demonstrated a very strong work ethic and a commitment to personal and professional advancement. His rapid progress and willingness to take on new challenges are a credit to both himself and his team.
Hayley Ashton – Student of the Year
Joining Howard Civil Engineering in August 2024 as a Pre-Construction Apprentice, Hayley has made an excellent start to her career. Currently studying for her Level 4 Construction Quantity Surveying Technician qualification at Leeds College of Building, Hayley has embraced the opportunity to combine academic study with practical industry experience. She brings enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and curiosity to the pre-construction team. Hayley is an exceptionally talented individual with enormous potential, and we’re excited to support her continued growth and long-term progression in the years ahead.
Michael Howard, Managing Director at Howard Civil Engineering, presented our five award winners with a trophy and certificate in recognition of their success. Commenting on the awards, Michael said:
“Our five Building Futures Award winners have achieved outstanding progress early in their careers. We’re proud to shine a light on their passion, skill, determination, and ambition. It was extremely difficult to narrow down our contenders to five winners – I’m pleased to say we have so many colleagues excelling across all areas of our business. Congratulations and thank you to our winners, but also a big thank you to all our other fantastic colleagues who have played such a huge part in the company’s success.”
Our Building Futures Award winners are an inspiration to anyone considering a career in construction. Their success demonstrates the value of providing a strong foundation for the next generation of construction professionals.
On Wednesday 22nd October, our teams came together for two fundraising events in aid of Breast Cancer Now, the UK’s largest breast cancer charity.
Our efforts coincided with Breast Cancer Now’s Wear It Pink Day, one of the biggest fundraising events in the UK. Each October, thousands of people across workplaces, schools, and communities wear pink to raise vital funds for breast cancer research and support. By hosting our events, we were proud to play our part in helping make life-changing breast cancer research and support happen.
The first of the day’s two events was a HCE v Wates Group 5-a-side Football Match. The two companies are used to being on the same team in the delivery of projects, but on this occasion, we were pitted against each other in a competitive but good-natured game at Joseph Norton Academy, Huddersfield. The HCE players sported pink “Stand Up to Cancer” hi-vis vests, showing that even in competition, we stand united for a cause that touches so many lives.
The second charity event was a Sponsored ‘Library to Library’ Walk which took place further north. HCE staff joined other volunteers for two-hour sponsored walk from the British Library to the Boston Spa Library. The fundraising team wore plenty of pink and carried donation buckets to collect contributions throughout the journey. Every step helped to raise funds for Breast Cancer Now, supporting vital research and providing hope for those affected by breast cancer.
Refreshments were provided after both events, providing a well-earned break for everyone involved and an opportunity to reflect on the collective effort made to support such an important cause.
HCE are continuing our fundraising during Breast Cancer Awareness Month – if you’d like to support this vital cause, please donate via our Just Giving page below!
Daniel, who is currently completing his Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying, impressed everyone on the night by not only winning the Commitment to the College Award, but also receiving the highly coveted Principal’s Award – a title reserved for one outstanding apprentice amongst more than 40 award winners.
This is an incredible recognition of Daniel’s hard work and determination since joining Howard Civil Engineering and beginning his journey at LCB in 2019, where he started with a Level 4 qualification in Quantity Surveying before progressing onto higher-level study.
When asked why Daniel had been nominated for the Commitment to the College Award, LCB praised his willingness to go above and beyond:
“Daniel has volunteered his time to come into college lessons and share his fantastic work experience with other QS Apprentices. He has quietly impressed his lecturers with his dedication, insight, and kindness. His behind-the-scenes efforts and humble attitude have made a lasting impact, proving he is truly awesome and deserving of recognition.”
Daniel himself was surprised by the double success, reflecting on his time at LCB:
“LCB has given me confidence in terms of reinforcing what you do at work, but also filling gaps in where the work can’t expose you to certain things. Studying here, you get an appreciation of the industry as a whole.”
Reflecting on the evening, LCB CEO and Principal Nikki Davis, said:
“This really has been a fantastic year for LCB. Our T Level students received exceptional grades, and we’ve been named one of the first ever Construction Technical Excellence Colleges. The BIG Awards are perfectly timed to celebrate all our excellent students and staff, and tomorrow we’re all back in college for the new academic year which we hope is even bigger and better than the last.”
A strong partnership with Leeds College of Building
Howard Civil Engineering has a longstanding partnership with Leeds College of Building, regularly supporting apprentices through their studies and into professional careers. We believe apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways of bringing fresh talent into the industry, combining hands-on learning with academic development.
Daniel’s success is a shining example of how this partnership helps create well-rounded professionals who not only thrive within their workplace but also give back to their peers and the wider industry.
Investing in the future
Ewan Mason, Recruitment Manager at Howard Civil Engineering, said:
“Daniel is one of eleven exceptionally talented apprentices currently developing a career pathway with Howard Civil Engineering. Our commitment to apprenticeships is about building futures, supporting personal growth, and equipping the next generation with the skills they need to succeed in the ever-evolving construction sector. We’re proud to see Daniel recognised on such a prestigious stage and look forward to supporting many more apprentices as they follow in his footsteps.”
Congratulations, Daniel – a truly well-deserved recognition of your talent, hard work, and commitment!
A Fresh Start and a Sense of Belonging
For Rick, joining Foundations for Life meant regaining stability.
“It was a new start in life,” he explained. “From being unemployed to earning a full-time wage – it gives stability for your family. That means a lot.”
Daryl echoed this, emphasising the significance of being trusted with a second chance:
“I never thought I’d be given this chance coming out of prison. But I feel like I’m going somewhere here.”
Pathways Through Training and Support
Both Rick and Daryl joined Howard Civil Engineering through Construction Skills People, an organisation that helps jobseekers secure the qualifications they need, with tickets awarded for each completed training module. Rick was referred via his work coach at the Job Centre, while Daryl was encouraged by his probation officer.
The training boot camp proved to be a critical stepping stone. Rick gained his Gateman ticket, while Daryl secured his Health & Safety certification, CSCS card, dumper and traffic management qualifications.
“If it wasn’t for the course, I wouldn’t be here,” Daryl admitted.
After completing their training, Rick and Daryl quickly found themselves embedded in site life at Howard Civil Engineering, taking up roles at one of our largest projects: the Skelton Infrastructure & Earthworks in Leeds.
Life on Site
The most striking part of their journey has been the warm welcome and camaraderie they have discovered on site.
Rick described the culture as “unreal,” adding:
“Every single person on site is helpful, which is rare. Everyone’s friendly, they have a laugh but, at the end of the day, they’re professional and know exactly what they’re doing. People are there to guide you and show you what needs to be done, but you’re not micromanaged – once you’re on site, you crack on and do your thing. It’s all very professional and well organised.”
Daryl, who has thrived both physically and socially since joining, agreed:
“It’s the best site I’ve ever been on. Everyone is here to help. Being here has done me good. It’s brought me out of my shell and I’ve lost a lot of weight, doing my twenty thousand steps a day. I’ve also started swimming.”
Their efforts have already been recognised, with both receiving positive feedback from colleagues and managers. Their proactivity and desire for progression have been exemplary.
Growth, Inspiration and Future Goals
Being part of a professional, supportive team has given both Rick and Daryl fresh ambitions. Rick has been inspired by the skill and expertise of experienced colleagues:
“I’ve been impressed with how good Howard’s people are at their jobs. There are people driving machines that have been doing it thirty-odd years. They’re really good operators – I’ve seen some moves in these 360 excavators that have been unbelievable! It’s something that you look up to as something you could do yourself. It makes you want to learn from these guys and get the next ticket.”
Both now have their eyes set on building further skills. Rick is aiming for roller, 360 and bulldozer tickets, while Daryl is determined to take it “one ticket at a time” and progress as far as he can within the company.
Words of Advice
Looking back at where they started, both men are keen to encourage others who may be facing similar challenges. Rick’s message is one of perseverance:
“Don’t get disheartened. Stick at it. If you want to change your life, just go for it.”
Daryl, meanwhile, stressed the importance of honesty for prison leavers looking to turn the page to a new chapter:
“Don’t be nervous. Just be honest. I could have told lies in my interview, but I was upfront and it’s worked out.”
Building Futures for All
Foundations for Life has provided a welcome opportunity for Rick and Daryl, but the programme has also benefited Howard Civil Engineering as an employer, recruiting two outstanding individuals with a passion for the industry and a dedication to our mission of quality-led delivery.
Ewan Mason, Recruitment Manager at Howard Civil Engineering, was full of praise for their efforts and the value of Foundations for Life in supporting the construction workforce. Ewan said:
“Rick and Daryl are shining examples of what can be achieved when an employer believes in and invests in people who have been through challenging times but have a hunger to change things for the better. Connecting them with training programmes like Construction Skills People provides the foothold that they need to establish a career in construction. The industry is facing its own challenges with significant skills shortages, but programmes like Foundations for Life enable employers to nurture talent and realise potential which would otherwise remain untapped. Howard Civil Engineering are very grateful to have Rick and Daryl in our site teams and we are very excited to see their continued progression in the coming years.”
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