The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has announced that Kayleigh Merritt – Winvic Construction Ltd’s Talent Development Manager – has been shortlisted for the Top 100 Influential Women in Construction Awards 2024. The category that she has been nominated for – Local Hero – recognises women that are working at an operational or site level in construction.
Now in their third year, the awards showcase the influential women that work in construction, making female and non-binary role models more visible and accessible to inspire others, and demonstrating that the sector is open to everyone. The final Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction will be unveiled at the 2024 Women in Construction Awards on 30 September hosted by National Federation of Builders in Birmingham.
Kayleigh has continually elevated efforts in promoting jobs and training to all during her six years working at Winvic, but particularly by utilising the power of female roles models to increase female representation. She works in collaboration with Winvic’s social value team to identify opportunities in project areas and often presents in schools, talking about modern construction culture, site experiences and exciting roles, alongside Winvic team members.
With students’ needs always the priority, her close working with colleges revealed that those studying a construction discipline would benefit from greater depth of information; Kayleigh therefore devised the award-winning Winvic Enrichment Programme (WEP) comprising 5 days of on-site sessions delivered by the team and subcontractors to showcase roles, skillsets, technology and teach CV-writing and interview skills.
Kayleigh’s passion to drive more on-site interactions – though the WEP, site visits and facilitating placements for students at all levels and qualifications – are facilitating more informed career decision-making and helping to create the next generation of industry experts.
Talent Development Manager at Winvic, Kayleigh Merritt, commented: “I’m humbled that I could be considered as one of the top 100 influential women in construction; it really is an honour and a surprise to be announced on the shortlist. I’m incredibly proud of the things I have achieved with Winvic and the partnerships and programmes we have in place are a testament to the business’ commitment to talent development. Whether I make the final 100 or not, I will continue to look for new opportunities to engage young people, address incorrect perceptions about working on-site and ensure both males and females understand the breadth and depth of the exciting construction roles that are available.”
Deborah Madden, Engagement Director for England at CITB, said: “We are thrilled to recognise the incredible women and allies who are driving real change in the construction industry. Celebrating their achievements with the Top 100 Women in Construction honours not only their hard work but also inspires others and future generations. Together, we’re showcasing what’s possible for women in construction today and encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in this field. The Women in Construction awards highlight those leading our industry and those actively supporting a more diverse sector through their dedication and advocacy.”
For more information on Winvic, the company’s latest project news and job vacancies please visit www.winvic.co.uk. Join Winvic on social media – visit X (formerly Twitter) @WinvicLtd – and LinkedIn.