Gail Culshaw discusses the challenges facing women in construction with Design and Build UK

It’s no secret that the construction sector in the UK is dominated by male employees, with only 11% of the industry’s workforce being female.

Gail Culshaw, a very talented project manager at Priestley Construction, believes that narrowing this divide is key to improving construction success nationwide.
She was thrilled to be involved in Design and Build UK’s latest editorial focus, women in construction.

When discussing the lack of women in her chosen industry, Gail said: “I feel more can be done to ensure that young girls are given the encouragement and pathway to be successful in construction. There remains a perception that women have to be twice as good as men to be seen as equals – this is certainly something that we have to overcome, especially when working on-site.”

After starting out as an office manager, Gail soon developed a passion for construction but has often faced obstacles because of her gender.

According to Gail, Priestley Construction understands the value of having women in the workforce, and so she actively seeks opportunities to spread this message. Gail said: “I am a member of various groups and attend many events where I get the Priestley Construction name out there as an employer that welcomes and supports women into the industry.”

This year, Gail is overseeing two of Priestley Construction’s landmark schemes in Bradford, working towards her CIOB accreditation and striving for senior management status.

Given the current skills shortage, it would be advantageous for companies to do more to attract women into the sector – Gail’s story is a great example of how hard work pays off regardless of gender.

Gail’s full interview is available in the April edition of Design and Build UK magazine.

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