I was crowned the Gold Winner of the Women in Construction Award at the National Building & Construction Awards 2023, held at the Hilton Wembley earlier this month. For me, this isn’t just the win of the trophy; it’s a rebellious shout in an industry that underestimated us. To everyone who questioned the status quo with me – as we all know this is a male dominated industry, this one’s for you ladies. Let’s turn every ‘you can’t’ into a ‘watch me.’

The award acknowledges not only my accomplishments but also the broader significance of diversity in construction. By celebrating women who excel in a variety of roles within the sector, the Women in Construction Award promotes inclusivity and sets a precedent for future generations. It serves as a beacon, highlighting the importance of recognizing and fostering talent irrespective of gender. The judges said “Kelly radiates energy and passion, serving as a fantastic role model for all. Kelly exemplifies resilience and commitment, notably in an industry where women have been historically underrepresented. Her track record of overcoming challenges and leading the way made her undoubtedly the winner.”