1. Hear from the women building strong communities, careers, and futures.

     

    In celebration of Women in Construction Week, the Portakabin Women’s Network spoke with a number of inspiring women across Portakabin, who truly embody this year’s theme: ‘Level UP, Build Strong Communities | Careers | Futures.’ 

    The Women’s Network team sat down with Sophie Luff, Procurement Manager, Phoebe Alletson, Electrical Apprentice and Moya Bradley, HSE Business Partner, to reflect on their careers in construction and explore their experiences through the lens of what it means to ‘Level Up’ and build strong foundations for the future. 

  2. Level Up: Tell us about a moment in your career where you felt yourself “level up”, whether that’s a skill you mastered, a challenge you overcame, or a milestone you hit? 

     

    Sophie: “One of the moments I truly felt myself ‘level up’ was when I started my Level 4 CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply) qualification back in November 2024. Balancing full-time work and motherhood was a real challenge, however with the incredible support of my manager and team I was able to complete my qualification. This gave me a huge sense of achievement, even when I felt like giving up! 

    “This has shown me that with focus and determination, I can grow my professional skills even while juggling multiple responsibilities. I am now just one module off getting my Diploma in May!” 

    Phoebe: “When I began my journey as an Electrical Apprentice, it was a real turning point for me. I was able to level up both professionally and personally, giving me the skills, confidence and a strong foundation I needed to shape my future career in construction.” 

    Moya: “Over the course of nearly four years with Portakabin, I have had the opportunity to contribute to some of Ireland’s most high-profile projects, including a 130-unit triple stacked building for a pharmaceutical company. These largescale pharmaceutical projects demanded exceptional standards in health and safety, documentation, and lifting procedures, placing a strong emphasis on precision and accountability. 

    “I have frequently represented Portakabin in client board meetings alongside other health and safety professionals. Despite the pressure (and trembling leg), I consistently held my own, demonstrating strong technical understanding, preparedness, and professional composure.  

    “I am currently preparing to sit my CPCS Appointed Person for Cranes certification next month, a challenging qualification but one that aligns with my commitment to continuous improvement. I am eager to keep developing my expertise within the construction industry and contribute at an even higher level.” 

     

  3. Build Strong: What helps you stay strong in this industry, whether that’s mindset, community, mentors or personal habits? 

     

    Phoebe: “It’s easy to stay strong when you’ve got a good team around you. The guys I work with on the yard have been great, and don’t treat me any differently to anyone else.” 

    Moya: “I believe that succeeding in the construction industry requires a resilient and adaptable mindset, one that balances determination with the ability to stay calm under pressure and make sound decisions. I am also fortunate to have had several brilliant mentors over the past four years, people whose work ethic, leadership style, and consistent standards have shaped my own professional development.” 

    Sophie: “What helps me stay strong in this industry is a mix of mindset and support. I always give 100% to any task and focus on growing my skills and confidence. I love listening and learning from my colleagues and mentors across the business, especially other women in construction.” 

  4. What advice would you give to women entering the construction or built environment sector today? 

     

    Moya: “To any woman considering construction: you belong here. Choose workplaces that are transparent and genuinely inclusive, those are the environments where women thrive. Research shows that fair recruitment and supportive cultures make a meaningful difference for women starting out in construction and that strong role models and networks help women grow with confidence. 

    “I would encourage anyone to step forward with confidence, ask questions, find mentors early, and don’t be afraid to take up space, you have every right to be here, and the industry is better for it.” 

    Sophie: “Have trust in your abilities and don’t be afraid to speak up. Construction can feel intimidating at first, but I can say whole-heartedly that the industry has been the best I have ever worked in. Find mentors, other like-minded women in the industry and as long as you’re putting in 100%, you’re doing it right.” 

    Phoebe: “Don’t treat it any differently to other sectors. Be yourself, get stuck in and enjoy it!” 

  5. How do you think we can build a stronger, more inclusive construction industry for future women? 

     

    Phoebe: “I think it’s already a very inclusive industry, but women shouldn’t be put off because of traditional stereotypes. If you’re good at your job, work hard, and get along with the people around you, this industry isn’t any different. The more women think trades aren’t inclusive, the longer it will take for the industry to move past that mindset.” 

    Moya: “We can build a stronger, more inclusive construction industry for women by starting early with education and exposure. Creating workplaces that are safe, flexible and genuinely welcoming will ensure that women can see real pathways to leadership. 

    “I’ve been fortunate to experience this firsthand over the past four years at Portakabin. Driving culture change, providing mentorship and development, providing inclusive facilities and PPE, and celebrating diverse role models all play a part. With supportive policies, active allyship, and a true commitment to equality, we can build an industry where women not only join but thrive and lead.”  

    Sophie: “The launch of the Women’s Network at Portakabin is a strong start to building a more inclusive space for women in construction. To take it further, we need to continue to amplify female voices, create more visible female role models, and continue to foster a culture where everyone feels valued. These steps help make the industry more inclusive and progressive for the next generation.” 

     

  6. Women in Construction Week takes place 1-7 March 2026, keep an eye on our LinkedIn for more interviews about careers in construction with other inspiring women across the business. 

    Find out more about careers with Portakabin and view our vacancies.