The UK’s largest built environment event, UK Construction Week, has announced a new format for its popular and prestigious Role Models campaign, which shines a spotlight on the construction industry’s unsung heroes and professionals.
For the first time in its seven-year history, there will be not one but three categories:
- Rising Star for Apprentices – An emerging talent showing exceptional promise and dedication, poised to make significant contributions and shape the future of their field
- Pioneer – A trailblazer who leads the way, introducing innovative methodologies; someone who drives progress in their field and embodies courage, vision, and determination
- Icon – An individual who has achieved a renowned reputation through their lasting influence, excellence, and significant contributions in their industry, inspiring others
Entries are now open, with the shortlist to be announced at UKCW London (7-9 May) 2024, and the winner crowned at UKCW Birmingham (1-3 October).
The Role Models campaign is open to anyone who works in the sector, including architecture, engineering, construction technology and property development, and is aimed at inspiring others to share their stories and career journeys.
The three category winners will not only receive a mentoring prize but gain invaluable exposure to over 22,000 industry professionals and experts through UK Construction Week’s social and marketing platforms.
Sam Patel, UKCW Divisional Director, commented: “This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your unique skills, achievements, and innovative approaches, positioning yourself as a trailblazer and thought leader in the construction sector.
“What’s more, the Role Models awards can inspire others within the industry and open doors to exciting new opportunities. Every year, the judges are wowed by the inspirational stories and we’re sure this year will be no different.”
Last year’s UKCW Role Model winner was Barbara Akinkunmi, Founder of Girls Under Construction, which was founded in 2021 to bridge the gap for young diverse women pursuing construction and built environment careers.
Barbara commented: “UK Construction Week has given me a platform to get myself out there and be a representation for young diverse women that are currently killing it in the industry.”
Other previous UKCW Role Model winners include: Arleta Andreasik-Paton, Associate Project Manager at Ridge and Partners (2018), Anjali Pindoria, Project Surveyor at Avi Contracts Ltd (2019), Christina Leia Riley, Senior Planner at Quinn London Ltd (2020) and Andy Howe, Managing Director at CareerForces Ltd (2022 ).
