With women currently making up less than 10% of the workforce in the construction industry, we spoke to our latest recruit Radka Tolson, about her training and career to date, and her thoughts about the role women play within the field of construction.

Q. What inspired you to pursue a career in the construction industry?
A. Ever since I was a little girl, I have always enjoyed maths. My dad was an estimator at a construction company, and he encouraged me to go to University. I studied for a Masters Degree in Applied Economics, specialising in Construction. I started my career at Wm Langshaw & Son, who built schools and repaired churches, moving on to Interserve Construction, where I was excited to be part of multi-million pound building projects, and latterly for McDermott Homes, with housing development schemes of up to 240 plots.

Q. Explain your reasons for joining Create Homes, and what you are looking forward to in your new role?
A. After almost 9 years within housebuilding, it was appealing to accept this new challenge, and use my commercial experience and knowledge with Create Homes. I was looking for a friendly team, and was amazed by the quality product offered to our customers.

Q. What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your career as a Quantity Surveyor, and what keeps you motivated in this field? 
A. I love handing over the final product to customers who are pleased with what they have received. Pride plays a big part in my role when everything is delivered to their satisfaction.

Q. How do you see the role of technology and innovation shaping the future of your role, and in the construction industry in general? 
A. Technology and innovation form a massive part in construction industry, and are part of its continuing evolution. New technologies help to reduce construction time, and can influence performance of materials to better serve their purpose. Times are long gone when a surveyor had to measure from drawings. We use sophisticated software, which massively reduces the time spent. There are also improved budgeting tools, allowing costs to be monitored much more efficiently. 

Q. Can you share a short story about a mentor or role model who has been particularly influential in your career? 
A. When I first started working, I was mentored by a close team member who took me under his wing. Until then, everything was just a theory from a book, not a real working experience. He spent hours showing me the correct principles & ethics, and for that I will always be grateful. 

Q. What message would you like to share with other women in the construction industry during Women in Construction Week?
A. I do not feel that the construction industry is perceived as male dominated field any longer. It is all about inclusion, and it being a positive environment for both men and women. 

Q. What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the construction industry? 
A. Don’t be afraid to pursue what you enjoy! 

Pictured: Radka outside a new home in progress at The Groves, Bispham