International Women's Day is a global day held each year on the 8th of March to celebrate women's social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality.
This year's International Women's Day theme is Inspire Inclusion – celebrating diversity and empowerment to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create environments where all women are valued and respected.
In this blog, we hear from Chloe, a Project Manager working within Construction at Rugby Borough Council, about her career journey to date, advice she would give to her younger self, and what it's like as a female forging a career in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
Chloe, Project Manager - ConstructionRugby Borough Council |
Tell us about your career journey to date
I started my journey at Rugby Borough Council as a Business Administration Apprentice in 2014. My apprenticeship enabled me to move around departments to understand different areas of the council and develop my skills, whilst gaining many connections across the authority.
Following my apprenticeship, I secured a fixed-term role as a Project Assistant, moving up to a permanent Project Officer role before gaining a career-graded role as Programme Lead. This led to where I am today – Project Manager.
What inspired you to choose this career pathway?
I was fortunate enough that this path naturally fell my way after my apprenticeship. However, my Grandfather was a Project Manager in the construction industry in the 1970s, so I'd like to say he was my inspiration - it must be in my blood!
What made you consider local government?
The benefits of working for local government - pension, leave, and security.
What's the best thing about your job?
The team I work alongside, the people I get to meet, and every day is different.
What are the most important skills in your job?
Organisation, communication, time and risk management.
Working in a traditionally male-dominated sector, have you faced any challenges or barriers, and if so, how did you overcome them?
I have been lucky to face minimal challenges during my career.
There have been a couple of occasions where a male figure has presumed I wasn't in a managerial role, but you can't let that phase you! Times are changing.
The theme for this year's International Women's Day is Inspire Inclusion; what does this mean to you?
Include everyone – we all have a voice and can add so much value to any situation.
How is Rugby Borough Council an inclusive employer?
The quantity of senior roles at Rugby Borough Council that are filled by females is inspiring.
What is your proudest achievement in your career?
Can there be two?! I am proud to have gained a First Class Honours degree in Construction Management – a male-dominated degree and subsequent career choice. Then, I am proud of the job role that I am in currently.
Looking back, is there any career advice you would give your younger self?
Find your network. It will be hard work, but you will thrive!
Take a look at our current vacancies within Rugby Borough Council, here.
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