Sizewell C is reshaping the future of construction, engineering and energy by putting women at the heart of its workforce – creating opportunities, challenging perceptions and building a more inclusive industry.
Helping to drive this transformation is the project’s Women in Construction Group. Launched last year, it has quickly become a cornerstone of site culture, bringing women together to champion inclusion, support growth and inspire change.
Now around 170 members strong, the network is already making an impact. Workshops and events are supporting development, while its inaugural jobs fair in Leiston in April – featuring 35 supply chain partners – attracted more than 300 attendees.
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This progress is underpinned by a broader commitment to representation, with women making up 63% of Sizewell C’s executive leadership, and a target of 50% female participation in its apprenticeship programme.
“The Women in Construction network is not just about supporting individuals – it is helping to address a broader industry challenge,” said Hayley Critchley, head of site compliance at Sizewell C and chair of the Women in Construction Community Group.
“With women still underrepresented in construction, the Sizewell C community is ‘being the change’ by actively contributing to changing perceptions and opening pathways.”
The need for change across the industry remains significant. Women currently make up just 15% of the UK construction workforce, while an additional 251,500 workers will be needed by 2028 to meet demand.
Sizewell C is determined to be part of the solution – not only through its on-site culture, but also through outreach.
For example, the Civil Works Alliance (CWA) – a partnership between Sizewell C and three leading construction companies – is working with Women in Construction Anglia to strengthen the pipeline of future talent.
Its new ambassador programme aims to attract, develop and retain female talent by training college students to lead school outreach activities, supported by inspiring role models from the CWA and its supply chain.
“This new project reflects our commitment to ensuring women play an essential role within our organisation and across the industry,” said Nicky Paine, the CWA’s social impact manager.
“We want women to know that their skills, ambition and ideas are exactly what construction and infrastructure need, and that they will play a vital role in shaping and strengthening the sector’s future.”
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Clare Friel, managing director at Women in Construction Anglia, added: “We’re creating real connections between education and industry, helping young people build confidence, meet role models, and better understand the opportunities available across the Sizewell C supply chain.”
Together, these initiatives are helping to break down barriers, open doors and redefine what the industry looks like. By fostering a culture where women can thrive, Sizewell C is helping to build a more inclusive future for the energy sector.
As Uvonne Molloy, a dump truck driver at Blackwell Earthmoving, put it: “Construction has traditionally been seen as a man’s world, but we want to show the next generation that it’s for everyone.
“I’ve got two young daughters, and I want them to grow up thinking: if mum can do it, so can I.”
For more information, visit sizewellc.com
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