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Sabrina Irfan

Sabrina Irfan

Section Engineer, Costain Group plc

I am a section engineer working on delivering HS2 in London specifically on the South Ruislip Vent Shaft. I have worked in the industry for nearly 5 years. I have a successful track record in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects, I have been able to use my skills set to deliver projects on time and to the required budget. Over the years, I have gained invaluable experience in project management, teamwork, and problem-solving, which has helped me to advance my career and take on more challenging projects. In my current role I am responsible for delivering the Urban Realms onsite. For this I work closely with a team of engineers, designers, and technicians to ensure that the section is delivered to the highest standards of safety, reliability, and performance. Despite the demanding nature of my job, I am passionate about construction and engineering. Hence, I have used my free time to do volunteering and work with organisations such as ICE, STEM and Construction Youth to encourage more young women into the industry. I also have recently started a blog where I am writing about my experience within the industry hoping to give an insight to women and girls that are considering a career in the industry.

Statement:
Being a "woman in construction" makes me proud of myself. My interest in learning how structures were constructed as a young girl led me to seek a profession in engineering. When I moved to the UK as a child, this interest only reinforced. Especially in light of the complex infrastructure that has been constructed all across this nation.
We all use infrastructure on a daily basis and women make up 50% of the population despite this fact, they only make up 13.4% of the workforce in the construction sector (ONS, 20121). Even though the proportion is rising, there is still a lot of work to be done, and I want to be a part of this. Everyday decisions in the construction business have an impact on all of us, and women must be included in making them.
It's also time to dispel the gender norms that have long held the construction sector back. We need more women to contribute to the future's construction since they are equally talented, intelligent, and creative. From architecture and engineering to project management and skilled trades, the construction industry provides a wide variety of fascinating and fulfilling employment. Women bring a fresh viewpoint that can help to fuel innovation and creativity in the sector.

We can contribute to the development of a more inclusive and diverse sector that benefits all parties by expanding the number of women in the construction industry. Women will help the sector advance by bringing fresh perspectives, innovative methods, and innovative ways of thinking.

I am passionate about empowering more women into the industry and developing female role models for young girls so that they perceive the construction industry as one that is open to all genders.