It's a great morning when you wake up to the news that your Head of Marketing and Communications, Lauren Barker, has been shortlisted for the UK Construction Week Role Model of the Year.
It is an immense privilege to be involved in something like this and we are so pleased and excited for Lauren. With the huge challenges that remain around the recruitment of new people into the construction sector, this initiative aims to take role models in the industry and elevate their profile/story nationwide to inspire a new generation of professionals to join this rewarding and exciting industry.
UK Construction Week is the UK's largest built environment event which takes place at the NEC Birmingham, 09-11 October this year. It consists of nine shows, including our favourite, the Surface & Materials Show.
UKCW main stage with Grand Designs presenter, Kevin McCloud
Role models will be asked to speak on stage at the UKCW and excitingly take part in their student outreach programme, talking to students and teachers at key stages of their education to explain their inspiration and why they chose a career in this industry.
Lauren is thrilled to be chosen (if a little nervous!) and is ready to take on the challenge. She says, "I initially came to work for Lawcris as a freelancer to produce a new website. A three-month contract quickly turned into a full-time contract as soon as I saw how exciting and rewarding this industry can be. I would relish the opportunity to influence and engage others."
Stuart Hall, CNC General Manager, talks through the daily operation to Cleveland College of Art & Design
Earlier this year, practical design students from Cleveland College of Art & Design were invited by Lawcris to visit their site in Leeds to take a look at their daily operation.
Lauren goes on to say, "Meeting those students was a fantastic opportunity for us to come face to face with talented individuals who are eager to get involved with our industry. It is great to talk to them and understand how they want to shape the industry. They are the future. It will be exciting to reach out to other students and inspire that next generation". See all of our Corporate Responsibility stories here.
We are super pleased for Lauren and will keep you updated with her progress with this fantastic opportunity that UKCW has given.