About

Following the success of last year’s Inspire Summit, the one day conference and exhibition returns to Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall on the 25th September.

The focus for the 2018 summit is how we attract and retain women in the construction and related industries, with tangible takeaways for industry participants who want to increase their gender diversity.

TRACK 1: With the 'Inspire Industry Change' conference track, delegates can expect a comprehensive business case for why the industry needs to change and expert presentations on what needs to be done and how we can achieve gender equality in UK construction, engineering & housing.  This will comprise a balanced gender mix of speakers and is aimed at attracting professionals of all sexes who are serious about achieving gender parity in their organisation and the wider industry.

TRACK 2: As with the 2017 event, the paid professional delegates will subsidise free attendance for students, apprentices and women of all ages who don't currently work in the sector (but are considering doing so) to attend the 'Inspire the next generation' conference track.  Presentations will highlight current & future roles in construction, break down stereotypes, hear from inspirational female role models, showcase live projects and offer viable routes into an exciting career in the building industry.

Track 1: Inspire Industry Change (silver & gold delegates only)

Welcome address: Beyond the 100 years - a testament to the suffragette movement and a brief history of the role of women in industry over the 100 years from then to now.

Introduction:  Breaking down our pre-programmed gender roles.  What jobs can’t women do?   Re-wiring our gender biased brains

Where are we now?  What is the problem and where do we start to change?  Why do we need gender parity and what is the business case?

Embracing & making the business case for flexible working

The importance of role models. How do we engage with schools & parents?  Adopting a school - a working case study

Careers Clinic - how we do ensure talent retention & development?

How to combat discriminatory behaviour in the workplace:  Educate = Eradicate

How do we change the image of construction to appeal to the next generation?  Selling the future workplace

Gender pay gap - How does your organisation implement equal pay?

Track 2: Inspire the next generation

Welcome address: Beyond the 100 years - a testament to the suffragette movement and a brief history of the role of women in industry over the 100 years from then to now.

An introduction to the building industry and the importance of the built environment on modern society

What inspired me into a career in construction (panel presentation)

Different roles in construction:  What roles can’t women do?  Breaking down the stereotypes.

Live project showcase

Trades Taster Session - Women on the Tools

Design Engineer Construction Course - Taster session

A window on the future of a career in the building sector - showcasing technology in the building sector (including AI, VR, BIM & modular construction)

Steps to success and routes into the industry