Construction is often seen as a traditional industry, but the people shaping it today are anything but. Different backgrounds, perspectives and experiences are helping move the sector forward — and the women across ST1 Group are a great example of that.
Last week marked Women in Construction Week 2026, followed by International Women’s Day on Saturday. It felt like the right moment to recognise some of the women in our team and share their stories — not just their roles, but the paths that brought them into the industry and the advice they would give to others considering it.
Over the past week we shone a light on three members of the team whose journeys show that there is no single route into construction.
Gemma Duncalf — Senior Surveyor
Women in Construction Week also coincided with welcoming Gemma Duncalf to ST1 Group as a Senior Surveyor.
Gemma’s career in construction began almost by accident. She originally interviewed for a commercial administration role, but during the process was offered the chance to become a trainee Quantity Surveyor — a job she had never even heard of at the time.
Ten years later, she has built a successful career in the industry and continues to develop her expertise.
For Gemma, one of the most rewarding parts of construction is the people you meet along the way.
“The relationships you build and the knowledge shared between colleagues really help everyone succeed.”
Her advice to women considering construction is simple:
“Don’t just join the industry — be part of it. Make your voice heard, back yourself and help others along the way.”
Jessica Pashley — Legal Executive, Dispute Resolution Services Ltd
We also highlighted Jessica Pashley, Legal Executive in Dispute Resolution Services Ltd, part of the ST1 Group.
Jess’ role sits within the legal side of construction, where technical knowledge and practical thinking go hand in hand. Each commission brings new challenges, and she enjoys the process of working through complex issues to reach the best outcome for clients.
One of her proudest achievements is the depth of knowledge she has built over time, which now allows her to lead commissions independently.
This year’s theme, “Level Up. Build Strong.”, reflects the way she approaches her career — continually learning, raising standards and helping strengthen the industry.
Her message to women thinking about construction is clear:
“Believe in your capability. Embrace continuous learning. Step confidently into the space — there is room for your voice, your expertise, and your ambition.”
Rosie Preston — Commercial Assistant
Finally, we celebrated Rosie Preston, our Commercial Assistant, who joined the industry more recently but has already made a strong impression.
Rosie came from a background in art and cultural heritage, bringing a different perspective to the construction world. Since joining, she has been working alongside contractors, tackling complex commercial tasks and contributing to the refurbishment of a listed hotel in Shakespeare’s hometown.
She particularly enjoys getting out to site and seeing projects develop in real time.
Rosie credits the support of the team around her as a key part of her progress.
“Having strong women around you makes all the difference.”
She points to the support and guidance from colleagues — particularly her line manager, Gemma — as something that has helped her build confidence and develop within the industry.
Looking ahead
Women in Construction Week and International Women’s Day are a reminder that the industry continues to evolve. The more perspectives and experiences it welcomes, the stronger it becomes.
At ST1 Group, we’re proud of the women across our team who are contributing to that progress every day — building their careers, supporting one another and helping deliver the projects we work on.
And if the stories from this week show anything, it’s that there’s no single path into construction — but there is plenty of opportunity once you’re part of it.