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Despite a global population exceeding eight billion, around half of whom are female, the construction sector has so far failed to succeed in becoming as diverse as the people it serves.

There still exists a perception of an industry dominated by muddy boots, hard hats and heavy machinery that belies the incredible range of careers it offers and the huge strides that have been taken towards promoting gender equality in recent history.

We are making progress, but there is undeniably an incredibly long way to go – which is why it is so important to amplify the voices of the many women carving out their place in this male dominated space, breaking down barriers to access not only for themselves but also for the talented women who will follow after them.

In the following pages, we hear from some of the inspiring women shaping the landscape of the built environment on the world’s stage today.

From architects and engineers to project managers and tradeswomen across the globe, each conversation offers an insight into their trials and triumphs as they have risen to prominence in a field where they might once have been considered outliers.

They discuss the lessons they have learnt, share their wisdom and set out their visions for the future.

I am no stranger to strong women and am proud to have met and worked alongside some of construction’s most impressive female change-makers, but this collection of interviews has once again affirmed my admiration and respect for all those who choose to venture into an industry which has for too long failed to set out the welcome mat.

Each conversation offers an insight into their trials and triumphs as they have risen to prominence in a field where they might once have been considered outliers

It is a celebration of diversity, inclusion and empowerment – and a fantastic call to action for all those women and girls who dream of shaping the places and spaces of tomorrow.

Further, these interviews affirm my optimism that the industry in which I have worked for so many years is moving towards a more diverse, inclusive future – thanks in no small part to the efforts of these trailblazers.

I celebrate not only their personal successes but also their collective success in shifting the dial and showing us that the built environment can be a place where everyone can prosper.

I’d like to thank each and every one of them for taking the time to share with us the captivating stories of their careers to date, and I look forward to seeing what comes next for them and for the next generation of women in construction whom they will undoubtedly inspire

Richard Steer is the chairman at Gleeds Global