Aston Group supports Women into Construction through inspiring SWAP Programme

Led by Aston Group's Social Value Manager, Rachel Statter, the initiative provided women considering a career in construction with practical training, mentoring, industry insight and valuable networking opportunities designed to build confidence and support future employment prospects.

Working closely with Aubrey Mpengula and the team at Capital City College, Rachel planned, coordinated and delivered a comprehensive programme of activities for the current SWAP cohort. The wider two-week programme is designed to introduce participants to careers within the construction and built environment sectors while preparing them to sit their examination for a free CSCS card.

Building confidence through mentoring

The programme began with one-to-one mentoring sessions, giving participants the opportunity to discuss their aspirations, explore career pathways and receive tailored advice about entering the construction industry.

These personalised sessions helped attendees gain a greater understanding of the diverse range of opportunities available across the built environment and provided practical guidance on taking their next steps towards employment.

Essential health and safety training

The second day focused on construction health and safety training, equipping participants with valuable knowledge and recognised qualifications that will support their future careers.

The women successfully completed CPD-certified training in:

• Manual Handling
• Introduction to Asbestos
• Working at Height
• Working in Confined Spaces

These additional qualifications provide a strong foundation as participants continue their journey towards achieving their CSCS card and pursuing employment within the sector.

Women in Construction panel inspires future talent

The programme culminated in Aston Group's third Women in Construction Panel, bringing together professionals from across the industry to share their experiences, career journeys and advice with more than 25 women from multiple London boroughs.

The panel featured representatives from leading organisations across the construction and housing sectors, including:

• Taylor Wimpey
• Hill Group
• Vistry
• Women in Retrofit
• Representatives from Waltham Forest, Islington, Tower Hamlets and Hackney DWP teams

The discussion provided valuable insight into the many routes available into construction and highlighted the wide range of opportunities within the built environment.

A success story comes full circle

One of the most inspiring moments of the event was the return of Nina, a former Women in Construction SWAP participant who is now Aston Group's newest Level 4 Construction Site Supervisor Apprentice.

After attending a previous SWAP programme and participating in sessions delivered by Aston Group, Nina's enthusiasm and determination to pursue a career in construction stood out immediately. She was subsequently offered a work experience placement with Aston Group, where she continued to demonstrate exceptional commitment and potential.

Her hard work ultimately led to a permanent opportunity within the business, and she is now developing her career through her apprenticeship programme.

Returning to share her journey with the current cohort, Nina provided a powerful example of what can be achieved when individuals embrace opportunities, gain practical experience and pursue their ambitions with determination.

Creating pathways into construction

A key message throughout the programme was that there is no single route into the construction industry. Many successful professionals shared their experiences of entering the sector without previous qualifications or industry backgrounds, demonstrating that construction offers opportunities for people from all walks of life.

Programmes such as the Women in Construction SWAP play an important role in breaking down barriers, increasing awareness of career opportunities and supporting more women to enter an industry where they continue to be underrepresented.

Strengthening communities through social value

Aston Group is proud to support initiatives that create meaningful employment opportunities and help build a more diverse workforce across the construction and built environment sectors.

We would like to thank Rachel Statter for her dedication in organising and delivering this successful programme, as well as Aubrey Mpengula, Capital City College and all of the industry professionals who generously shared their time, experience and encouragement with the participants.

Most importantly, we congratulate every woman who took part in the programme and look forward to following their future success stories.

At Aston Group, we remain committed to creating pathways into construction and inspiring the next generation of talent across the built environment.