Top 100 Women in Construction: Spotlight on Lade Ogunlaja

The Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards showcase the incredible women and allies who are driving real change in the construction industry. The awards shine a light on their achievements, while demonstrating that the sector is diverse, inclusive and open to everyone.

Today we celebrate Lade Ogunlaja, a construction project consultant with a passion for sustainability and inclusivity. Lade has been nominated for the Allies award, which recognises the key influencers who support inclusion and change.

Leading the way in sustainability

Lade’s career was sparked to life by her interest in how construction can improve the world around us. She quickly became dedicated to integrating sustainable practices into every project she worked on, focussing on innovative solutions to complex problems.

"My motivation for a career in construction comes from a deep desire to make a tangible impact on both people's lives and the environment," Lade explains. "I am driven by the need for innovative and eco-friendly solutions within the industry."

Lade’s commitment to sustainability has made her a strong advocate for reaching Net Zero and alternative housing solutions, such as modular construction. Her work is not just about meeting the industry's current standards but setting new benchmarks for sustainability and efficiency.

Facing down challenges

As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, Lade has experienced challenges, including outdated perceptions that required her to repeatedly prove her expertise. However, this only strengthened her resolve.

"One of the significant challenges I have faced as a woman in the construction industry is overcoming stereotypes and biases," Lade shares. "I overcame these challenges by consistently delivering high-quality work, seeking mentorship and building a strong network of supportive colleagues."

Lade’s roles as a Women in Construction (WiC) Ambassador with London Build and a Girls Under Construction Ambassador have allowed her to tackle these challenges on a broader scale. Lade is a passionate advocate for more inclusive practices within the industry, helping to pave the way for future generations.

Recognition and impact

“Being shortlisted for the Allies award in the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction is a profound honour. This recognition validates the importance of championing diversity and environmental responsibility, and motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and advocating for positive change.”

Lade takes great pride in her contributions to sustainable construction practices, especially now it’s a top priority across industry. Additionally, she finds mentoring young women extremely rewarding. "Seeing projects come to life that not only meet but exceed Net Zero objectives is incredibly rewarding," she says. "Witnessing the growth and success of young women mentored through my roles with Women in Construction and Girls Under Construction is incredibly fulfilling."

A more inclusive industry

While the industry has come on leaps and bounds, Lade believes there is still work to do in promoting women into influential roles. She advocates for policies that encourage diversity and inclusion, such as mentorship programmes, promoting STEM education and construction-related careers for girls, addressing the gender pay gap, and offering flexible working opportunities. "Creating a culture that values and recognises the contributions of women is crucial for inspiring future generations.”

Lade’s advice to women considering a career in construction is simple but powerful: "Be confident in your abilities and seek out opportunities for growth and learning. The construction industry offers a vast array of opportunities, and women can make significant contributions to shaping its future."

Building a better tomorrow

For Lade, construction is about much more than just building structures; it’s about shaping a better future. Her recognition in the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards is not just a personal achievement but a step towards a more inclusive and sustainable industry.

"Together, we can build a future that reflects our highest aspirations for society.”