Top 100 most influential women in construction

This category celebrates women making a significant impact at a local or regional level. Whether through community projects, SME growth, or advocacy, these individuals are shaping the industry from the ground up.

Judging criteria:

1. Regional impact – influence on local businesses, communities, or projects.
2. Leadership & visibility – recognised within the region for contributions to construction.
3. Mentorship & community engagement – supporting others within the industry locally.
4. Challenges overcome – demonstrating resilience and leadership in adversity.
5. Innovation & sustainability – local contributions to best practices or sustainability.

What to include in the nomination:

• Examples of regional projects or initiatives led.
• Testimonials from community members, clients, or colleagues.
• Description of how they are inspiring change locally and their impact.

A rising star demonstrating exceptional potential, leadership, and innovation early in their career. They need to have been in the industry for three years or under.

Judging criteria:

1. Career progression – evidence of growth or exceptional achievements.
2. Innovation & fresh thinking – bringing new ideas or approaches to the industry.
3. Inspiration & motivation – encouraging peers and demonstrating leadership qualities.
4. Commitment to learning & development – pursuing training, mentorship, or self-improvement.
5. Impact & recognition – acknowledged for making a difference within a short timeframe.

What to include in the nomination:

• Key achievements within the industry so far.
• Examples of innovation or fresh perspectives introduced.
• Testimonials from colleagues, mentors, or clients.

Celebrating excellence among tradeswomen, recognising skill, leadership, and contribution to the industry.

Judging criteria:

1. Technical skill & craftsmanship – high standards and expertise in the trade.
2. Advocacy & mentorship – supporting and inspiring others in the trade.
3. Breaking barriers – overcoming challenges and driving inclusivity.
4. Leadership & influence – a respected role model in the sector.
5. Longevity & commitment – dedication to their craft and industry improvement.

What to include in the nomination:

• Examples of outstanding work, projects, or technical achievements.
• Testimonials from colleagues, apprentices, or clients.
• Evidence of advocacy or mentorship within the industry.

Recognising a group (rather than an individual) actively championing and supporting women in construction. This category is open to women and men.

Judging criteria:

1. Advocacy & action – demonstrable efforts in improving DEI in the sector.
2. Impact & reach – evidence of tangible change and engagement.
3. Collaboration & support – working effectively to create opportunities for women.
4. Longevity & consistency – long-term commitment to allyship.
5. Sustainability of efforts – how the group’s work creates lasting change.

What to include in the nomination:

• Description of initiatives or programs supporting women in construction.
• Evidence of impact (e.g., increased participation, policy changes).

Testimonials from those who have benefited.

Recognising leadership in the contracting sector, from major contractors to specialist trades.

Judging criteria:

1. Leadership & business growth – driving success in the contracting sector.
2. Innovation & operational excellence – implementing improvements in construction methods.
3. Workforce development – supporting employee development and training.
4. Diversity & inclusion efforts – leading inclusive workplaces and hiring practices.
5. Impact on the industry – recognition and influence in the sector.

Celebrating leadership in architecture, engineering, or design disciplines.

Judging criteria:

1. Innovation in design – pioneering sustainable, inclusive, or impactful designs.
2. Technical excellence – delivering outstanding work that influences the industry.
3. Collaboration & leadership – mentoring and supporting others in the field.
4. Industry advocacy – promoting best practices and professional development.
5. Long-term impact – contributions shaping the built environment.

Recognising a woman on the client side who has driven transformational change in construction.

Judging criteria:

1. Strategic influence – shaping projects and policies in construction.
2. Procurement & sustainability – encouraging ethical, inclusive, and sustainable approaches.
3. Leadership & advocacy – championing best practices in the industry.
4. Project impact – involvement in significant, high-profile projects.

Collaboration & engagement – working across sectors to drive change

Celebrating those shaping the next generation through education, training, or mentoring.

Judging criteria:

1. Impact on learning & development – teaching and mentoring future industry professionals.
2. Innovation in education – creating new approaches to training or development.
3. Industry engagement – collaborating with the sector to improve skills.
4. Advocacy & inclusion – encouraging diverse participation in education.
5. Long-term influence – shaping workforce development strategies.

Recognising women leading small to medium enterprises, specialist trades, or independent businesses.

Judging criteria:

1. Business leadership & growth – success in leading an SME or trade business.
2. Innovation & problem-solving – unique contributions to the sector.
3. Employee development & engagement – supporting staff and apprenticeships.
4. Industry & community impact – engaging in wider industry improvement.
5. Resilience & leadership – overcoming challenges and driving business success.

The most influential woman in construction is not a category open for direct nominations. Instead, this award is selected from the shortlisted candidates across all other categories.

The judges will use a ranking system to determine the winner based on five key criteria, considering overall industry influence, leadership, and long-term impact.

Selection criteria:

Industry-wide influence & recognition

• Has the nominee significantly shaped or influenced the construction industry at a national or international level?
• Have they been recognised as a thought leader, influencer, or key figure in the sector?

Leadership & advocacy for change

• Has the nominee demonstrated exceptional leadership that has driven meaningful change?
• Have they championed diversity, inclusion, equity, or sustainability in the sector?

Innovation & best practice impact

• Have they introduced or championed innovative methods, strategies, or best practices that have transformed the way construction operates?
• Have they influenced policy, technology, or construction methodologies?

Mentorship & talent development

• Have they actively mentored, supported, or developed talent in the industry?
• Have they contributed to training, education, or workforce development?

Legacy & long-term contribution

• What is the nominee’s lasting impact on the industry?
• Have they shaped policies, organisations, or industry standards that will have a lasting effect?