New training programme to help women access HS2 careers

HS2 is working with Women into Construction (WiC), an independent not-for-profit organisation, to help more women in the Midlands launch a career in the construction sector.

A new four-week training programme, which starts in October, will combine two weeks of training, a two-week work placement on HS2 and one-to-one support from WiC. 

Childcare and transport costs are both provided, whilst on placement, and HS2 hopes this will encourage women that want to return to the workplace, or start a new career, to consider taking part.

On successful completion of the course, candidates will gain a construction skills accreditation that enables them to work on site, ready to start a new career. 

The work placement element of the course is varied, with candidates able to select between either site or office-based roles including project management, corporate social responsibility and engineering, reflecting the breadth of career opportunities in the sector.

Beatriz Ramos Albert, HS2’s corporate responsibility and sustainability apprentice who is co-ordinating the programme, said: “Our partnership with WiC is now in its fourth year and we’ve supported local women from a broad range of backgrounds, whether university graduates, or new mums returning to the workplace, to start new careers.

“I’d encourage anyone looking for help to get back into work to come along to our information day. The four-week course is free of charge and is a great way for women to boost their confidence, gain experience and link up with companies in our supply chain that are actively recruiting.”

Jacqui Wordsworth, director of business development at Women into Construction, added: “The bespoke programme has been carefully created with HS2 to provide women with a fantastic opportunity to understand more about the world of construction and equip them with key skills they need to progress their careers. 

“We are very grateful to HS2 for the commitment they have shown in helping to address the gender imbalance which exists in the industry and we look forward to welcoming more women onto the programme."

For more information about the free employment programme, or for details of the upcoming information day, which will be held at HS2’s offices in Birmingham on Wednesday, September 20 from 10.30am-noon, click here