Spotlight on Talent: Claire Brittain

Claire Brittain

Studied BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment (Pearson), now working as Assistant Site Manager for BAM Construction

I often forget I’m the only female…

It’s important that if women want to get into the Construction industry, they follow their dream and let nothing stand in their way! It’s one of the best things I’ve done and I take it all in my stride – I often forget I’m sometimes the only female out on site and my colleagues fully accept me based on my skills.

Building a solid future…

My first job was with S&G Construction and after this I got onto a bricklaying apprenticeship scheme with national housebuilder, Taylor Wimpey. In between having my two children, I decided to enrol on to a Level 3 Construction and Built Environment course course at Walsall College, and this helped me land the job I had always wanted with BAM, who sponsored me to complete my Level 4 Higher National Certificate. I’ve worked on some of their major projects including the redevelopment of the Barclaycard Arena in Birmingham, the Royal Shakespeare Company and The Other Place development in Stratford-upon-Avon. This year I was also presented with the Rising Star honour at the national 2016 Women in Construction Award, which was incredible.

It’s considerably cheaper to do a HE course at Walsall College…

I had a good relationship with the tutors and fellow students but the fact it’s considerably cheaper to do a higher education course at Walsall College than university definitely played a big part in my decision.

Helpful, knowledgeable tutors

My tutors were very knowledgeable and always helped where they could, even if it meant replying via email. This was a great help as I was working from home due to being on maternity leave during the first year of my HNC and throughout my second year I was on day release.

Valuable experience I use in the workplace 

I enjoyed gaining valuable experience on my course, which I’ve been able to take on site with me. Completing presentations and being involved in meetings taught me techniques which I now use in the workplace

I enjoy every minute of my job

My day-to-day role at BAM Construction is wonderful and I enjoy every minute of it as no day is ever the same! Construction sites can be challenging when dealing with issues such as materials or labour delays but I love having that challenge as it really pushes you. BAM are a fantastic company to work for and I’m really lucky to have a job with them.

17 Aug 2016