A South Wales woman has gained vital construction experience on one of Pobl largest new housing schemes.
Maggie Jurajda, 34, who settled in Cardiff after moving from Poland 10 years ago, took part in a work experience placement, in a bid to help her progress into a career in construction.
The placement took place on our £24million housing scheme on Herbert Road, located alongside the banks of the River Usk. The new homes will be built over a four year period in partnership with Keepmoat Regeneration and Newport City Council. The development will include extensive infrastructure improvements as well as new apartments and family houses for affordable rent, shared ownership and outright sale. They will be marketed through Pobliving and Derwen (for people over the age of 55).
Prior to her placement, Maggie worked as an Architectural Technician. Due to the lack of progression in her role, she ventured out and started her own property services business where she partnered with a local property developer who exposed her to the onsite side of bricks and mortar.
Maggie said: “I began helping with developing the properties, refurbishing and promoting them. That experience is what attracted me to working onsite. I liked being out there doing the work instead of being in the office.” In hope of moving to a site based role, she contacted Pinkspiration, who offer placements, mentoring and guidance to those who are looking to progress into the construction industry.
Lisa Marie Brown, Director at Pinkspiration, said: “We are delighted to have partnered with Keepmoat Regeneration and Pobl Group to place people onsite to gain skills and experience. “There are only 3% of women in manual trades, 5% in engineering and 13% in professional roles, so it is vital we work collaboratively to create a pipeline of talent to fill the skills gap.”
With the work placement now complete, Maggie is hoping it will prove a stepping stone to securing her ideal role as a Construction Design Manager.
Maggie added: “I like this role because it links the Site Manager and Architect roles together. Before the placement, I didn’t know there were so many different job options available onsite. This experience has given me the exposure that I needed and encouraged me to find a career that I will enjoy.”
Edward Rees, Regional Director at Keepmoat Regeneration, said: “When Pinkspiration informed us about Maggie’s desire to work onsite, we were more than happy to have her on board. With her architectural background, she already had knowledge of building design and worked really well with the project team.
“As a business, we’re always supportive of those who are looking to upskill and are always looking for opportunities to train more people, to bridge the skills shortage in the industry. Having more women working in construction is an added bonus, as it creates a more balanced workplace and equal opportunities for growth and career progression.”
Rhys Parry, Pobl Development Director (East) said: “It’s fantastic to hear that Maggie has benefitted greatly from the onsite experience with the help of Keepmoat Regeneration, who have an exemplary track record of creating construction opportunities and turning out high calibre trainees.”
“The future is extremely bright for Maggie, who we have no doubt will be an excellent role model for young women who don’t wish to be stereotyped, want to learn new skills and are eager to break through barriers”.
Article added: 12th December 2017
