Future Cast Hosts Successful European Event in Manorhamilton to Address Gender Imbalance in the Construction Industry

Future Cast, a strong proponent of innovation, diversity, and gender equity in the construction sector, is thrilled to announce the success of its recent FEMCON event held in Manorhamilton on the 28th of March. The event brought together delegates from across the construction industry to explore strategies for redressing the gender imbalance prevalent within the sector.

The event, held at the W8 Centre, in Manorhamilton, provided a platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration among industry professionals, policymakers, educators, and advocacy groups. Participants engaged in lively discussions, sharing insights and best practices aimed at promoting gender diversity and inclusion within the construction industry.

“We are delighted with the overwhelming response and active participation we witnessed at our event in Manorhamilton,” said JJ O’Hara, CEO at Future Cast. “Bringing together stakeholders from various sectors of the construction industry underscores the collective commitment to addressing the gender imbalance and fostering a more inclusive workforce.”

Key highlights of the event included:

Panel Discussions: Industry experts led insightful panel discussions on topics such as ‘Challenges and Opportunities for Women in Construction,’ ‘Promoting Diversity in Leadership,’ and ‘Innovative Solutions for Gender Inclusivity.’ Panellists included Caitriona Bergin, Moderator and Chair of Women in Construction and Quarrying Ireland Steering group; Dr Dervla McManus, Post Doctoral Researcher in Gender Equity in Architecture, UCD; Kevin Dolan, Director of Design, Vision Built; Muge Karasahin, Director of Sustainability, Ethos Engineering; and Claire Lundy, Rope Technician.

Keynote Speaker: Leonie Cornelius provided a thoughtful keynote on the need to challenge gender stereotypes from an early age and the plethora of opportunities available within the industry.

Networking Opportunities: Attendees had the chance to network with peers, exchange ideas, and establish valuable connections aimed at driving positive change within the industry.

Workshops and Interactive Sessions: Interactive workshops provided practical tools and resources for promoting gender diversity and equality in the workplace, empowering participants to implement meaningful change within their organisations.

The event underscored the urgent need for collaborative efforts to overcome systemic barriers and create a more inclusive and equitable construction industry. Future Cast remains committed to building on the momentum generated at the event and continuing its mission to drive positive change within the sector.

FEMCON (Empowering Females in Construction) is an Erasmus+ European-funded project that provides innovative vocational education and training tools to help women advance to visible roles within the industry. The project partnership worked together to create: –

1. A Reach and Teach toolkit, providing a blueprint for companies to create their gender action plan. This is available in four languages (Danish, German, Polish & English).

2. An online course including modules on:

• Challenging gender stereotypes
• Working well in construction
• Assertive and workplace communication
• Future of Construction
• Disruptive Innovation

3.  A video showcase of inspirational women working in the industry.

4.  Open access Resources available on the FEMCON website.

Future Cast extends its gratitude to all attendees, panellists, keynote speaker Leonie Cornelius and project partners for their invaluable contributions to making the event a resounding success.

For more information about Future Cast and its initiatives to promote gender diversity in construction, please visit www.futurecast.info or contact Mamta Bhardwaj, Marketing Coordinator [email protected]