Press release: Routes into Construction for Women

As Birmingham gears up for the arrival of HS2, Britain’s brand new railway which will transform the UK economy, thousands of jobs are being created up and down the country.

Sitting at the heart of the new network, the West Midlands is already feeling the benefits of HS2, and that trend is set to continue as major construction begins later this year.

30,000 people will play a role in designing and delivering the new backbone to Britain’s railway, and HS2 is eager to ensure that local people, under-represented and disadvantaged groups are amongst them.

Kate Myers, HS2 Ltd’s Head of Skills, Employment and Education, said:

This is a fantastic opportunity for women in the region to find out more about HS2 and the role that they can play in transforming our railways and the UK economy.

HS2 opens up career opportunities in so many fields and this is a great way to find out about the jobs coming up. 7,000 people have already played a role in delivering HS2 and we want to see more women in the 30,000 roles the project will support.

The programme has been designed in partnership with Women into Construction, HS2 Ltd, South and City College, West Midlands Combined Authority and Birmingham City Council. It comprises a 2 week employability course, which will include the opportunity for applicants to gain their CSCS card, followed by a 4 week work experience placement at one of a number of HS2’s supply chain companies, in addition to opportunities for placements at HS2 Ltd.

Work experience placements will be offered in a variety of roles including ecology, civil engineering, design and archaeology with West Midlands based companies including LMJV, BBV, WSP, Eiffage Kier and Fusion.

Kath Moore, Managing Director at Women into Construction, said:

We are delighted to be working with HS2 to enable women to access work-placements and potentially kick start their careers on this exciting project.