Episode 23 - Mike Burton 'The Token Male'

Episode 23 - Mike Burton 'The Token Male'

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams interviews Mike Burton, a prominent figure in the construction industry, discussing his extensive career, insights on gender disparity, leadership challenges, and the importance of mentorship. Mike shares his experiences and lessons learned, emphasising the need for supportive networks and pathways for women in engineering. The conversation also touches on the future of the construction industry and advice for women in their early careers. During our discussion, we explored the different phases of a man's career compared to those of women in construction. Mike noted that the pragmatic endurance stage women experience during their careers stands in stark contrast to men’s focus on stability and advancement during similar periods. This difference highlights the unique challenges women face in balancing work and family life, often leading to the development of essential skills that can benefit them in their careers. Mike's philosophy is centred around giving back, which he attributes to his upbringing in the industry. He emphasised the significance of mentorship in his career, stating that he had many supporters early on who helped him succeed. By volunteering in mentoring programs, Mike has committed himself to nurturing the next generation of engineers and leaders in the industry. He believes that providing support and guidance enables individuals to flourish in their careers, especially women balancing family responsibilities and professional aspirations. One of the most important lessons Mike shared from his career is the value of building relationships. He encourages young professionals to develop connections within their industry, emphasising that these relationships can provide support and opportunities throughout their careers. Networking is not just about professional connections but also about creating a community that can help each other succeed. Mike's insights offer valuable lessons for both men and women in the construction industry. His commitment to mentorship, understanding of career phases, and leadership philosophy highlight the importance of support systems in fostering talent. As we wrap up this series, it’s clear that collaboration and mutual support are essential in driving inclusion and innovation in our field. Takeaways: ·      The importance of mentorship and supporting emerging talent. ·      The construction industry faces significant gender disparity, with only 9% of UK engineers being women. ·      Leadership is about empathy, communication, and accountability. ·      Building relationships in the industry is crucial for career success. ·      The pandemic posed unique challenges for leaders in the construction sector. ·      Women often develop super skills during the pragmatic endurance phase of their careers. ·      Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are essential for career growth. For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk [http://www.breathecoaching.co.uk] Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 04:34 Mike’s Career Overview and Achievements 11:21 Phases of Career Development: A Male Perspective 14:50 Leadership and Its Challenges 19:30 Lessons Learned and Insights for Women 25:30 Addressing Gender Disparity in Engineering 28:08 Failures and Unexpected Lessons 32:15 Supporting Women's Development in the Industry

Episode 22 - Helen Collie

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Helen Collie, a partner at HKA and a chartered structural engineer. Helen shares her journey in the construction industry, discussing her transition into leadership, the importance of establishing boundaries between work and home life, and the challenges she faced, including the loss of her father. She emphasises the value of having a supportive team and the lessons learned from her experiences, including embracing one's uniqueness and the significance of shared values in a Collie environment. In this conversation, Helen and Bev discuss the significant gender pay gap in the construction industry, the importance of representation and visibility for women in engineering, and the need for a cultural shift to support women in STEM fields. They explore the concept of failure, emphasising the importance of learning from experiences rather than letting them define one's worth. Helen shares her journey and insights on how to encourage more girls to pursue engineering, while also reflecting on her own career and the challenges faced along the way. Helen’s experiences highlight the importance of authentic leadership in the construction industry. By embracing her leadership style, setting boundaries, and prioritising self-care, she not only enhances her own well-being but also fosters a supportive environment for her team. Aspiring leaders can learn valuable lessons from Helen’s journey, reminding us that leadership is about more than just a title; it’s about being true to oneself and empowering others. Takeaways ·      Leadership allows for personal expression and doing things one's own way. ·      Establishing boundaries is crucial for work-life balance. ·      Grief can impact career direction and stability. ·      Supportive work environments are essential for well-being. ·      Having a solid team with shared values is invaluable. ·      Failure to execute is not the end of the world. ·      It's important to learn to share the load with a team. ·      Embracing uniqueness can lead to personal satisfaction. ·      Celebrating one's weirdness is a positive trait. Words can have a lasting impact on young minds. ·      Statistics often hide deeper cultural issues. ·      Failure can be reframed as a learning opportunity. ·      Visibility of women in engineering is crucial for future generations. ·      Encouraging girls to consider STEM is essential for change. ·      It's important to enjoy the journey and successes in your career. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Helen Collie 05:05 Reinventing Leadership and Personal Growth 08:15 Establishing Boundaries in Work and Life 13:09 Navigating Grief and Career Challenges 19:08 Support Systems in the Workplace 24:52 Lessons Learned from Team Dynamics 27:15 Embracing Uniqueness and Overcoming Insults 32:00 Gender Pay Gap in Construction 38:07 Redefining Failure 43:00 Visibility and Representation in Engineering

Episode 21 - Faye Allen

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Faye Allen, Managing Director Quantum EMEA, at Rimkus  who brings over three decades of experience in the construction industry. Faye shares her journey, the importance of leadership, and her groundbreaking book, "Building Women." We delve into Faye's insights and provide actionable takeaways for those looking to empower themselves and others in the construction field. In addition to her extensive practical experience, Faye is the author of the best-selling book, "Building Women: How Everyone in Construction Can Win." The book serves as both a guide and a call to action for tackling systemic issues affecting women and men in the construction industry.   Faye emphasises the significance of leadership, particularly in creating an environment where everyone feels valued and safe. She shares how her role as a leader allows her to build a team that aligns with her cultural values. "What I'm really, really enjoying is being able to build a team around me and watching people grow and flourish," she explains.   Faye highlights the necessity of creating a safe environment where team members can express their thoughts and concerns. This involves regular one-on-one meetings where honest dialogues can occur. By focusing on mentoring, Faye aims to help her team members develop their skills and confidence. This approach not only benefits the individuals but also enhances the overall team dynamic. Faye believes that listening is one of the most critical skills a leader can possess. Faye encourages leaders to actively listen to their teams, clients, and subcontractors to better understand their needs and concerns. Throughout her career, Faye has faced numerous challenges, including the persistent gender pay gap and issues related to workplace culture. She candidly shares her experiences of overcoming these obstaclesvand the importance of advocating for oneself.   In conclusion, Faye’s insights provide a roadmap for women navigating the construction industry. From leadership to advocacy, her experiences exemplify the importance of community and support. Takeaways: ·      Active listening is a crucial skill in effective leadership. ·      The gender pay gap remains a significant challenge in the industry. ·      It's crucial to create psychologically safe spaces in workplaces. ·      Many women do not report harassment due to fear & lack of support. ·      Failure is a part of learning and growth in any career. ·      Career paths can be non-linear & unexpected opportunities can arise. ·      Mothers in the workplace bring valuable organisational skills. ·      Cultural shifts are necessary for inclusivity in the construction industry. ·      Support networks are vital for women navigating their careers. BUY THE BOOK – BUILDING WOMEN https://fayeallen.co.uk [https://fayeallen.co.uk] https://amzn.eu/d/0dVwB6Am [https://amzn.eu/d/0dVwB6Am] Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Faye Allen 02:53 The Impact of Building Women 05:55 Leadership & Mentorship in Construction 08:52 Overcoming Challenges: Gender Pay Gap and Culture 11:56 The Importance of Listening 18:08 Reflections on Insults 22:48 Addressing Workplace Harassment 25:14 Learning from Failure 28:50 Unexpected Career Paths 32:00 Supporting Women in the Workplace

Episode 20 - Racheal Cadey

In this engaging interview, Racheal Cadey shares her journey through the construction and design industry, leadership lessons, overcoming unexpected challenges, and her vision for the future of construction. Discover practical insights, inspiring stories, and actionable advice from a seasoned industry leader. Racheal admits she’s a reluctant leader, driven more by her core values than a desire for the spotlight. But her authenticity shines through in her daily habits: setting clear boundaries, supporting her team, and constantly learning from those around her. Across decades of experience, Racheal shares her raw truths—how she filters the glitter from the gold, the lessons learned from tragedy, and her bold vision for the future of the industry. Her mantra? “Wife, mother, leader”—a holistic approach to leadership that transcends career alone. This blend of personal integrity and professional drive empowers her to lead with both heart and clarity. When life threw her its cruelest curve—a sudden, devastating loss—Racheal’s response revealed her greatest lesson: prepare for the unexpected, lean on your people, and keep moving forward. Her story about Sarah Myland, who passed away unexpectedly, is a testament to resilience. They built a legacy called “My Day”—a ritual to honour her spirit, and her memory. It’s a reminder that even in tragedy, we find purpose, community, and a new way to move onward. “I can filter gold from glitter,” an unforgettable phrase that perfectly captures her seasoned perspective. With decades of experience, she’s learned to recognise what truly matters: values, purpose, and the pursuit of impact. This clarity allows her to navigate growth and change without losing her core. Her recognition, acceptance, and balance RAB are her North Star. One of Racheal’s passionate pursuits is the Edge U-cation program which invests in students and young women, busting myths about industry roles from site to leadership. Racheal’s story is a powerful reminder: authenticity, resilience, and vision are the bedrock of impactful leadership. You don’t have to be perfect or fearless—just committed to showing up, learning, and supporting others on their journey. Takeaways: * Recognition, Acceptance, Balance—her guiding principles for self-awareness and managing relationships, careers, and personal growth. * Pause and reflect before responding to emails * Follow your own version of success and balance * Life’s surprises are inevitable—how you respond defines your resilience. Cherish your relationships, create meaningful rituals, and never underestimate the power of “onwards.” * True leadership isn’t about 'doing everything yourself' but about creating space for others to grow, supporting their muscle-building, and knowing when to pause and reflect. * As you grow and evolve, ask yourself: what is glitter—superficial distractions—and what is genuine gold? Focus on the impact and legacy you want to leave. Edge u cation - https://generationedge.co.uk/edge-ucation [https://generationedge.co.uk/edge-ucation] Chapters * 00:00 Introduction to Racheal Cadey and Generation Edge * 07:42 Reinventive Stage of Career * 12:53 Consistent Actions and Leadership * 22:48 Lesson from Job Experience * 30:11 Gender Diversity in SMEs * 36:03 Career Expectations and Realities

Episode 19 - Katrina Kostic Samen

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Katrina Kostic-Samen, a prominent figure in the commercial real estate industry. They discuss Katrina's career journey, her views on leadership versus management, the challenges she has faced, and the lessons learned along the way. Katrina emphasises the importance of mentorship, the unique challenges women face in leadership roles, and the realities of entrepreneurship. The conversation highlights the significance of resilience, adaptability, and the drive to succeed in a competitive industry.   Katrina shares her experiences with workplace bullying, the unexpected longevity of her career, and the resilience she developed through various crises. She emphasises the importance of empowering women in the construction industry and discusses her hopes for innovation and sustainability in the field.   Additionally, she explores the concept of rethinking work structures, including the potential benefits of a four-day work week, and offers valuable advice for young professionals navigating their careers. In discussing leadership, Katrina draws a distinction between being a leader and being a manager. According to her, leadership is an inherent quality that involves building consensus and guiding others, while management often focuses on task execution. She believes that true leaders emerge during crises, demonstrating their ability to navigate challenges effectively. Katrina shares valuable lessons from her extensive career, emphasising the importance of personal integrity and being proactive. She advises against discussing sensitive topics in public spaces, like elevators, and stresses the need to read everything before signing it, as your signature is your bond. In conclusion, Katrina’s journey is a testament to the power of reinvention in one’s career. By embracing change, understanding the nuances of leadership, and maintaining a focus on personal integrity, professionals can navigate the complexities of their careers more effectively. Takeaways: ·      Don't discuss sensitive topics in elevators. ·      Being called relentless can be a positive trait. ·      Striving for something above your means fosters growth. ·      The importance of speaking up against workplace bullying. ·      Read everything you sign! ·      Resilience is built through facing crises head-on. ·      Innovation in construction is necessary for growth. ·      Building a supportive culture is essential for employee retention. ·      Grace & kindness in professional settings can make a significant impact. Read the first article in the four-part series which explores how alternative workweek models are challenging long-held assumptions about time, productivity and the role of the office. https://www.savills.us/blog/article/389498/us-articles/fantasy--or-the-future--four-day-workweeks-could-be-reshaping-our-workplace.aspx [https://www.savills.us/blog/article/389498/us-articles/fantasy--or-the-future--four-day-workweeks-could-be-reshaping-our-workplace.aspx]   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Katrina 10:11 Leadership vs Management 17:17 Lessons Learned from Experience 19:57 Perceptions of Women in Leadership 22:10 Entrepreneurship and Women 24:54 Navigating Business Challenges 28:03 Facing Workplace Bullying 30:28 Unexpected Career Longevity 32:52 Resilience in Crisis 43:40 Rethinking Work Structures