Leah joined the team with a clear passion for construction and a determination to challenge stereotypes. With precision, professionalism, and a love for her craft, she’s become a valued member of our site team, working across a range of projects from refurbishments to new builds.
“Leah is a brilliant example of what the industry needs more of,” says one of her colleagues. “She’s skilled, hardworking, and brings a fresh perspective to the team.”
Bricklaying is a discipline that demands strength, accuracy, and teamwork—and Leah consistently delivers on all fronts. Whether she’s restoring heritage masonry or helping deliver high-quality finishes on school refurbishments, her commitment to excellence shines through.
But her role at Oliveti is more than just bricks and mortar. As one of the few women in the trade, Leah is also inspiring others—proving that gender is no barrier to success in construction. Her presence on site is helping to reshape perceptions, both within the industry and among the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
We believe talent should be recognised and nurtured, regardless of background—and Leah’s journey is a reminder of why it’s so important to make construction a welcoming career choice for all.
From Foundations to Futures: Leah Builds a Path for Women in Construction
Getting Started
1. What inspired you to become a bricklayer?
I’m dyslexic and always knew I preferred hands-on work. I started with a multi-skills course, doing one day a week at Winstanley College — just two hours a week — but I loved it. I earned a distinction there and in cooking too. Later, I went to Leicester College on my uncle’s recommendation. I studied a range of trades: bricklaying, plastering, carpentry, painting, and decorating. Eventually, I focused on bricklaying and completed both an NVQ Level 1 and Level 2.
2. How did you first get into the construction industry?
I started out labouring for a bricklayer for a year. It was tough to find steady work, so I worked at Welcome Break Services for a while. Then someone I knew who worked at Oliveti recommended me to the small works team — and they gave me a shot.
3. Did you always know you wanted to work in a trade, or did it develop over time?
It definitely developed over time. At school, when we filled out career interest forms, I ticked the box for construction. My teacher actually asked me if I’d done it by mistake
Life on Site
4. What does a typical day look like for you on site?
I work closely with a teammate, and we go out to different sites for a range of jobs. Every day is different, and I really enjoy it. The early starts can be tough, but once I’m up and out, I always have a laugh and make the most of it.
5. What do you enjoy most about bricklaying?
Being outdoors, getting stuck in, and the freedom that comes with the job. I love the variety and that there’s always something new to learn.
6. What’s been your favourite project at Oliveti so far?
I really enjoyed doing fresh brickwork — starting from scratch. And I like chatting with residents. It’s nice to have a bit of a conversation with the people we’re helping.
Challenges and Perception
7. What’s it like being a woman in a male-dominated trade?
Honestly, I enjoy proving people wrong. I like showing that I can do the job just as well.
8. Have you faced any challenges, and how have you overcome them?
Yes, getting started was hard. I struggled to find work and faced some discrimination — people made assumptions just because I’m a girl. Even now, when I tell people socially what I do, they often don’t believe me!
9. How do your teammates support you on site?
They’re great — very accepting. Sometimes I need a bit of extra height, and we joke about it. We always have a laugh.
Looking Ahead
10. What advice would you give to other young women thinking about a career in construction?
Go for it! It’s the best decision I’ve made. You can still have your eyelashes and nails done — it doesn’t stop you being yourself. It keeps you fit, it’s always a laugh, and it’s great for your mental health. Just don’t take things too personally and always stand your ground.
11. Where do you see yourself in the next few years? Are there any skills or roles you’re keen to explore?
I’d like to get into plastering more and I’m definitely open to promotion.
12. What would you say to employers who aren’t sure how to encourage more women into the industry?
Let us crack on — don’t make it a big deal. Reach out to schools early, even as early as Year 6. That’s when you can really start to change perceptions.