IWD2026

International Women’s Day 💜 We are celebrating by passing the mic to the women shaping the future of Watkins MEP. 🎤✨

Whether it’s through mentorship, advocacy, or simply leading by example, the Watkins team are proof that the future of MEP is inclusive.

Helen says

“As we mark International Women’s Day, I’ve been reflecting on the journey that led me to my current role as Community & Apprenticeship Lead at Watkins Plumbing.

I joined Watkins in November 2022 as part of the HR team, following a career in Human Resources predominantly within Financial Services in the City of London. In July 2024, I moved into the Health & Safety team, which also gave me the opportunity to focus more closely on developing our community engagement and apprenticeship initiatives.

My move into this area was inspired by my best friend, Yvette, who works as a Social Impact Executive within the insurance industry. Listening to her talk about the difference her work was making really opened my eyes to the positive impact organisations can have within their communities.

When the opportunity arose at Watkins to help develop and progress our social value contribution, I was delighted to take it on. Supporting apprentices and strengthening our community connections is incredibly rewarding, and I’m very proud of the work we’ve done so far. I’m passionate about encouraging women and girls to consider careers within construction. Whenever I attend careers fairs, I make a point of speaking with female students about the opportunities available through apprenticeships and helping them see that the industry has a place for them.

“International Women’s Day is also a reminder of the importance of women supporting and inspiring one another. I’m grateful to have strong women in my life who have encouraged me to explore new directions in my career and to see the difference that purposeful work can make.””
— Helen

Lou says

“I joined the HSEQ department in July 2025, so I’m still fairly new to both the department and the role.

What I really enjoy about working in HSEQ is that no two days are ever the same. Every day brings something different, which keeps the role interesting and always gives me the chance to learn something new.

The best part is being part of such a supportive team. Everyone works together to keep things running smoothly and efficiently, and it makes a big difference knowing we all support each other.

On International Women’s Day, it’s a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contributions of women across the workplace and the positive impact they make every day.

We have some awesome Women in our Watkins team!”

Meg says

“This International Women’s Day, the theme “Give to Gain” highlights the impact that sharing knowledge, supporting one another, and working collaboratively can have on creating new opportunities.

I joined Watkins at the beginning of 2020 as a Document Controller, before moving into the HSEQ department a year later. Since then, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to be part of a team that actively supports development and progression, including helping to train and upskill women within the construction industry.

Alongside this, I’ve been able to continue my own studies and professional growth, with the encouragement to explore new ideas, embrace innovation, and continually learn. Being in an environment that values development and shared knowledge has made a huge difference in building both confidence and experience.

I’m incredibly proud to work directly alongside two fantastic women — Helen, our Community & Apprenticeship Lead, and Lou, our HSEQ Admin Coordinator — as well as many talented and inspiring women across the wider business.

Construction is an industry that continues to evolve, and it’s encouraging to see more opportunities being created for women. I feel incredibly fortunate to play a part in that through my role as HSEQ Advisor & Academy Lead, helping people build their skills, confidence, and opportunities for the future.”