An employee at Coalville-based developer David Wilson Homes East Midlands is marking International Women’s Day (8th March) by sharing her journey from office to site, as this year’s theme, ‘Give To Gain’, celebrates the importance of helping women thrive.
Georgia Hession, Trainee Assistant Site Manager at Drakelow Park
After joining David Wilson Homes in April last year, Georgia, a Trainee Assistant Site Manager from Ibstock, is focused on organising and overseeing the finishes of the homes at Drakelow Park in Derbyshire. She ensures each property is completed to the required standard and supports customers in the first 20 weeks in their brand-new home.
International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements of women across all industries, and this year’s theme, ‘Give To Gain’, highlights the power of reciprocity and support. The campaign recognises that when people, organisations and communities give generously, opportunities for women increase – and when women thrive, everyone benefits.
Since starting her career at 19 in an office-based role as an Estimator and Construction Secretary, Georgia discovered a passion for the operation side of the industry.
She said: “Throughout my years in working in construction, I have found myself drawn to the problem-solving and teamwork that happens every day on site and I jumped at the opportunity to see the operational side of site management up close.
“The Trainee Assistant Site Manager role really appealed to me because it combines everything I enjoy – working with people, coordinating tasks, learning technical skills, and being part of the visible results on site. I also wanted a role where I can keep growing, challenge myself, and build a long-term career.”
Reflecting on her journey so far, Georgia says her biggest achievement has been her progression and personal development.
She added: “Moving from an administrative role into a site-based position was a huge transition, and one I worked incredibly hard to earn. I was completely new to how a construction site operates, but over time I have been building more confidence and taking on more responsibilities.
“What I’m most proud of isn’t just the job title – it’s the development behind it. A key milestone for me has been supporting the team at Drakelow Park, which achieved a prestigious Seal of Excellence award from the National House Building Council last year.”
Speaking about her experience as a woman in construction, Georgia has come to appreciate the value of diverse perspectives on site.
She continued: “Over the years, I’ve realised that being a woman gives you a slightly different perspective, and that’s helped me to grow. Some of the skills I naturally brought to the role – organisation, attention to detail, and being approachable – were genuinely valued, which gave me the confidence to think I could contribute more directly on site.”
While she acknowledges that construction has traditional been a male-dominated industry, Georgia believes that balance is improving.
“There are more women coming into technical and site-based positions and I continue to meet more and more female Assistant Site Managers, Site Managers, and apprentices.
“Seeing other women take on these roles has made the idea of progressing in my career more achievable. It shows that the industry is opening up and becoming more inclusive.
“Encouraging more women into construction is vital because the more diverse teams are, the better they work. When people with different perspectives are involved, it creates a more balanced, positive environment and helps the industry continue to grow and improve.”
Georgia feels the housebuilding sector offers strong opportunities for women, and praised David Wilson Homes in particular for the support she’s received.
She said: “My managers and colleagues have been very supportive, they are focused on helping people grow, regardless of gender. The company invests in training, mentorship, and clear development pathways, which make it easier for women to progress into roles that might have seemed less accessible in the past.
“Sometimes just seeing another woman in the role makes a big difference and when women feel included and backed by their team, they’re able to thrive.”
Offering advice to other women considering a career in construction, she added: “Have confidence in yourself and remember that you absolutely belong here. You don’t have to know everything on day one, you just need to be willing to learn, ask questions, and get involved.
“Some of the opportunities that feel the most intimidating end up being the most rewarding. Be yourself, share your perspective and strengths – they can make a real difference on a project and within a team.”
For more information about careers at David Wilson Homes, visit the website at Barratt Redrow Careers.
For further information about any developments in the area, visit the website at David Wilson Homes in Leicestershire.
