At just 13 years old, Shania delved into the world of building modelling through a STEM Club at St. Ambrose Barlow RC High School in Manchester, setting the stage for a transformative experience.

Opting for the Design Engineer Construct! (DEC) Level 2 at GCSE, her keen interest in the subject deepened, leading to an outstanding A* achievement. Undeterred by challenges, she continued her exploration by choosing DEC Level 3 during sixth form, alongside Math and Business Studies.

Immersed in the dynamic environment of the Built Environment industry, she seized invaluable opportunities for hands-on experience, including a work placement at Laing O’Rourke, contributing to major projects like Manchester Airport’s Terminal 2.

DEC drew the attention of industry leaders from Renaker, opening doors to apprenticeships and furthering her journey in construction management. Now, at 23, she stands at the forefront of shaping Manchester’s skyline, having played integral roles in prestigious projects like 100 Greengate, Castle Wharf, and The Blade.

“I absolutely love my job! … I’m still only 23 years old and so grateful my school offered DEC – I wouldn’t be where I am today, being involved in the transformation of Manchester’s skyline. It’s something I am so proud to have been part of from a young age – and something I hope more of Manchester’s young people will be inspired to do.”

Elizabeth’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of education within the construction industry. Her path commenced at Cronton Sixth Form College, where she excelled in a BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Engineering and achieved a Grade A in a TQUK Level 3 Diploma in Design Engineer Construct!

These educational foundations equipped her with essential knowledge and ignited her passion for architectural design, civil engineering, and construction management.

Embracing diverse volunteering opportunities and community engagement activities, Elizabeth delved into the practical aspects of the field, from evaluating construction drawings to participating in residential development site activities.

Joining BAM as an Apprentice Site Manager in 2022 marked a pivotal moment in her career, propelling her into high-profile projects like the First Street Plot 9a development in Manchester.

“My story, though just one among many, symbolises the potential for women to thrive and succeed in construction… I’m grateful for the opportunities, experiences and people who’ve believed in me along the way.”

Freya’s DEC journey started at Cronton Sixth Form College with Design Engineer Construct! complemented by a BTEC Diploma in Engineering.

Having achieved top marks across DEC and her BTEC, she began searching for a degree apprenticeship in project management. A dynamic young woman with so much promise – but her next steps to employment were frustrating.

With the guidance of her college tutors, she found her way through the application process and now, three years later, she’s completed her Foundation Degree and progressing well through her apprenticeship.

“Choosing an apprenticeship was the best decision I made, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to kickstart their career in project management. The combination of practical work experience and academic learning has been invaluable in developing my skills and knowledge within the industry.”

Claire’s journey into the introduction to the world of construction began with the Design Engineer Construct! (DEC) Level 2 course at Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School in London.

Initial thoughts of construction as being ‘hard hat and muddy boots’ quickly changed with the exploration of captivating careers including project management, sustainability, planning and quantity surveying.

Completing DEC with an exceptional A* grade opened doors to valuable industry experiences, with a pivotal week shadowing commercial managers at Turner and Townsend, further solidifying the decision to pursue a career in quantity surveying.

The unique insights gained from DEC proved instrumental in navigating the challenging process of securing a coveted 5-year degree apprenticeship in Commercial Management at Mace during the uncertainties of 2020.

From contributing to landmark projects like 40 Leadenhall Street to the dynamic realm of Microsoft data centres, Claire excelled and was recently recognised as Mace’s ‘Apprentice of the Year’ and ‘Commercial Management Apprentice of the Year.’

“If there is any advice I can offer young people, I would say, “Look at the construction industry – there are so many roles available all over the world, so many opportunities for career progression, and so many exciting projects that you can work on. Everything you can think of involves construction, from houses, schools, and skyscrapers to football stadiums, water parks, and Formula 1 racetracks.

It’s an amazing place to work.”

Laura’s transformative journey began with the Design Engineer Construct! (DEC) course around 2014. Initially uncertain about a career in construction, the allure of assignments and continuous learning gradually kindled a genuine fondness for the subject.

The DEC program at Level 3 facilitated interactions with industry professionals, providing invaluable work experience and coursework guidance. It also led to national recognition in the “Vision Hope School” competition, where Laura and her classmates secured second place.

Despite facing challenges during A Levels, particularly in Maths and Physics, DEC emerged as a steadfast anchor, resulting in an A* achievement and paving the way for enrollment in the BSc Hons Architecture course at the University of Salford.

The subsequent five years at university unfolded as a rollercoaster of hard work, tears, and triumphs, culminating in a First Class Honours in undergraduate studies and a Distinction in Master’s in Architecture.

Now, at 24, employed as an Architectural Assistant at a progressive practice in Manchester, Laura reflects on a decade of remarkable experiences, from being nominated for the 2021 RIBA Dissertation Medal to contributing to COP27 and participating in international exhibitions.

“I can’t believe how much I have experienced in the past 10 years. My 14-year-old self would never believe me if I told her that her hunch in Year 9 to choose DEC would’ve taken her on such a thrilling adventure.”

Alizah was always going to choose Medicine. It was expected of her. But with the encouragement of her teacher to ‘try something new’ and join the DEC class, she discovered a whole new world – and a world of great opportunities.

Now emerged from Heriot-Watt University with a First Class Masters in Civil Engineering, Alizah is an incredible role model who has proven that girls can achieve anything if they set they minds to it.

“I thought Medicine was the best choice for myself and my future – little did I know that God had planned something far more greater for me, something that I would enjoy doing!”

Amy’s DEC adventure began at an after-school club at Le Rocquier School in Jersey. Under the guidance of her dedicated teachers, the early DEC experience and exploration led to her selecting it as a GCSE subject at Le Rocquier.

Enriched by in-class visits from industry professionals and captivating field trips to iconic London landmarks, including the Battersea Power Station and the Copper Box at the London Olympic Park, Amy’s journey took on a dynamic and hands-on dimension.

The commitment to DEC continued into A-levels at Hautlieu School, guided by DEC Teacher Mr Forestiero and supported by ROK’s industry adopter, Richard de Gruchy. Amy’s understanding of construction deepened through industry-standard software and interactions with professionals, culminating in valuable work experiences with ROK and an impactful role as a DEC mentor for fellow students.

Amy’s story comes full circle as she now works for ROK and has embarked on a degree in Construction Management with University College Jersey in partnership with London South Bank University, a testament to the enduring impact of DEC and the unwavering support from teachers and industry professionals.

“I was thrilled to have work experience with ROK twice while at school. These opportunities allowed me to experience the practices that I was learning about, which helped me to understand further and learn new ideas that were later discussed in class.”

Lauren’s story started at 12 years old, when, encouraged by her teacher, Daniel McDonagh, she joined the St Ambrose Barlow R C High School lunchtime STEM club. It was here that she discovered ‘Design Engineer Construct!’.

St Ambrose was one of the first DEC schools to deliver the newly approved qualifications and supported by Laing O’Rourke through Class Of Your Own’s ‘Adopt A School’ scheme.

Lauren proved herself to be a natural engineer with a real passion for problem solving. With a raft of excellent GCSE results and an A* in DEC, she could have gone on to study A levels, but instead, opted for an Advanced Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering.

Her career went from strength to strength, completing her apprenticeship with top grades and then progressing to Liverpool John Moore’s University to pursue a 5 year degree apprenticeship in Civil and Structural Engineering.

She graduated with a First Class Honours Degree and this year, at only 24 years years old, achieved her Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status.

“I’m only 24 years old and I’ve spent half my life working towards a career in an industry that I really love. I hope my story inspires other young people to do the same.”

Steph’s route into DEC was very different to most. Unable to start DEC when it was first launched at Heathcote School (she was the year above the first class), she was fortunate to have her uncle, a DEC teacher, and her mum, a DEC Technician to support her through her studies at home.

Leading Cost Consultancy Gardiner & Theobald had adopted the school and agreed to a work experience placement. Steph returned for the following three years until she was offered a formal position at the firm as their first Project Management Apprentice.

Steph went on to complete a degree in Construction Management BSc, qualify as a Chartered Surveyor and was presented with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors’ Apprentice of the Year award in 2022. Her career has gone from strength to strength – a beacon of what’s possible through a determination to study the DEC programme, against the odds.

“I want to carry on that legacy… get more girls who, like me, thought they have no place in construction, to not only be a part but to lead the change of that mindset.”

Drew’s DEC adventure commenced in Charleston Academy, Inverness. While studying DEC Levels 1 and 2 (the latter comparable to a Scottish Higher), she inspired children from a young age to explore careers in STEM.

After achieving A* grades at both levels, she progressed to The University of Edinburgh to study Architecture with a burning ambition to design eco schools in developing nations.

Always one to seize opportunity, Drew has completed an internship at Ryder Architecture, participate in a workshop led by the esteemed architect Carme Pinós, travelled to Paris to study renowned architectural designs across the city and very recently, secured a place to study at the renowned Politecnico di Milano in 2025.

“On International Women’s Day, I’m reminded of the importance of diversity and inclusion in our industry. Grateful for the opportunities and support I’ve received, I acknowledge that my voice, alongside others, contributes to our collective commitment to equality. Together, we can facilitate a future where the opportunity for excellence knows no boundaries.”