Southampton-based multi-utilities expert, Connect It Utility Services is marking Women in Construction Week by highlighting how the company’s diversity is instrumental in its growth and success. Shining a spotlight on some of the team, Connect It hopes to break down barriers to the historically male industry and encourage more women to consider careers in construction.
As a comprehensive Independent Connection Provider (ICP), Connect It works with housebuilders and developers across the country to implement the essential electric, gas and water connections needed to bring construction projects to completion. In an industry where no two projects are the same, and the challenges faced can be complex and varied, different perspectives, experiences and approaches are not simply a cultural decision, but the key to driving better outcomes.
Claire Figg, Contracts Admin Manager, is a strong example of how varied career pathways can thrive within the business. Working under the SSE framework, Claire manages nine jointing teams and oversees the relationship between Connect It and its framework partners, playing a key role in ensuring operational excellence and strong external partnerships.
Claire’s journey into construction was unexpected. After 14 years in credit control, she joined Connect It five years ago without a specific plan to enter the industry.
“I simply fell into construction, and I’m so glad I did,” she says. “When I joined in 2021, the company was growing rapidly. Because of my background, I was asked to set up the credit control function. I developed the system, built and trained the team, and later returned to the depots where I was promoted to Depot Manager.”
Since then, Claire has worked across multiple departments including AV, Marketing and Credit Control, gaining a well-rounded understanding of the business. She has also completed management training and electrical awareness courses and now heads up the Ops Engagement Team, leading a team of seven focused on strengthening engagement across Connect It’s on-the-ground workforce.
“For me, the most rewarding part of my job is not just keeping everything running smoothly day-to-day, but knowing I contribute to the growth and development of the business. I’m very much a ‘get things done’ person — my reward comes from knowing I’ve done the job properly.”
Civils Manager Jess Mudge also thrives on the problem-solving nature of the industry: “Seeing a project through from start to finish, overcoming the challenges along the way, and ultimately receiving thanks from the customer as the project concludes is what makes working at Connect It so rewarding. I’m trusted to approach the challenges and complete my work in my own way, giving me ownership of the process and a real sense of achievement.”
Jess reflects on her career so far: “When I first joined the industry, I didn’t think it would be supportive, but I’ve been genuinely surprised. At Connect It Utility Services, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside some very knowledgeable people who have taught me a lot. I’m proud that I had the confidence to train in a predominantly male industry, and that I’ve been able to learn and develop my skills to a level where I am now managing a team of my own.”
Senior Warehouse Operative, Lisa Cambridge-Taylore echoes Jess’s thoughts on the wider industry’s gender imbalance, recognising that this is now beginning to shift: “The industry is evolving, and it absolutely benefits from having more women thrive within it. It’s been fantastic to see the number of women growing within project management here at Connect It. I’d tell anyone that they shouldn’t be afraid to put themselves out there if this is something they want to pursue.”
Claire believes the industry has transformed significantly for the better: “Construction has become a far more inclusive and welcoming environment. There are real opportunities to develop your career if you’re willing to work hard, keep learning and have the confidence to go for it.”
Looking back, her advice to her younger self is simple: “Do a job that makes you happy. If you’re not happy, have the confidence to adapt, make a change and follow the path that feels right.”
Looking back on her time since joining Connect It, Lisa comments: “I wish I knew when I was younger how much I would enjoy working in the construction industry. I’m always excited to see what comes next at Connect It, whether it’s new contracts, new challenges or new opportunities to support the team. I enjoy the sense of camaraderie within the team and take real pride in knowing that the role I play in keeping operations running smoothly helps us to deliver successful projects on-site.”
Laban Giles, Managing Director at Connect It Utility Services, summarises how diversity drives the business forward: “The construction industry recognises that its talent pipeline is under pressure. Ensuring that we have the right culture, approach and opportunities to attract a diverse workforce can certainly help address this. At Connect It Utility Services, we’ve always recognised that our strength comes from our people and establishing a business where the best person for each job can succeed, regardless of gender, is the only way to grow effectively and sustainably.”
Through stories like Claire’s, Jess’s and Lisa’s, Connect It Utility Services is demonstrating that construction offers rewarding, flexible and progressive careers, and that a more diverse workforce is key to powering the industry’s future.
