The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has officially announced the shortlist for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2025, an initiative that continues to spotlight the exceptional contributions of women across the sector.
Now in its fourth year, the awards programme not only celebrates the achievements of women at all levels within the construction industry but also works to make female role models more visible and accessible to those considering a career in the sector.
The National Association of Shopfitters and the Institute of Carpenters are proud to share that James Filus, Director of both the NAS and IOC, is serving as a judge for this year’s awards – helping to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women who are shaping the future of construction.
The final list of the Top 100 will be revealed at the awards ceremony taking place on Thursday 18th September 2025 at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel in Manchester. Shortlisted individuals and nominators whose submissions resulted in shortlisted entries will receive complimentary tickets to attend. Additional tickets can be purchased here.
Award Categories
The awards span 17 categories, recognising women from every corner of the industry:
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Local Hero – Celebrating women making a significant impact at a local or regional level through community engagement, SME growth, or advocacy.
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One to Watch – Highlighting rising stars who have shown exceptional promise, leadership, and innovation within their first three years in the industry.
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Woman on the Tools – Recognising tradeswomen who demonstrate excellence, skill, and leadership in their craft.
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Most Influential Ally Group – Celebrating collective efforts from groups (inclusive of all genders) actively supporting women in construction.
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Most Influential Contractor Leader – Honouring leadership within contracting, from main contractors to specialist trade leaders.
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Most Influential Designer – Highlighting leadership in architecture, engineering, or related design fields.
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Most Influential Client – Recognising client-side women who are driving transformation across the construction landscape.
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Most Influential Educator in Construction – Acknowledging those shaping the future through teaching, mentoring, or training.
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Most Influential SME/Trade Leader – Celebrating women at the helm of small to medium-sized businesses or independent specialist trades.
This year’s shortlist reflects the growing diversity in construction, with more women joining and excelling in the sector. In fact, the number of women starting construction apprenticeships has risen from 1,450 in 2018–19 to 2,420 in 2023–24 – a strong indication that efforts to create a more inclusive industry are gaining traction.
Deborah Madden, Executive Director of Nations Engagement at CITB, commented:
“It’s vital we foster an inclusive and welcoming space that recognises and celebrates the achievements of women in the construction industry, acknowledging the diverse experiences, contributions, and leadership that shape our sector. That is exactly what the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction awards are all about”
The NAS and IOC commend all those who have been shortlisted and extend congratulations to everyone contributing to a more equal and dynamic construction industry. You can find the shortlist in it’s entirety on CITB’s site here.
