Sir Ian Dixon Scholarship winner

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Research CIOB scholars push progress

Claire Mullen receives this year’s Sir Ian Dixon scholarship to boost research into gender equality

The 2021/22 Sir Ian Dixon scholarship has been awarded to Claire Mullen, a chief engineer and chair of the gender affinity network at Sir Robert McAlpine.

Mullen was responsible for delivery of the external works on the Battersea phase 3A development. She was the winner of the National Association of Women in Construction Award 2012 and works to promote STEM subjects within schools.

Her scholarship project is titled: ‘Engaging men as agents of change to achieve gender equality in the construction industry’. Across the UK women are underrepresented in the industry: only 4% of tradespeople, 7% of CIOB members and 10% of chartered civil engineers identify as female.

Mullen says a team with differences in gender, background and outlook creates a more resilient workforce capable of withstanding challenges: “My proposal has the potential to effect change not just in the workplace but in society overall – by engaging with everyone it is hoped that a roadmap of gender equality will be set out for future generations.”

Her research will: explore why barriers exist to attract, retain and promote women in the industry; assess the extent of gender inequality and project what the future should look like; and present solutions and a roadmap for a more equitable industry in the UK.

The two 2020/21 Sir Ian Dixon scholars were Mackenzie Thompson and Eugene Healy.

Thompson’s research was ‘How can temporary towns and architecture provide a place of architectural quality whilst temporarily being on a site?’ She graduated in July 2019 with a degree in architecture and now works as a Part I architectural assistant focusing on the retail and residential sector.

Healy explored ‘Creating value through contractor design in large scale infrastructure projects.’ He works as an associate architect and has spent the last 10 years in architectural consultancy delivering the designs for rail and infrastructure projects for HS2, Crossrail, Thames Tideway and Network Rail. He currently leads a number of infrastructure projects for Weston Williamson architects. ●

For more details on the scholarship see www.ciob.org/scholarships/ sir-ian-dixon-scholarship.

Left, from top:

2021/22 scholar Claire Mullen and 2020/21 scholars Eugene Healy and Mackenzie Thompson

CIOB VIRTUAL ADAPT & THRIVE CONFERENCE

On 24 March a CIOB virtual conference will explore how the global built environment needs to transform post covid-19.

Speakers from industry bodies, government officials, key influencers from the construction industry and tech companies will share visions for achieving an agile and productive industry.

They will tackle questions such as: What will the industry look like post pandemic? How does the built environment sector need to change to meet the changing needs of society? How can the industry adapt to futureproof both itself and the buildings it creates?

Digital technology and modernisation is key to future success. The industry needs to reimagine the next normal to create a built environment fit for all.

Register at events@ciob.org.uk.

CIOB Sir Robert McAlpine receives CBC status

Accreditation highlights company focus on quality

Following a lengthy and independent assessment, Sir Robert McAlpine has received Chartered Building Company status from the CIOB.

This accreditation is evidence of its ongoing commitments to upholding the highest standards of ethics and professional services, for its clients, its supply chain partners and their people. It further enhances the existing programme of professional development within the organisation to establish a fully qualified workforce.

As a chartered builder, the company will now benefit from the support of the CIOB in developing tailored specialist training. This is particularly valuable with the imminent introduction of the Building Safety Bill, and the growing need for construction professionals to be trained to high standards for fire safety and security.

It will also allow Sir Robert McAlpine to play a more significant part in leading by example on best practice across the industry and helping to shape the future of construction.

Alison Cox FCIOB, executive director of engineering and technical services, commented: “We are thrilled to receive this prestigious accreditation. We value our longstanding relationship with the CIOB, one of the leading and most influential bodies for construction management and leadership, and this is further validation of our ongoing focus on quality.

“This clearly demonstrates to our clients and our business partners that we are serious about delivering excellence across the board. For our people, it highlights our support to their ongoing professional development.”