Women in Construction

April 11, 2025

Joanna Mulcahy, Lighthouse Construction Charity Trustee, discusses her aspirations for the industry and that ‘Bob the Builder’ moment!

Women in Construction Week promotes the role of women in our industry and is an opportunity to showcase industry ambassadors and their successes and achievements.

Joanna Mulcahy is a Commercial Director at Murphy’s, a leading global, multi-disciplined engineering and construction company. She is a resolute advocate for mentoring and developing the next generation of professionals and is deeply passionate about driving positive change within the sector. She is also a Lighthouse Charity Trustee.

We caught up with Joanna to discover a bit more about her aspirations for the industry and that insightful ‘Bob the Builder’ moment!

Tell us about your role at Murphys.

My journey began as an assistant quantity surveyor, and over the past two decades, I have held various roles within the Civil, Energy, Major Projects, and Transportation sectors of the business. As Commercial Director at Murphy’s, one of my key responsibilities is overseeing the ‘Great Grid Upgrade’ for National Grid which is the largest overhaul of the electricity grid in generations. We are one of seven industry partners appointed to deliver this significant programme of works, which aims to build the new electricity network infrastructure required to reduce the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels. This initiative is a brilliant opportunity to contribute to the nation’s energy infrastructure and drive sustainable development. The magnitude and pace of this project demand that we come together as an industry and adopt new ways of thinking and operating, which is incredibly exciting to be a part of.

Did you consider any other career path?

I attended an all girls’ convent school where programmes and career advice were limited. I was encouraged to either become a nun or a missionary, but neither path resonated with me. Initially, I considered a career in law, but my passion for the construction industry and the opportunities it presented led me to pursue this field. The dynamic nature of construction, combined with the ability to shape the built environment, solidified my decision to build a career in this industry.

What do you think are the biggest challenges for the construction industry today?

One of the biggest challenges is addressing the skills gap and ensuring that we have a workforce equipped with the necessary skills to meet the demands of modern construction. The industry must also continue to innovate and adopt sustainable practices to reduce its environmental impact. Navigating economic uncertainties and maintaining profitability while delivering high quality projects is also a significant challenge.

What one piece of advice would you share with women considering a career in construction?

Be confident in your abilities and seek out mentors and role models who can provide guidance and support. The construction industry offers diverse opportunities, and your unique perspectives and skills are valuable. Embrace these opportunities with confidence and curiosity, and you will discover that your potential is truly limitless. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo and strive for excellence in everything you do.

What can be done to encourage more women into construction?

Women make up approximately 15% of the construction workforce in the UK. This is a significant increase compared to previous years, but there is still a long way to go to achieve gender parity in the industry. To encourage more women into construction, we need to promote the industry as an inclusive and rewarding career choice from an early age. This involves engaging with schools and universities, showcasing successful female role models, and providing mentorship programmes…

Read more news and exclusive features in our latest issue here.