The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has launched in Jersey and is inviting islanders to a drinks and canapes event on Thursday 12 May to explain what the organisation is aiming to achieve.

NAWIC, a not-for-profit, is dedicated to the advancement of women in the construction industry. It is run by a committee of volunteers who work within the construction industry.

The launch event, which Mourant is co-sponsoring, will explore what NAWIC has planned for the future. Through social, professional development and educational events they plan to provide a networking platform and highlight career options within the industry with the aim of inspiring more women to build a career in construction.

Although the association is women-focused, it is not only for women. Most of the events, including the launch drinks, are open to everyone and contributions from all who aspire towards a more gender-equal construction industry are valued.

NAWIC members will include architects, tradespersons, lawyers, engineers, surveyors, project managers, students, and many others working directly in construction or providing services to the industry.

Emily Marie from NAWIC Jersey explained why the association is so important: “Diversity and inclusion is hugely important for every business and the construction industry still has a long way to go to be more gender balanced. Hiring people from different backgrounds means you’ll have a team with a more varied skillset that will ultimately help enhance your business.’’

Lucy Le Moignan from NAWIC Jersey commented on the launch event: “Our aim in launching NAWIC Jersey is to see how together we can increase the number of women in the construction industry and improve the sector as a whole. We have been overwhelmed and incredibly encouraged by the positive response we have received to the launch event. We feel this shows there is a huge appetite for collaboration and an increase in networking opportunities in the Jersey construction industry. We would like to thank everyone for their current and ongoing support of NAWIC Jersey. Registration for the launch event is fully subscribed and now closed; however, we would encourage everyone to register on the website and attend our future events”

Julie Melia at Mourant Ozannes LLP said: “As a female-led Jersey property team, equity, diversity and inclusion is a core value for us. When engaging with the construction industry, we’re often struck by how few women there are and so we’re proud that Mourant has chosen to sponsor NAWIC Jersey to help shape a more gender-equal construction industry.”

If you’re interested in becoming a member of NAWIC Jersey, please follow this link: https://www.nawic.co.uk/membership

If you would like to find out about future events, please email jersey@nawic.co.uk to be included on their mailing list.