Blog
Breaking Barriers: Encouraging the Next Generation of Women in Technical Trades – 05 Mar 2026
Last week, I had the privilege of speaking with a group of inspiring young women in Liberia who are exploring careers in construction, electrical work, plumbing, and other technical trades. For many of them, this was the first time someone had told them that these careers are not only possible—but that they belong in them.
The conversation was powerful because it highlighted both the potential and the barriers these girls face every day. Many grow up hearing that construction and engineering are “men’s jobs.” Some are discouraged by teachers, families, or communities who doubt their ability to succeed in technical fields. Others face practical challenges such as limited funding for vocational training or difficulty gaining clients who trust women in these roles.
But what stood out most was their determination.
Several of the girls I spoke with have already completed training in masonry, plumbing, or electrical installation. Others are just beginning their journey and came to learn what their future could look like. What they needed most was encouragement—real stories that show success is possible.
Representation matters. When girls see women building houses, installing wiring, or running their own technical businesses, it changes what they believe they can achieve. Confidence grows when they realize these skills are learnable and that others have walked the path before them.
The message I shared was simple: their ambitions are valid, their skills are valuable, and their presence in these industries is needed.
Progress starts when even one person believes they can do something different. And from what I saw, this group of young women is more than ready to lead that change.
Advancing Gender Balance in Leadership: Insights from Dr Roni Savage – 25th Feb 2026
Dr Roni Savage OBE FREng, CEO of Jomas Associates, recently appeared live on Sky News to discuss the latest findings from the FTSE Women Leaders Review. Her discussion highlighted significant progress in female representation at board level, while emphasising that sustained focus is still needed, particularly at executive leadership levels.
Board-level diversity has grown steadily, reflecting years of focused effort, clear targets, and transparent reporting. While this progress is encouraging, executive teams remain a key area for development, as these roles often hold the most influence over strategy, culture, and long-term organisational outcomes.
Dr Savage stressed that meaningful, lasting change requires both cultural and structural commitment. Inclusive organisational culture, combined with fair recruitment, promotion, and succession planning, creates pathways for women to reach executive leadership roles.
Diverse leadership is not only a social imperative but also delivers measurable business benefits. Research shows that teams with varied perspectives make better decisions, manage risk effectively, innovate faster, and enhance employee engagement. In sectors such as engineering, environmental consultancy, and land remediation, these benefits translate directly into stronger organisational performance.
Removing barriers to female leadership involves practical steps such as mentorship, sponsorship, leadership development programs, flexible working structures, and visible role models. At Jomas Associates, Dr Savage champions these initiatives to support talented women at every level.
Advancing gender balance is about more than metrics — it is about building resilient, forward-thinking organisations. Dr Savage’s insights underline the importance of sustained effort and commitment to inclusive leadership, inspiring organisations to drive meaningful change for the future.
Inspiring the Next Generation in Geotechnics – 2nd Mar 2026
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of speaking at the WiGeotech – Inspire an Engineer, an event organised by the British Geotechnical Association and hosted at the Institution of Civil Engineers. The event brought together professionals from across the geotechnical community—engineers, geologists, academics, contractors and students—with a shared goal: inspiring the next generation of engineers and building a more inclusive industry.
I joined a panel discussion focused on Championing Inclusion in Geotechnics, alongside leaders from across the sector. Our conversation explored what it truly means to create opportunities for people at different stages of their careers and how we can actively support diversity within technical fields.
One message stood out clearly: representation and visibility matter. When early career professionals and students see people who look like them leading projects, running businesses, and shaping the future of infrastructure, it expands what they believe is possible for themselves.
But inspiration alone is not enough. As an industry, we also have a responsibility to create environments where people feel supported, respected and able to contribute fully. That means building inclusive workplaces, challenging outdated perceptions about who belongs in engineering, and ensuring that talent—wherever it comes from—has the opportunity to thrive.
Events like this are important because they bring people together to share experiences, learn from different career journeys, and have honest conversations about the progress still needed.
I left the event feeling encouraged by the energy in the room. Seeing so many early-career professionals engaging in the discussion reminds me that the future of geotechnics is not only technically strong, but increasingly diverse, collaborative and forward-thinking.
A Night of Connection and Conversation at Drummonds
As the golden evening light filtered through the grand windows of Drummonds Bank in Charing Cross, something special was unfolding on Wednesday, June 25th. A handpicked group of women leaders in STEM and construction gathered not just to share a meal, but to engage in deep, meaningful conversation about the future of these industries—and their place in it.
This dinner followed the recent success of the Inspirational Women in STEM & Construction Awards, and was designed to keep the momentum going. The idea? To create space for authentic dialogue around the challenges we face, the progress we’ve made, and the possibilities ahead.
The setting couldn’t have been more perfect—Drummonds, with its timeless charm and quiet elegance, offered a beautiful backdrop for thoughtful reflection and honest conversation.
Around the table, stories were shared, challenges unpacked, and ideas exchanged. Topics ranged from everyday workplace experiences to systemic barriers and what real change could look like. What made it powerful wasn’t just the depth of the conversation, but the sense of unity in the room—a shared understanding that, while each journey is unique, the goal is collective.
“It felt like a safe, inspiring space to say the things we don’t always get to say—and to be heard,” one attendee remarked.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a sense that something important had started—or perhaps continued. New connections were made. Old ones were strengthened. And the commitment to driving change, both personally and collectively, was reaffirmed.
To everyone who attended: thank you for your open participation, your honesty, and your presence.
Let’s keep the conversation going—and keep building a future where women in STEM and construction not only belong, but lead.
Dr. Roni Savage on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Construction: A Sustainable Solution
At the recent ACEI Conference 2024, Dr. Roni Savage delivered a compelling speech on the significance of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within the construction industry. As an engineering geologist and a prominent figure in civil engineering, her insights were not only based on her extensive career but also her lived experience as the only black woman in the UK to run an engineering company of considerable size.
Equity Over Equality
Dr. Roni Savage emphasized the importance of equity over equality. She argued that while equality provides a level playing field, equity recognizes that individuals come from diverse backgrounds and need additional support to reach the same starting line. This distinction is crucial in creating a truly inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.
The Power of Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity is about embracing different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. However, Dr. Roni Savage pointed out that diversity often becomes a box-ticking exercise for organizations. True progress lies in inclusion—creating an environment where everyone feels valued and psychologically safe. She used the analogy of hosting a community party to explain the difference between diversity and inclusion. It isn’t just about inviting a diverse group of people but ensuring they feel welcome and included in the festivities.
Ireland’s EDI Performance
Dr. Roni Savage highlighted that only 9% of Ireland’s construction workforce is female, reflecting a significant gender gap in the industry. She challenged the audience to be intentional about increasing diversity and inclusion, not just for the sake of representation but as a solution to the industry’s challenges.
The Business Case for EDI
Citing a report by McKinsey & Company, Dr. Roni Savage noted that companies with diverse teams perform significantly better financially. Gender diversity leads to a 25% increase in performance, while ethnic minority diversity results in a 36% boost. These statistics underscore the economic benefits of fostering an inclusive workplace.
Addressing Ireland’s Challenges Through EDI
Dr. Roni Savage connected EDI to Ireland’s broader challenges, such as climate change, infrastructure, and housing. She argued that diverse perspectives are essential in finding innovative solutions to these issues. With a looming workforce shortage in construction, attracting underrepresented groups to the industry is not only equitable but necessary for meeting future demands.
Best Practices for EDI
Dr. Roni Savage concluded with actionable steps for improving EDI in the construction industry:
– Data Transparency: Accessible data on EDI is crucial for setting baselines and measuring progress.
– Inclusive Procurement: EDI should be at the core of procurement practices, encouraging a diverse supply chain.
– Community Engagement: Understanding the needs of diverse communities leads to more inclusive design and decision-making.
– Setting Targets: Just as there are climate targets, there should be EDI targets to hold the industry accountable.
Dr. Roni Savage’s speech at the ACEI Conference 2024 served as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of EDI in construction. By prioritizing equity, embracing diversity, and ensuring inclusion, the industry can not only address its current challenges but also pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Construction Engineering Business, Jomas Associates’ CEO, Dr Roni Savage named, as UK Government unveils new SME Council members.
The membership of the new Government led SME Business Council was unveiled this morning, as their first meeting was held at No10 Downing Street, Westminster.
The Council, chaired by Small Business Minister, Kevin Hollinrake MP, has been set up by the Government to reaffirm its commitment to the UK’s 5.6 million SMEs. The Council will serve as a forum for action orientated engagement between small businesses, representative organizations, and HMG, providing an opportunity for small businesses to shape actions in agreed priority areas, and give feedback on Government policy ambitions for UK small businesses.
The Council will be a powerful voice for small businesses within Government and has been tasked with overseeing three key areas – Access to finance, skills and support as well as, removing barriers (including access to procurement).
Jomas Associates, a business at the forefront of providing Engineering and Environmental solutions to the Construction Industry across the UK, are delighted to have this opportunity to contribute to shaping policy decisions that will empower SMEs, and drive growth in the economy.
Jomas’ CEO, Dr Roni Savage said “I am honoured to be invited to join the government led SME business council during this crucial juncture for many SMEs who are navigating various challenges, whilst aiming for growth. I aspire to amplify the voice of SMEs at various intersections, and to contribute to a movement that will deliver tangle results. Construction related businesses make up approximately 20% of all SMEs in the UK – It is important that barriers are removed to enable sustainable growth for these businesses, and for the economy.
Almost every business in the country is a small business (99.9%) who in turn support 27million jobs across the UK, accounting for £4.5 trillion of annual turnover. Almost every billion-pound company, tech giant or multinational corporation started off as small business, which is why this Council has been formed, to help support and nurture the next generation of small firms to thrive and grow.
With firms representing all corners of the UK, covering sectors including engineering, manufacturing, construction, food and drink, the new council aims to truly represent the makeup of UK industry.
Members of the council include;
• Michelle Ovens CBE Founder/CEO – Small Business Britain
• Neil Davy CEO – Family Business UK
• Tina McKenzie Policy Chair – Federation of Small Businesses
• Roni Savage CEO & Founder – Jomas Associates (Engineering) Ltd
• Andrew Bissell CEO – Sunamp
• Alan Lowry CEO – Environmental Street Furniture
• Debbie Williams Co-founder – John Williams Heating Servies Ltd
• Emma Heal MD – Lucky Saint
• Thomas Robson Kanu Founder – Turmeric Co
• Julianne Ponan MBE CEO – Creative Nature Superfoods
• Peter Davies MD – James Lister and Sons
• Gary Parlett Co-founder – Answer Digital
• Tania Boler Founder – Elvie
• Richard Marshall Founder – Pall Mall Barbers
• Elizabeth Vega CEO – Informed Solutions
• Tessa Clarke Co-founder – Olio
• Jordan Schwarzenberger Co-founder – Arcade Media
• Julie White MD- D-Drill
• Mike Bristow CEO – Crowd Property Ltd
Reference link – https://www.gov.uk/government/news/sme-council-membership-revealed-ahead-of-first-meeting
Build, Build, Build – 02 Jul 2020
Jomas Associates CEO Roni Savage took part in a high-level roundtable convened by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, alongside seven other senior leaders from across the infrastructure sector. The meeting formed part of the UK government’s broader engagement with industry stakeholders during the COVID-19 crisis, aiming to better understand the immediate challenges facing construction, engineering, and infrastructure delivery. Discussions focused on the operational disruptions caused by the pandemic, including supply chain instability, workforce limitations, and delays to major projects, all of which threatened the sector’s ability to contribute to national economic stability.
The roundtable also explored the types of government support required to enable a strong and sustainable recovery. Key themes included maintaining investment in infrastructure projects, accelerating planning and procurement processes, and ensuring that small and medium-sized enterprises within the supply chain could remain viable. Participants highlighted the critical role that infrastructure would play in driving post-pandemic economic growth, job creation, and regional development. By bringing together industry expertise and government leadership, the meeting aimed to shape policies that would not only stabilize the sector in the short term but also position it as a cornerstone of the UK’s long-term recovery strategy.
Calling All Businesswomen Working in STEM – 27th Jan 2020
Roni Savage, CEO of Jomas Associates, recently appeared on BBC Worklife as part of a campaign to celebrate female entrepreneurs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). In collaboration with the Federation of Small Businesses and NatWest, the initiative “Inspirational Business Women in STEM” encourages women across the sector to nominate themselves and gain recognition for their achievements. The campaign is rooted in findings from the Alison Rose Review of Female Entrepreneurship, which highlighted the underrepresentation of women in high-growth sectors, with only 24% of STEM roles held by women in the UK.
Addressing this imbalance could add up to £250 billion to the UK economy. In response, initiatives such as a £1 billion fund led by Alison Rose aim to support female-led businesses, while government targets seek to increase female entrepreneurship by 2030.
BBC The Apprentice
Roni Savage joined an esteemed panel of industry experts to advise Alan Sugar during the intense final stages of the 2019 series of The Apprentice. As candidates competed for a life-changing business investment, the decision-making process required careful evaluation of their strategies, leadership skills, and long-term potential. Roni contributed her professional insight and sector expertise, helping to assess the strengths and weaknesses of each finalist under pressure. The experience placed her at the heart of one of the UK’s most popular business programmes, where high-stakes decisions are made in real time. Her involvement highlights the growing recognition of accomplished entrepreneurs from diverse sectors, particularly women in engineering and business leadership. By participating in such a prominent platform, Roni not only supported the selection process but also helped showcase the importance of expert guidance in shaping future business success stories.
Exciting Snapshot of Roni’s 2018 Journey