A Northamptonshire woman is building a career in construction in a new trainee assistant site manager role for Persimmon Midlands.

Caroline Swannell, from Little Harrowden, was offered the job on International Women’s Day and leapt at the chance to get on site at the company’s Cranford Chase development in Barton Seagrave.

“Sometimes people are surprised to see a woman on site, but that just gives me the drive to show them what I can do,” she said.

“I have always had a love for construction and previously worked on site with family members. I was actually training to be a bricklayer when the opportunity arose with Persimmon and I couldn’t wait to get stuck in.”

The 36-year-old worked in a range of different jobs before settling on the construction trade – and she is keen to show what a great industry it is for people of all ages.

“My ambition is to progress to become a fully-fledged site manager and build a long-term career in construction management. Persimmon offers a comprehensive in-house training programme, covering all aspects of the role, so I know I will always stay up to date on industry regulations and new techniques.”

“I intend to bring my attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction to deliver perfect houses for local people to live in.”

Tom Walker, construction director for Persimmon Midlands, added: “We have been very impressed with how quicky Caroline has settled into her new role. She is already making an impact out on site with her ‘can do’ attitude.

“Recruiting and developing the right people is key to Persimmon’s growth and progression, and the company has a proud history of training and promoting from within.

“We have our own structured career development programme – the Persimmon Pathway – designed to support employees from induction to excellence, and have recently gained accreditation to deliver our own NVQ programme for site managers, helping to build the workforce of the future.”

Persimmon Midlands operates new build homes developments across Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. For information on career opportunities with the company visit www.persimmonhomes.com/jobs/

PICTURED: Persimmon Homes Midlands trainee assistant site manager Caroline Swannell at the company’s Cranford Chase development.