Jess White's 1-Year Anniversary
Life at Atkins Search
The NWIC June Luncheon 2025, held on Thursday 5th June at the iconic Trent Bridge Cricket Ground in Nottingham, brought together some of the region’s most inspiring professionals from across the construction and built environment sectors.
Laura Belcher, Operations Director, represented Atkins Search as an advocate for diversity and inclusion in construction as well as recruitment.
A Powerful Afternoon for Women in Construction
Hosted at Derek Randall Suite at Trent Bridge, the luncheon was a vibrant afternoon of networking, empowering women in construction and collaboration. Guests were welcomed with fizz, treated to a buffet-style lunch, and indulged in coffee and cakes while engaging in meaningful conversations.
Laura brings a values-led, people-first approach to construction recruitment, she listens, understands the challenges women face, and champions better pathways for progress.
Key Takeaways from the Luncheon
The event highlighted the importance of:
- Championing women in construction at every level, from apprenticeships to boardrooms
- Creating safe and equitable workplaces
- The role of specialist recruiters, like Atkins Search, at improving hiring practices
- Building authentic professional networks that drive career progression
This year’s luncheon also raised funds for Juno Women’s Aid, with the charity’s working to protect and empower women affected by domestic abuse.
Why Events Like This Matter
Last year, the Office for National Statistics reported that just over 15% of the UK construction workforce is made up of women. While this is a welcome increase from the 12% reported in 2022, it’s clear the construction industry is still grappling with gender imbalance. Therefore, events such as the Nottingham Women in Construction Luncheon offer much-needed space for reflection and action by bringing together industry-leading women from across roles such as engineering, project management, design, and quantity surveying. The event highlighted the importance of diversity and equality by driving a greater awareness, increasing opportunities, and initiatives aimed at promoting women in construction.
Laura Belcher’s engagement at the luncheon further amplified the message that inclusive hiring and leadership are key to the industry’s future success.
Atkins Search Recruitment
Atkins Search is a Nottingham-based construction recruitment agency providing Permanent, Temporary, and Retained Search recruitment solutions across the East Midlands, West Midlands, North West, London, and Yorkshire. Recognised as one of the UK’s most trusted recruitment partners, we specialise in recruitment for the built environment. With a passion for ethical recruitment and long-term partnerships, we are known for helping both candidates and clients create opportunities that lead to growth and diversity in teams.
Laura Belchers involvement in events like the NWIC Luncheon showcases our commitment to shaping a stronger, more inclusive construction industry. If you want to be involved in this movement, partner with us today.
The Nottingham Women in Construction (NWIC) June Luncheon 2025 was a statement that change is happening, and that women like Laura Belcher are helping lead the conversation.
For those who missed it, the momentum continues. Keep an eye on NWIC’s future events and follow industry leaders for more opportunities to connect, collaborate, and create change.
