Breaking barriers: Romana’s journey into house building with NHBC

A surprising career path into house building

Romana Brodzinska, 33 from Seacroft in Leeds never set out to work in construction. In fact, it was something she stumbled upon by chance. It turned out to be one of the best decisions she ever made.

“I never planned to go into house building,” she admits. “It was accidental, but I don’t regret it for a second.

“Four years ago, I started as a Site Coordinator, then progressed to an Assistant Site Manager. Now, I’m in discussions about stepping up to a full Site Manager role. It’s been an incredible journey.”

Originally living in Cambridge, Romana relocated to Yorkshire in search of new opportunities. The move happened in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, making job hunting especially challenging.

“I was looking for a job at a really tough time,” she recalls. “There wasn’t much available, but eventually, I found a position with Watkin Jones as a Site Secretary and Coordinator. I’ve been with them ever since and I haven’t looked back.”

Recognition for excellence: NHBC Construction Site Supervisor of the Year Award

Romana’s hard work, determination and outstanding leadership skills have not gone unnoticed. She was awarded Highly Commended for the NHBC Construction Site Supervisor of the Year Award. Judges praised her highly organised, communication-led and proactive approach to site management.

“This recognition means so much to me,” Romana says. “It’s proof that the effort I’ve put into developing my skills and managing sites to the highest standards is being recognised. NHBC has been instrumental in helping me grow in my career and this award only motivates me further to continue excelling in the industry.”

An NHBC apprenticeship: A flexible and supportive experience

As Romana’s career progressed, she decided to enrol in NHBC’s Construction Site Supervisor apprenticeship to further develop her skills. The experience proved invaluable.

“The NHBC Construction Site Supervisor Apprenticeship was a great option because I could do it during working hours,” she explains. “We had study days on a Monday, so I’d work from home, then return to the site on Tuesday. The flexibility was a huge benefit. I didn’t have to sacrifice my weekends, which was important after a busy working week. The teachers were incredibly supportive and the knowledge I gained was invaluable.”

The apprenticeship took just over a year to complete, with the final exam stages wrapping up in about four months. The experience gave Romana the confidence and qualifications she needed to take her career to the next level.

Encouraging more women into construction

As a woman in a male-dominated industry, Romana understands the challenges women might face when considering a career in house building. However, she strongly believes more women should take the leap.

“I would 100 percent encourage more women to enter house building and choose it as a career,” she says. “We bring a different perspective with strong organisational skills and attention to detail that can really make a difference. It’s not about saying men don’t have those skills, but sometimes women notice different things or look at things differently.

“I think some women are hesitant because they don’t see as many other women joining the industry as men. Personally, it doesn’t bother me, but I understand why it could be a barrier. That’s why we need more women in house building to change that perception and show that this industry is for everyone.”

A rewarding career with endless opportunities

Romana is passionate about promoting the benefits of working in house building.

“There are incredible opportunities in the house building industry including potentially great pay, career progression and multiple roles,” she says. “I never realised this before I made the move, but now I have, every day I see how rewarding it is. Watching a building go up from start to finish in just two years is an incredible process to be part of.”

Her message to women considering a career in construction is clear:

“If you want a career with real progression, house building is a fantastic industry. It’s a hidden gem that more people, especially women, should explore. The opportunities are out there, you just have to go for it!”