AN EXCLUSIVE event for female customers welcomed over 200 women to Coventry Job Shop to mark International Women’s Day.
The ‘I Can’ event focused on highlighting women’s roles in industries traditionally over-represented by men.
It showcased female leaders in fields such as construction, the armed services, logistics and digital, aiming to create a platform for successful women to motivate Coventry residents to explore new and promising sectors.
Notable employers included Hill Group, Balfour Beatty Vinci, West Midlands Police, Mclaughlin and Harvey, Octavius, West Midlands Fire, Prune Software and Tarmac.
Speakers from these organisations showcased their personal journeys and spoke about their achievements throughout their careers.
Additionally, Coventry Adult Education, Coventry College, NIS Group, RMF and Challenge TRG-Skills were on hand to offer valuable advice on relevant training programs and educational opportunities.
Current figures that show that 84 per cent of men dominate the construction industry, 81 per cent in the logistics sector and around 83 per cent in Digital Software Engineering roles.
Coun Dr Kindy Sandhu, Coventry City Council’s cabinet member for education and skills, said: “The ‘I Can’ exclusive event for females was an important and momentous way to mark International Women’s Day.
“I heard some really powerful stories on the day from some wonderful women who are looking to start new careers. I also heard from some employers about all the brilliant things they have achieved so far, which was really inspiring for everyone there.
“We are really serious about supporting women into careers that have good jobs, offer good pay, good terms and conditions and in careers where they feel they can belong and thrive.
“Thanks to this event, local women are now equipped with the right advice, support, information and most of all confidence to go and try something new and exciting. I wish them all the best of luck on their future pathways.”
Attendees had the opportunity to participate in a dynamic jobs fair, where they were able to apply for live vacancies and engage with skills providers to talk about the necessary qualifications needed for these exciting career paths.
Sam Wraith, Stakeholder and Social Value Manager at Octavius, said: “It was such a pleasure to be a part of the event. It was a privilege to speak in such a fantastic facility, full to the brim with inspirational speakers and listeners.
“We all had different back stories, are on different journeys and facing different challenges. The Job Shop bought us all together to unite us as one to share our experiences and be part of IWD 2025. It was a great turn out for a fabulous event”.
Attendee Elysha Coulson said: “The event was very informative and inspiring. I’d really like to attend something similar in the near future.”
To find out more work and training opportunities, drop into the Job Shop on Smithford Way to speak to one of the Employment Coaches, email [email protected] or call 024 7678 5740.
