National Apprenticeship Week: Subverting expectations of women in construction

MCRJourno

"My Grandad inspired me, but now I’m making my own mark on the construction industry."

Holly Hunting is an apprentice at Identity Consult in Salford, an independent development and construction consultancy.

She began her apprenticeship in September 2024 and shares her journey into the industry with MCRJourno.

I have always been drawn to a career in construction, influenced in part by my

Grandad who has enjoyed a long career as a Project Manager.

My own journey began in 2022 when I attended a FutureSkills event at MediaCity.

Initially, I enrolled in the Construction and the Built Environment Level 3 Extended

Diploma there, but soon moved to CitySkills in Salford, where the focus was more

construction-based.

Unlike my first course, which was primarily digital and creative,

CitySkills provided a more hands-on learning experience, with practical opportunities

alongside theoretical study.

That decision paid off and in 2024 I completed my course achieving a Distinction

(A*A*A) across my subjects.

The experience gave me invaluable real-world exposure to construction, reinforcing my passion for the industry.

Now, as part of the Identity Consult team, I work four days a week at our Salford

office, supporting the North West team while also collaborating with colleagues in

Preston, York, the West Midlands, and our head office in Sunderland.

I first connected with Identity Consult through my college’s work experience

coordinators and during a workshop, Gary Pinch of Identity Consult introduced us

to the world of client-side quantity surveying.

Holly Hunting

I found it fascinating and decided to send in my CV and I was offered a placement, followed by ultimately, a degree apprenticeship.

The most rewarding part of my apprenticeship has been the recognition and support

I’ve received.

During National Apprenticeship Week I’ll return to CitySkills to deliver the same presentation that first introduced me to this career path - a full-circle moment that feels incredibly special.

I recently led a training session on quantity surveying measurement software, presenting to a range of delegates that included external clients and directors.

This experience is preparing me for my future, particularly for the final stage of my apprenticeship, when I will pursue my RICS chartership.

I am so glad I took this path, and I cannot wait to see where it takes me next.