Bricks, Bias, and Breakthroughs: Jasmine's Construction Career
Today, on World Safety and Health Day, we are excited to share an interview with Jasmine Ruttledge, a remarkable self-employed female tradesperson. Jasmine’s journey in construction is full of achievements and challenges, making her an inspiring figure for women entering this male-dominated industry.
As a self-employed female tradeswoman, what inspired you to enter the construction industry, which is traditionally male-dominated?
Throughout the lockdown, I was working at a high fashion clothing store. I had worked there for 3 years and was progressing to become a Team Leader. Unfortunately, the store went into administration, and I was made redundant without notice. Soon after, I met my partner who ran a construction company. He offered for me to come in and do site cleaning, however, within a week, he had me learning how to use the tools and getting stuck in. I loved it so much, that I started working full-time within a matter of weeks.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the construction trade, and how have you overcome them?
There are so many challenges within the industry, most of which I would have never imagined before getting involved. With being a woman, there’s a stereotype of being weak. I have had many comments about whether I’m strong enough to lift blocks, to carry aggregate, to wheelbarrow dirt. A few males who have worked with me on-site have often offered to carry heavy items for me, unintentionally belittling me. I have since adjusted my mindset and know I don’t need to prove myself, so allow them to carry the heavy items if they so desire.
The thing I despise most about being a woman in the industry is the sexualised comments. I’ve had to report many males working in building yards due to comments made whilst they were on shift. One male found me on social media and shared my photo onto his page with a rather rude comment. This was dealt with in hand by his company, however, I still do not believe him going through extra training sorted this matter.
There will always be comments made by various people, however I have found it’s best to just hold your head up high and laugh at them, rather than with them. Nobody should have to put up with the amount that women do in the building trade. Women in the industry should become the norm, and maybe that way we won’t have to be subject to derogatory comments.
With your expertise spanning various tasks like plastering, roofing, and painting, what do you find most fulfilling about your work?
I don’t do plastering, mainly due to an injury to my wrist. However, I do roofing, kitchens, bathrooms, plumbing, some electrics, landscaping… the list goes on and on. The thing I find most fulfilling is the client’s reactions.
You can start a build and knock down their previous kitchen, then build a new one with all their desires involved. I often find clients asking me, rather than the male builders on site, about design options and colour choices. Their faces light up when I love their new kettle and toaster set. Then, when the jobs are complete, it’s as if their lives have been changed. And I take pride in helping them achieve their vision and making their house a home.
Considering World Safety & Health Day, how do you prioritise safety on your job sites, and what measures do you take to ensure a safe working environment?
Safety is a massive concern on site. Every single day comes with new challenges, so you must always be ready for the worst. This means always having your hard hat handy, gloves in your pocket and safety glasses at the ready. On-site, we do a risk assessment before every shift and ensure all the correct PPE is in place. I take the safety of myself and my team very seriously.
Could you share any memorable experiences while working in the construction trade?
If I’m honest, most of the work I do is memorable. From installing my first sky lantern to transforming someone’s garden. Sometimes it’s the little things that make a day memorable. On one occasion, it had nothing to do with my work. I was using a track barrow and taking tonnes and tonnes of soil out of a garden ready to lay a patio. In the process, I found 8 slow worms and picked them up to rehome them in the neighbour’s garden. I was pleased to do my good deed for the day!
Challenges such as using bigger power tools are memorable. I was so scared to drive machinery, to use angle grinders and even to be on scaffolding. This was something I knew I had to overcome. After plucking up the courage and doing it just once, I defeated my fears. Sometimes getting fully immersed is the main part of construction. If you don’t know something, ask, and don’t be afraid. It’s such a rewarding lifestyle.
What advice would you give to other women interested in pursuing a career in the construction trades?
Do it. Start small, build up your knowledge base and don’t be put off if somebody turns you down. Construction is a male-dominated trade, and there needs to be more females. Eventually, I’d like to start my female-only handywoman company. Women have a very personal touch, and often that’s needed.
Don’t be discouraged if things don’t work out exactly the way you planned… I’m not sure many jobs do. There will be hard days and amazing days, you’ll go through them all. Just know you’re not alone out there, join the social media pages made specifically for women in trades, find women near you who can help, and talk to individuals about how and what you’re doing.
With your diverse skill set, what are some common misconceptions people have about women working in construction, and how do you address them?
I’ve heard remarks like, “Are you here to make the guys their tea?” and “Is it bring your wife to work day?” Being a woman in construction means having a sense of humour. It’s satisfying when I prove them wrong by lugging a pallet of blocks through a property without a pause, and the client takes back their comment. Some men have even left the site feeling belittled. But to be clear, I’m all for teamwork. The more hands on deck, the better.
I’m very thankful I have the team that I do. I know they have my back just like I have theirs. Finding a team that accepts you for who you are, your strengths and your weaknesses, really helps.
Finally, tell us about yourself… what do you like to do outside of work and do you find your work impacts that or do you try and have a healthy work-life balance?
Outside of work, I don’t have many hobbies, mainly out of choice. I have 3 cats (Peanut, Butter and Jelly), 3 snakes and a new puppy (Lyla), which take up most of my time. I’m also step mum to an amazing 7-year-old. I do often work late and sometimes on the weekends. For me, if we have a rainy day during the week and a sunny day on the weekend, I’ll work on the weekend to make up for missing a day. It’s all about give and take. Sometimes you must do a bit extra to push the job along and sometimes you must take a step back and prioritise your personal life. I’m fortunate to have the flexibility to take days off for my mental health and when I need some extra time during my menstrual cycle.
In conclusion, Jasmine’s journey into the male-dominated construction industry reflects her resilience and determination. Despite challenges like gender stereotypes and sexualized comments, she navigates with grace and humour, proving herself through hard work and dedication. Her diverse skill set and commitment to safety underscore her professionalism. Jasmine’s advice to aspiring women is to start small, build confidence, and persevere despite setbacks, envisioning a future where women are the norm in construction. Jasmine’s story is an inspiration, showing that with passion and perseverance, women can thrive in any industry.
Hi, my name is Jasmine, I’m 27 years old and I work as a multi-skilled tradesperson. I’ve been in the construction industry for almost 3 years now and love my job. I can fit kitchens, bathrooms, convert garages, strip & slate roofs, resin-bound gravel driveways and make people’s dreams a reality. I’m honestly just your average female, who managed to get into a male-dominated industry and boss my way through it. Just remember, if I can do it, you can too!