The construction workforce is currently just 15% female, according to the Office for National Statistics. This statistic may not come as a surprise given the industry’s historically male-dominated nature. However, times are changing, and both Integral Cradles and our maintenance partner GIND UK are proud to be part of that transformation. With 25% of our management team comprised of women and over half of our staff born outside the UK, we’re proud to be building a workforce that truly reflects the world around us.
This International Women’s Day 2026, we spoke to two members of our team, Dayana Peña Losada, Business Administrator, and Ingrid Bedoya, Assistant Maintenance Manager, whose stories reflect the breadth of talent, background, and ambition that make GIND UK the company it is today.
Two paths, one destination
Neither Dayana nor Ingrid had originally planned a career in construction. Yet both have found their footing in an industry that is more varied, more technical, and more rewarding than many might expect from the outside.
Dayana arrived at GIND UK with over a decade of experience in B2B and B2C sales, bringing with her a talent for client relationships, communication, and organisation. Her day-to-day role spans administrative operations, client communications, and documentation management. “I didn’t originally envision working in this industry,” she admitted, “but I’ve grown to really enjoy the fast-paced environment and the opportunity to contribute to projects that have a tangible impact.”
Ingrid’s route was equally unexpected. Having studied law in Colombia before completing a master’s degree in Environment in Spain, she brought a wealth of international experience to her role supporting the Maintenance Manager, managing documentation, and keeping day-to-day operations running smoothly. “Entering the BMU field has been a rewarding challenge,” she says. “It has opened the door to a completely new area of knowledge, and I’ve found it both interesting and motivating.”
Challenging perceptions, one day at a time
Working in a male-dominated sector is not without its challenges, and both women speak candidly about their experiences. Dayana is clear to state: “At times, you do feel that you need to prove yourself more, especially when you’re confident and ambitious.” But rather than viewing this as a barrier, she has chosen to see it as an opportunity. “I see it as a chance to stand out and show that women bring organisation, resilience, emotional intelligence, and strength to this industry.” She added.
Ingrid echoes this sentiment, adding a thoughtful perspective on what genuine inclusion looks like in practice. “I believe that while some sectors have historically been led by men, the presence and contribution of women in any company are truly indispensable,” she explains. “Our inclusion in environments that were once perceived as male-only roles is essential for creating balance; not only in day-to-day work, but also in decision-making and team dynamics.”
Growing through trust and support
For both women, their proudest achievements at GIND UK are rooted not in a single moment, but in a gradual, hard-won growth of confidence. Ingrid explained: “Tasks that once felt challenging or unfamiliar have now become opportunities for me to push myself, learn something new, and strengthen my confidence. Seeing this transformation, from initially struggling with certain responsibilities to handling them independently, has been incredibly rewarding.”
Both women also point to the support structures at GIND UK as central to their development. Ingrid highlights the value of training and accessible management: “From the beginning, GIND UK has supported this learning process by providing training courses and offering continuous guidance from managers who are always willing to clarify processes and share their knowledge.” For Dayana, it comes down to something simpler but equally meaningful: being trusted. “GIND UK has supported my development by giving me responsibility and trusting me to handle important tasks. That trust has allowed me to grow professionally and build confidence.”
It is an approach that recognises something fundamental: people grow when they are trusted, not just trained.
Anything is possible: a message for the next generation
For women considering a career in construction or facilities management, both Dayana and Ingrid are unequivocal. “Don’t underestimate yourself,” says Dayana. “This industry needs capable, organised, driven women. If you’re willing to learn and work hard, there is space for you to grow and succeed.”
Ingrid goes further, challenging the very idea that any role should feel out of reach: “There are no jobs impossible for women. What truly matters is the willingness to learn, the curiosity to explore, and the commitment to pursue the profession you want. Women bring valuable perspectives, strengths, and ways of thinking that enhance teamwork, innovation, and decision-making.”
Looking ahead, both are ambitious. Dayana is focused on taking on greater responsibility and expanding her impact within the company, whilst Ingrid is clear about the wider change she wants to see: “I hope to see more women not only entering the industry, but also progressing into technical and leadership positions. The more diverse the teams are, the stronger and more innovative the industry becomes.”
The future of construction is female. And it’s already here
Reflecting on the construction industry’s future during International Women’s Day 2026, Integral Cradles and GIND UK managing director Kevin Walton said:
“Dayana and Ingrid’s stories are great examples of the talent that flourishes when an industry opens its doors to different backgrounds, different journeys, and different definitions of what a career in construction can look like.”
He added: “At GIND UK and Integral Cradles, we believe that the only things that should determine success are talent and ambition. And we’re proud to build our business around that belief every single day.”
