Molly Gill – Career Case Study
What is your background, and what motivated you to pursue a career change? I studied Media Hair and Makeup in college, but quickly realised it wasn’t the career path for me. I hopped from job to job, including care work, office work, sales and I even started a role as a nursery assistant. But something still didn’t feel right. I kept questioning myself and couldn’t understand why none of the jobs were igniting my passion.
I love learning, but I felt stuck, with no clear path for progression.
What inspired you to take the leap into construction? Construction caught my eye because of the opportunities for growth. Most of the men in my family work in construction, and after talking to my dad, he encouraged me to give it a try. I knew that even if I didn’t like it, at least I had given it a go. So, I picked up the phone, called Flannery, and asked, how do I get started. Two weeks later, I was enrolled onto the Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations, and I haven’t looked back since.
How did it feel when you got accepted onto the Skills Bootcamp? When I was accepted, I felt amazing. The whole process was seamless, and the registration team put me at ease. I had to travel to Birmingham for the training, but it felt achievable. Before this, I felt lost, unsure of my career path while my friends thrived in their chosen professions. But with the Skills Bootcamp, I finally felt like I belonged.
What was training like? The training was exciting from the start. The trainers were friendly, and the small class size made it feel personal. It was a completely new world to me, but the trainers’ enthusiasm made me feel at ease. I was nervous about the tests, but their support helped me realise I could do it.
What machines did you train on?
I trained on an ADT and a tracked dumper.
Did you face any challenges during your training? At first, the machines were intimidating, but then I realised, If I can drive a car, I can drive anything! The daily checks, the controls, the safety side of it, it was a lot to learn, but I grasped it quickly. The course also had another woman on their, which made me feel more comfortable. When I passed my theory and practical tests, I was ecstatic. Me and the other woman on the course celebrated each other’s success which was a special moment.
Did you secure work opportunities after the training? I completed the Skills Bootcamp in July, and within two weeks, I landed my first job on an Anglian Water project, operating a Hydrema. The site was small, but it was a perfect introduction to the industry.
How did you feel on your first day on-site? I was nervous, mainly about meeting new people and being responsible for my own machine. But a Flannery trainer visited me on-site, familiarised me with the machine, and reassured me. Being the only female on-site felt intimidating at first, but the support from the foreman and my colleagues made it easier. When I’m nervous, I know it means I’m pushing myself, and that’s how I grow.
What site are you on now and what do you do? I’ve worked on three sites since completing the Skills Bootcamp. I’m currently on the Ipswich Spa project, which is one of the largest sites I’ve worked on so far. I drive a tracked dumper, moving sub-soil and transporting type 1 for access points. It’s a high-profile project, and I feel proud to be part of it.
How does it feel working on a high-profile project? Growing up, my dad would point out projects he worked on during road trips. Now, I get to do the same. It fills me with pride to see the impact we’re making.
What do you love most about working on plant? Every day is a learning day. Whether it’s about machinery or the industry itself, there’s always something new. But more than that, it’s the sense of community. If I ever have an issue, I know I can turn to at least 20 people for support. And honestly, every day is fun. I love what I do.
What are your short- and long-term career goals? In the short term, I want to train on as many machines as possible and gain experience. Long-term, I hope to become a plant coordinator or a trainer, helping others enter the industry.
What do your friends and family think about your career choice? My friends and family are thrilled to see me so happy. I’m excited to go to work every day, and they’re proud of me. I’m proud of myself too.
What would you say to school and college leavers, or those looking to start a new career? I’d say – Feel the fear and do it anyway! If something interests you, try it. There is no failure in trying. The only failure is not trying at all. Stop comparing yourself to others, everyone’s path is different. If you’re curious about construction, start researching. Watch videos of people operating machines, learn about the industry, and see what opportunities are out there. You were made for this!
Are there gender stereotypes in construction? Is this a barrier? There are more men than women on-site, but the industry is evolving. Companies are now actively encouraging and supporting more women to join. Gender shouldn’t hold anyone back anymore.
Do you feel like you have progressed already? I’ve learned so much since I started, and I’ve gained a real understanding of the industry. Construction isn’t just a job. It’s about making a real impact on communities, and I’m proud to be part of that.
How have you grown as a person through your journey? When I’m in the machine, I feel at peace. I’ve found what I’m meant to do. I’ve grown so much since I began. My confidence has skyrocketed, and I feel invincible. If I can achieve this, I know I can achieve anything.
