In the traditionally male-dominated world of construction, Ashley Pearson is making waves—not just in the trade but also in education. From starting as a Level 1 Carpentry & Joinery learner to becoming a dedicated construction keyworker, her journey is one of resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to supporting the next generation.
Finding a Path in Construction
Ashley’s construction journey began in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she enrolled on a Level 1 Carpentry & Joinery course. She quickly progressed, achieving a Level 2 Apprenticeship after discovering the Growth Company online. However, after completing her apprenticeship, she found herself between employers. Determined to keep busy, she progressed to a Level 2 Adult Course.
While on the adult course, she found herself supporting younger learners on the Study Programme. Having worked with young people in her personal time, she saw an opportunity to make a bigger impact by stepping into a support role at the Growth Company.
Transitioning from the Trade to Teaching
After completing her Level 3, she transitioned from working on-site as a joiner in a landscaping company to a full-time keyworker. Having spent a decade on-site, moving into an office and classroom environment was a major adjustment. But with the support of the team at the Greater Manchester SkillCentre, she found a new sense of belonging.
One thing that stood out to her was the open conversations around mental health among colleagues. She had tragically lost three friends to suicide, seeing how the Growth Company prioritised mental wellbeing reinforced her passion for supporting learners - not just in their technical skills but in their personal development, too.
Breaking Barriers as a Woman in Construction
Being a woman in construction hasn’t always been easy. Ashley recalls one of her first experiences onsite when a supervisor, unsure of how to handle having a female worker, suggested she clean the canteen instead of joining the team on a sandblasting job. Undeterred, she proved she was just as capable as her male colleagues.
Her determination was fuelled by her upbringing - her father ran his own contracting business, and she grew up surrounded by the trade. Now, she’s using that experience to encourage more women to enter construction.
Shaping the Next Generation
As a construction keyworker, Ashley supports learners with mental health challenges, assists those facing homelessness and even connects them with food banks. Her goal is to make sure every learner - regardless of background or gender - feels supported and confident in pursuing a construction career.
She is particularly focused on encouraging more women to join the industry. She is currently completing her TAQA qualification to deliver a multi-skills course designed to introduce more females to construction.
“The next generation of women coming into construction shouldn’t have to face the same prejudices I did,” she says. “I want to make sure they feel welcomed and valued from day one.”
Looking Ahead
Over the past decade, she has seen a shift in attitudes toward women in construction. More opportunities are opening up, and more women are stepping into skilled roles. But there’s still work to do.
Her advice to women considering a career in construction? “Just go for it. There’s no such thing as ‘can’t.’ Follow your dreams, and if one path doesn’t work out, move on—you haven’t failed.”
As for the future, her ambition is clear: “I’d love to run an all-female college for women in construction. But for now, I’m focused on supporting as many women as possible at the Greater Manchester SkillCentre.”
Her journey is proof that with determination, resilience, and the right support, anything is possible. And as she continues to break barriers, she’s paving the way for more women to follow in her footsteps.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in Construction and would like to find out more about our courses, you can email Ashley direct ashley.pearson@gceducationandskills.ac.uk.
