Women in Construction Awards 2026
After an amazingly susccesful evening in 2025, the Women in Construction Awards 2026 will return once again Royal Lancaster London on 29th October 2026. With more categories, wow-factor entertainment and some of the biggest names in the indsutry, alongisde networking opportunities both pre- and post- event, there has never been a better time to join in and become part of the Women in Construction Awards.
In order to make this night so special every year, those influential, successful and powerful established and up-and-coming stars of construction must take the spotlight. Nominations are now open!
Celebrating five years of professional achievement in construction.
The Women in Construction Awards were founded by Design and Build UK’s Managing Director, Michaela Wain, to provide a platform for the women currently driving the sector. The initiative aims to encourage new talent into construction by showcasing the tangible success and career paths of those already making an impact.
“I have always believed that to support more women in construction, we need to put more effort into highlighting their actual achievements,” Michaela noted during our 2025 event.
Now entering its fifth year, the awards have become a landmark event in the industry calendar. 2025 marked a significant milestone with over 1,500 nominations and a keynote address from Steffan Battle, Managing Director at Wates, who discussed why an inclusive culture is essential for operational excellence. WIC Awards 2026 promises to reach even greater heights!
The Scoring Framework
To maintain the integrity of these awards, every submission is evaluated against a 100-point framework. Our judges prioritise factual evidence and tangible results over general statements.
Entry Requirements:
- Strict Word Counts: Each question has a specific minimum and maximum word count. Entries that fall outside these ranges may be penalised. It is up to you to ensure your nomination meets the word count displayed.
- Weighted Scoring: While most questions are scored out of 10, key questions regarding measurable impact, innovation, and sustainability are weighted at 15 points.
- Judging Scale: Judges will assess your answers based on the following quality markers:
- Outstanding (90%–100% of available points): Detailed, measurable impact with clear evidence.
- Strong (80%–90% of available points): Well-evidenced and authentic examples.
- Satisfactory (50%–70% of available points): Meets the basic criteria with some examples.
- Limited (Under 50% of available points): Lacks detail, clarity, or supporting evidence.
Key Dates for 2026
- Nominations Open: 1st February 2026
- Nominations Close: 18th July 2026
- Shortlist Announcement: 17th August 2026
- Shortlist celebration, network with the judges: 10th September 2026
- WIC Awards Event: 29th October 2026
WIC Awards Categories
The judging for all awards was based on the nominee's contribution to the industry, time in the industry, how they have helped to attract others to the industry, problems they have overcome, achievements within their sector, the reasons they were nominated, and their future plans. These considerations were weighted specifically towards each category, and this weighting was shown while answering questions on the nomination application.
Business Owner
Recognises a woman who has built and led a thriving construction-related business, showing innovation, resilience, and leadership.
Community Hero
Celebrates an individual improving lives and opportunities in their community through construction-related work.
Contribution to Project
Recognises a woman whose skill or leadership significantly contributed to a project’s success.
Inclusive Company
Celebrates a company that actively promotes and embeds equality, diversity, and inclusion across its workforce.
Influencer
Recognises a woman using her platform to advocate for change and inclusion in construction.
Lifetime Achievement
Honours a career that has created a lasting legacy in construction.
Male Ally
Celebrates a man who actively supports, mentors, and advocates for the success of women in construction.
Male Pioneer
Honours a man who is leading the way in helping to implement pioneering changes that improve gender balance across the construction sector.
On the Tools
Recognises excellence in site-based trades, celebrating technical skill, craftsmanship, and a commitment to high operational standards.
Rising Star
Highlights an emerging talent in the early stages of her career who demonstrates exceptional potential, initiative, and a commitment to professional growth within the construction industry.
Role Model
Aims the spotlight on an individual who inspires others through their professional conduct, leadership, and active empowerment of women in the sector.
Woman's Initiative
Nominate and celebrate a specific project, scheme, or campaign led by a woman/women that has successfully addressed industry challenges, supported female career progression, or fostered a more inclusive environment.