INDUSTRY INSIGHT Ӏ WOMEN IN LIFTING


Growing up around the business, we saw first-hand the impact of quality service, strong leadership, and innovation in crane hire. Our dad's passion for the


industry inspired us to get involved, and as we gained experience, we became determined to drive the company forward while maintaining its core values. We wanted to bring fresh perspectives, embrace modernisation, and ensure that John Sutch Cranes remains an industry leader. Dad is in his 70s now and still has the energy he had 30 years ago but we are now taking more of a hands-on role in the business, supported by other key leaders. We are a family business at heart and maintain those family values.


What’s a typical day like for you in the business? No two days are the same! One day might involve site visits and overseeing operations, while another could be dedicated to strategic planning, customer relations, or team development. We spend a lot of time ensuring


that projects run smoothly, liaising with clients, and making key business decisions to enhance efficiency, safety, and service quality. Managing a crane hire business is dynamic and fast- paced, requiring a balance of hands-on involvement and long- term planning. While we were in the cabin of the crane years ago, we're not there now! Lifting is just one part of the business.


The construction and lifting industries are traditionally male-dominated. Have you faced any particular challenges as women in this field? There have been challenges, particularly in the early years, as the industry has historically been male-dominated. At times, we’ve had to work harder to prove our


expertise and leadership. However, we’ve also found that leading with confidence, knowledge, and professionalism has earned us respect across the industry. Nowadays you see more women


in construction. We've been involved from the very start - even before 'women in construction' was a thing; we were doing our bit. And it wasn't just us, it was mum too and the other female family members who work in the business.


Do you think attitudes towards women in construction and lifting have changed over the years? Yes, there has been a noticeable shift. More companies are embracing diversity and recognising the value that women bring to the industry. There’s still progress to be made, but we’ve seen increasing numbers of women in leadership, engineering, and operational roles, which is a positive step forward.


What do you think needs to happen to encourage more women to join the industry? Education and awareness are key. There needs to be more visibility of female role models in construction


A family affair:


sisters Hayley (left) and Andrea (right) and aunt Diane (middle) at John Sutch Cranes’ first office, near Liverpool city centre, circa mid-1990s


and lifting, along with targeted outreach in schools and colleges to highlight the career opportunities available. Companies also need to ensure that their workplaces are inclusive and supportive, offering training, mentorship, and career progression opportunities for women. Provision for women out on site is also important. Running water, female toilets that are locked and kept clean – things like that are essential.


What are the benefits having more women in a workforce can bring? A diverse workforce brings different perspectives, problem- solving approaches, and leadership styles. Women can contribute fresh ideas, strong communication skills, and attention to detail, all of which are critical in crane operations. A balanced workforce also


promotes a more inclusive, forward-thinking industry. In the crane industry things can get heated and years ago approaches to solving issues could be a bit 'bull in a china shop'; but now it's different and I think the influence of women on site and in business has promoted a shift to calmer behaviour.


CRANES TODAY 35


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