INDUSTRY INSIGHT Ӏ WOMEN IN LIFTING
SARAH SPIVEY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, MODULIFT
Sarah Spivey is managing director of spreader beam and lifting equipment manufacturer Modulift - where she has worked since 2008. As an experienced professional focussed on the strategic growth and development of the business Sarah says her goals are to drive the Modulift brand forward to become the number one lifting engineering company world-wide and help change the face of the lifting engineering industry, increasing training and safety awareness around the world.
What inspired you to work in the lifting industry? What inspired me to work in the lifting industry was the unique combination of challenges and innovation it offers. After gaining a degree in
Business Studies, I started my journey in marketing, progressing to managing director at Modulift. I quickly became interested in how the lifting industry drives essential infrastructure and operations. The opportunity to contribute to a field that not only prioritises safety but also pushes boundaries in terms of technology and solutions resonated with me.
The construction and lifting industries are traditionally male-dominated. Have you faced any particular challenges as a woman in this field? I have always believed that knowledge, skill, and determination speak louder than gender. Over time, I’ve built credibility and a strong support system, which has helped me navigate the challenges of a male-dominated sector.
Do you think attitudes towards women in construction and lifting have changed over the years? Yes, but progress is ongoing. There is greater awareness now of the value diversity brings to the industry, and I’ve seen more initiatives encouraging women to pursue careers in lifting and construction. That said, there is still work to do in normalising female leadership and technical expertise in these fields.
What do you think needs to happen to encourage more women to join the industry? We need to start early - promoting STEM subjects in schools and creating visibility for female role models in lifting and construction. Companies should actively engage in mentorship programs, offer flexible career paths, and challenge outdated stereotypes.
Sarah Spivey, managing director of Modulift
What are the benefits having more women in a workforce can bring? A more diverse workforce brings different perspectives, innovative solutions, and a more balanced approach to leadership and teamwork. Diverse teams perform better, and having women involved leads to stronger collaboration, problem-solving, and communication within teams.
Are there any particular areas of lifting that you see as being more accessible for women to work in? And are there certain areas you think need more women? Women are already making strides in engineering, project management, sales, marketing and finance roles. However, I’d love to see more women in hands-on lifting operations, crane operation, and site leadership positions. These areas would benefit from different approaches to risk management and leadership styles.
How does Modulift support diversity and inclusion in the workplace? At Modulift, we promote a culture of inclusion, ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities for growth and success. We actively encourage diversity in hiring and provide training and mentorship to support career progression for all employees.
What skills or qualities do you think women bring to the industry that may be underappreciated? Women often excel in communication, collaboration, and attention to detail – skills that are essential in lifting operations where safety and precision are paramount. Additionally, problem-solving and adaptability are qualities that women bring to leadership roles in the industry.
What advice would you give to a women considering starting a career in crane hire, construction, or lifting? Believe in yourself, be persistent, and seek out mentors who can support your growth. Never be afraid to step out
of your comfort zone – technical skills can always be learned, but confidence and determination will set you apart.
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