78 | Feature: Mentoring
MENTORING MERITS
Cyndi Chandler, managing director of Simpson Strong-Tie, with over three decades of experience in the industry, shares her views on the importance of mentorships in timber engineering
Timber engineering is an important element of the construction industry and, while the sector has traditionally been male- dominated, more women are being recognised for their contribution in the industry. Having seen the designs from the winners of the Trussed Rafter Association’s Roofscape Design Awards over the years, there’s a growing number of women rightfully taking their place among the best designers. Yet, for many women, the idea of entering such a male-dominated industry can feel intimidating – and this is where mentoring can help with professional development and personal support.
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
There can be different stages in your career where a mentor can be really helpful. We will face different challenges at different times in our work and mentoring provides women with a platform to voice their concerns, access industry knowledge, and develop resilience in the industry.
My career trajectory was shaped by the guidance and encouragement of mentors who helped me grow in confidence and develop key leadership skills. Like many others, there have been times where I was the only woman in the room and the support I received from my mentors allowed me to assert myself and embrace my expertise. Women need to remember that the reason they are in the room is because of their expertise and they too have an equal voice.
PERSONAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
Mentorship provides women in timber engineering with the opportunity to develop both technical and soft skills. While technical proficiency is important, the ability to communicate effectively, build networks, and gain visibility within the industry is equally important.
Above: Cyndi Chandler: investing in mentoring programmes is a strategic imperative
FOSTERING INCLUSIVITY AND RETENTION Women make up 12% of construction workers, and mentoring can play a role in promoting inclusivity and retention. Mentorship addresses this issue by providing women with role models and a support network. Women who feel supported in the workplace are more likely to remain in the sector and progress into leadership roles. This is particularly important in timber engineering, where diverse perspectives are needed to address the challenges of sustainable construction.
Mentoring is a strategic tool to foster the talent needed to meet these demands, and companies that encourage mentoring programmes are likely to see improved employee retention, greater job satisfaction and enhanced productivity.
Mentorships are not reserved for professionals with less experience, they can be beneficial for senior teams too. Reverse mentoring allows more experienced professionals to learn from their younger or less experienced mentees, gaining different perspectives and skills.
MENTORSHIP AND MENTAL HEALTH Mentoring can play an important role in supporting mental health and well-being. The construction industry has one of the highest rates of work-related stress, anxiety, and depression.
In fact, nearly one in five workers report mental health challenges. For women, who are under-represented, these challenges can be even more obvious.
Mentoring provides a support system, offering not only professional advice but also emotional guidance.
As the government is looking to increase the use of timber in the construction industry, the demand for skilled professionals will increase – this is when women can demonstrate their skills.
Mentoring is more than just a pathway to professional success – it is a tool for empowering women in timber engineering to build confidence, develop resilience, and contribute meaningfully to the industry. My own experiences demonstrate that having a mentor can make all the difference in helping women overcome challenges and achieve their career goals.
For the timber engineering sector, investing in mentoring programmes is not only a matter of equity but also a strategic imperative. By fostering a diverse and skilled workforce, mentoring will play a key role in shaping the next generation of women leaders in timber engineering.
As the industry continues to evolve, mentoring will remain a crucial element in ensuring its future success. ■
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Cyndi Chandler is the managing director of Simpson Strong-Tie UK. She has first-hand experience working in managing national home centre accounts to leading as the managing director of the UK branch. Having learnt Spanish she expanded Simpson’s Latin American markets, which drove sales operations.
TTJ | November/December 2024 |
www.ttjonline.com
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