Karyn’s journey to becoming WICE Best Female Architectural Technologist

Karyn Williams tells us about her journey to becoming Women In Construction & Engineering‘s Best Female Architectural Technologist 2019.

Finding out I had been shortlisted for Best Woman Architectural Technologist was an incredible moment. To find out I was only one of two finalists in our category was a total surprise. To have actually won the accolade alongside such fantastic role models within construction and engineering brings with it such a huge sense of achievement. I am beyond proud and honoured.

Starting my career nearly 20 years ago, unsure of where I was heading or what the future held, seems like only yesterday. It’s been quite a journey since, with the usual ups and downs along the way. I have experienced the fragility of the construction industry and shared in the successes it brings too. It’s this journey that builds your strength of character and humility along the way. My focus has consistently been about meeting the challenges you face head on and overcoming them collectively as one team.

I have been incredibly lucky to have met and worked with some fantastically talented people over the years whose guidance has shaped me into the person I am today. I am also blessed and incredibly grateful for the amount of support given to me by my friends and family. They have consistently encouraged me to believe that anything is possible.

Juggling a family and a full time career hasn’t always been an easy balance. To have success in both, you need to ensure you invest 100% of your energy, attention and presence in that exact moment. Whether it’s making an Easter bonnet for a school performance or running a pre-contract meeting, giving your full attention to those around you is essential.

I must acknowledge that my achievements have been a direct result of my husband’s unfailing love, support and patience. My career wouldn’t have been as fulfilling if I hadn’t had someone to share the journey with.

I’m delighted to see that there is now much more flexibility, pastoral support, open discussion and improved benefits for working parents today. This can only make combining a career and a family so much easier than it has been previously.

Architecture is such a fantastic career full of opportunity, creativity, quality and passion and I hope that the WICE awards inspire others that you can have it all.

You can find out more about Karyn’s story by listening to her Life At Stride Treglown podcast. 

Related posts