Matilda’s curiosity feeds into her eye for design and her interests in sustainability and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG).
She works with key stakeholders in guiding Stride Treglown’s ESG and Sustainability strategy. You can find our latest Environmental Management Report here.
Alongside this, her primary role is as a Technologist, working within the Education Sector to deliver projects across a multitude of briefs, from refurbishment schemes to Net Zero Carbon (NZC) and Passivhaus.
What is the current big trend in your sector?
Net Zero Carbon. In line with the Department for Education’s sustainability strategy, all new school buildings delivered by the Department of Education will be net zero in operation. This is a huge step in the right direction, aligning with the UK’s government legislation to meet net zero by 2050 — and a bonus for us to explore some innovative and design-led solutions to make it all happen!
If you weren’t in this career, what would you be?
My curiosity feeds my passion to learn more about our universe, so probably an Astronomer!
Where do you see your career taking you?
Onwards and upwards, with opportunities to travel the world.
What is one thing you would change about the industry?
There is a lack of diversity and under-representation of women. As a woman from an ethnic minority currently working in the construction industry, I feel proud to be in a position where I can enforce Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and be an inspiration to others.
Moreover, the construction industry has long been operated with profit and efficiency in mind, meaning the things that matter – say, saving the world from global warming – do not take priority. The built environment is responsible for 25% of the UK’s greenhouse emissions. And although there is a shift towards sustainable design, it’s still too slow for this change to be impactful.
In all cases, the need for action surpasses the industry’s current approach.
Interesting fact that nobody knows about you?
I can recite every word of The Lion King.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Don’t be too hard on yourself! You will constantly grow and evolve, but don’t lose sight of your dreams, and enjoy living life in the moment.
Industry Bodies:
- CIAT Associate Member
Industry Bodies:
- Technical Buildability Award, sponsored by Schluter-Systems Ltd, 2021
