Irena Stec of Wolffkran Ltd Wins 'Inspirational Leader – Supplier' Category at CN, GE & NCE Inspiring Women in Construction & Engineering Awards

19.09.2024 | News

Irena joined Wolffkran Ltd as a trainee tower crane operator in 2014 after completing the CPCS Tower Crane Operator course. By May 2015, she earned her Level 2 Plant Operations NVQ and began operating WOLFF tower cranes across the UK.
In recent years, Irena has qualified as a CPCS Slinger Signaller, CPCS Appointed Person, and achieved a Level 5 Planning Lifting Operations NVQ. She continues to work on some of the biggest projects in the UK, including 8 Bishopsgate, and is currently holding the role of Tower Crane Coordinator at the Powergate Project.

Following a rigorous judging process with an independent panel of judges, Irena won in recognition of her inspirational story of triumph over cultural, gender, and operational stereotypes. She embodies passion and confidence and is making her mark on some of the most prestigious projects in a traditionally male-dominated field. As Irena puts it, ''Don’t be afraid, reach out early, learn, and be resilient.’’

Construction News editor Colin Marrs said “The IWCE Awards go from strength-to-strength, demonstrating the momentum in the movement for greater equality of opportunity within the construction and engineering sectors.

We had a staggering number of entries this year. Each and every one is another important chip away at the idea that construction is a man’s job. By coming together with male allies at our conference and awards ceremony, we are proud to provide a hub of support and exchange.”

In total, 21 winners were crowned, recognising the women and teams that stand out as exceptional and showcasing both individual and organisation wide initiatives.

The full list of winners can be found here.