The award-winning Women into Home Building programme returns for its ninth cohort, offering fully funded site management placements for women across the country

Women across the UK are encouraged to apply to the Women into Home Building programme for the chance to gain practical experience of site-based careers in home building.

The Women into Home Building initiative, led by the Home Builders Federation (HBF) and delivered with Pathway CTM in partnership with national and regional home builders, is launching its ninth cohort as the industry continues its work to widen access to careers and strengthen the future talent pipeline.

The fully funded three-week programme starts with one week of online training and industry insight sessions, followed by a two-week work experience placement on site.

The current recruitment period follows the initiative’s recent success at the Women in Housing and Housing Heros Awards 2026, where it took home the Career Development Initiative of the Year award.

To date, the Women into Home Building programme has successfully supported more than 215 candidates through introductory training and hands-on work experience. This has led to more than 60 candidates being offered employment within the industry.

Paige Farrier, a candidate of the eighth cohort of the programme, said: “During the programme, we got to learn about all the opportunities in the construction industry. I learned so much on my two-week placement about how a site runs and what it really takes, and that learning is still ongoing now.

“I would absolutely recommend applying - if it was not for this programme, I would not have the job role I have today, working as a Trainee Assistant Site Manager. I love my job, the team I work with, and how much I am learning. Networking is so important and this programme gives you that opportunity.”

Recruitment for the autumn cohort opens on Monday 17 August 2026 and closes at midnight on Sunday 20 September 2026, ahead of placements in November.

Women considering a change of career, returning to work, entering the industry after graduating or looking for a new opportunity at any stage of their working lives are encouraged to apply through the online application process.

Andy George, Director of Industry Attraction and Skills at the Home Builders Federation, said: “Women into Home Building is expanding the industry's access to a wider pool of talent while giving more women a clear route to explore the opportunities available in home building. By combining industry insight with practical experience, the programme can help challenge misconceptions about careers in the sector and give participants the confidence and knowledge to take their next step.

“It is extremely encouraging to see the programme reach its ninth cohort and continue providing women across the country with direct experience of working in home building. The range of opportunities available across the industry is extensive, and programmes like this are important in making those careers more visible and accessible.

“I would encourage any woman who is interested in finding out whether a career in home building could be right for them to apply. We look forward to welcoming the next group of participants in November and seeing where the experience takes them.”

The application window closes at midnight on Sunday 20 September 2026. Those interested are encouraged to apply at https://pathwayctm.com/services/women-into-home-building/.