A pair of Ipswich businesswomen have been recognised for their influence paving the way for others in a male-dominated industry.
Clare Friel and Helen Clements have been shortlisted for the Top 100 Influential Women in Construction award.
The National Federation of Builders prize aims to make female and non-binary role models more visible and accessible in the construction sector.
Ms Friel, director of Friel and co-founder of Construction Anglia, has been nominated for the second year in a row, after winning the Eastern region Unsung Hero category award last year.
Clare Friel with the award in 2022, Supplied (Image: Supplied)
She said: "This year I have been nominated in the Ally category, which is really exciting.
"I was over the moon when I won in 2022, and since then I have been lucky enough to meet even more great people in the industry and talk at events like UK Construction Week, which was held at the Excel earlier this month.
"I am so pleased that Helen Clement has been nominated for the Hero East award this year, as she thoroughly deserves it, she has played a huge role in my career."
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Ms Clement, senior social value manager at Morgan Sindall Construction, said she feels very excited and humbled to be nominated for the award.
"I just do my work that I love and support our business, making a difference in the communities we work in.
Helen Clements has been nominated for the Hero East award, Supplied (Image: Supplied)
"It is an amazing sector that leaves a legacy and has a positive effect on people's lives. I love it and imagine a world where more women can influence design and builds."
Both businesswomen are mums-of-two and admit that the support from their families has been pushing them to follow their dreams.
Ms Clement said: "As women, we need to have a 'go attitude' and believe we are equal to our male colleagues.
"Having the confidence that you know what you are delivering means others will believe in you."
Ms Friel added: "Always make sure you never compromise your values and surround yourself with positive people.
"Running a business may have plenty of bumps in the road, but you have to keep going."
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