Women in Construction Awards 2026 returns to London

Design & Build UK is inviting construction professionals and businesses to join the fifth annual Women in Construction Awards, taking place at the Royal Lancaster London on 29 October 2026.

Over the past five years, the Women in Construction Awards is said to have brought together professionals from across the built environment to recognise achievement and encourage conversations around representation and progression.

This year’s ceremony will continue that focus, with finalists, sponsors, judges and industry representatives gathering as the winners across 12 categories are announced.

Michaela Wain, Managing Director of Design & Build UK, and Founder of the Women in Construction Awards, said: “Reaching the fifth Women in Construction Awards is an important milestone for us.

“Over the past five years, we have seen the event grow and bring together people from across construction to recognise achievements that deserve to be celebrated.

“This year gives us an opportunity to reflect on how far the awards have come, but it is also about the people being recognised now.

“We have an incredible group of finalists representing different roles, career stages and areas of construction, and I hope businesses and professionals from across the industry will join us in London to support them and celebrate our fifth year.”

The 2026 shortlist reflects the range of careers and contributions found across the built environment, from site-based trades, engineering and surveying to project delivery, social value, business ownership and senior leadership.

It also recognises organisations, initiatives and allies working to improve inclusion and opportunities for women across construction.

This year’s 12 categories are:

• Business Owner
• Community Hero
• Contribution to Project
• Inclusive Company
• Influencer
• Lifetime Achievement
• Male Ally
• Male Pioneer
• On the Tools
• Rising Star
• Role Model
• Woman’s Initiative.

Together, they recognise people at different stages of their careers alongside businesses and initiatives contributing to the industry.

Finalists have already come together at a pre-event held at Lucky Cat Rooftop, 22 Bishopsgate, on 10 September.

The afternoon brought shortlisted individuals together with judges, sponsors and industry professionals for networking, keynote contributions and a panel discussion ahead of the main ceremony.

The awards night will provide another opportunity for professionals from across construction to meet, support the finalists and celebrate achievements within the sector.

Individual and multiple tickets are available alongside table packages, giving businesses the option to attend with colleagues, host clients or bring a wider team to the ceremony.

The evening will also raise support for The Maggie Oliver Foundation, the official charity partner for the 2026 Women in Construction Awards.

Founded by former detective and whistleblower Maggie Oliver, the Foundation supports adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and exploitation through emotional support and advocacy.

The partnership follows the 2025 awards, when guests raised more than £10,000 for the Register of Tradeswomen.

That funding has since helped 10 women affected by domestic abuse complete its DIY Champions course, providing practical skills intended to support greater independence and confidence.

Design & Build UK would also like to thank: MAK, Mitie, Gleeds, NOCN, CIOB, SES Engineering Services, Mott MacDonald, RCK Partners, Stoneline and Wates for supporting the 2026 Women in Construction Awards.

Their involvement is said to help make the awards possible and supports an evening bringing together people and organisations from across the built environment.

With the fifth anniversary approaching, Design & Build UK is encouraging businesses and professionals to secure their tickets and join this year’s finalists in London.

Whether supporting a finalist, celebrating with colleagues or connecting with others across the sector, the ceremony provides an opportunity to be part of the awards as the 2026 winners are revealed.

For more information, visit: Home – Women in Construction Awards