Home » Blogs » Fortel Nijjer latest Update : Anna Branecka – Women in Construction Case Study

Fortel Nijjer latest Update : Anna Branecka – Women in Construction Case Study

Introduction 

Anna Branecka started her journey with SkyBlue in May 2020, taking on the role of part-time hoist operator at the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital project in Smethwick – since then she has excelled on all fronts, growing into a qualified and trusted leader.

The hospital is set to transform healthcare in Sandwell and Birmingham, bringing together teams who provide acute and emergency care, servicing thousands in the West Midlands region.

SkyBlue, part of the Fortel group, has supported the project since inception and has a number of staff on site, from handyman roles to welfare operatives and labourer positions.

Anna’s enthusiasm and commitment has seen her position evolve rapidly – she is now working as a supervisor on the site.

Ambition and Support 

Anna joined our SkyBlue team as a part-time hoist operator, before moving on to full-time work in the same position.

Her character and experience impressed site leaders, who nominated her for a supervisor role.

In this crucial role, Anna is responsible for overseeing a team of eight labourers.

She said: “I am enjoying the supervisor position, there is a fantastic team here and we are all working hard to get ahead of ourselves and make real progress on site.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of the job is seeing our plans and ideas come to life, I think this role gives me the opportunity to really take control of that and make sure that we are always moving forward.”

Once again, Anna has quickly impressed in her new role and site leaders suggested that her skills and positive attitude would be perfect for the role of site manager on the back shift.

SkyBlue worked with Anna to ensure she has the right credentials to do this.

Anna was enrolled and successfully completed extra training and upskilling, including securing the CITB Site Managers Safety Training Scheme Certification (SMSTS).

Anna completed and passed the required five-day course and is now able to move into this position.

Women in Construction 

The need for greater diversity, including female representation, in the construction industry is well documented.

Anna represents a real success story and hopes that she can set an example for others.

She said: “Everything about working on a site like this interests me, I am fascinated by the process and the work that goes into getting a job of this size done right.

“I think this passion comes across to the team onsite and I have never had any negative reaction due to my gender.

“In fact, I have seen the opposite, the team listens to me and respects me based on my achievements, experience and attitude.

“I would encourage any female looking to get into this industry to do so, there is nothing stopping you if you work hard and are committed.”

Anna became a mother in 2020 and has returned to the job she loves with a retained focus on improvement and professional development.

Amar Sandhawalia, Fortel Group Chief Operating Officer, said: “Anna has shown talent, determination and professionalism throughout her time on this project and we are delighted to see her receive recognition for that.

“Increasing diversity is a top priority across the Fortel Group and Anna has shown that progress can and will continue to be made in welcoming women into the world of construction.”