Claire Lundy
Role: Rope Access Technician, Steering committee member for Women in Construction and Quarrying Ireland
Company: Self-employed
How did you discover this industry and what have you found most exciting about it?
I was a rock climber for many years before I started in this industry so working on ropes wasn't completely alien to me. However it wasn't until I noticed someone working on the building opposite the one where I was having a work meeting and thought, "That looks more fun!" that I started to do my research on professional rope access. For me the most exciting thing about this job is the variety of places it can take you and things you'll end up doing. Some of the weirdest and most wonderful jobs in the world take place at height.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome?
Building my portfolio in geotechnical operations as a female in a male-dominated industry. There are so many stereotypes that follow a woman into this job and sometimes I have been passed over for opportunities because of them. From being told a job was only for "big strong men" to having my authority challenged on site, it has been really instrumental for me to find my people, seek out mentors, work with reputable companies and be my own champion above all. Bad behavior and old-fashioned attitudes about women are in the minority in my experience, and are gradually being called out and left in the past where they belong.
Of what accomplishments are you most proud?
Each time I pass an assessment for a new or revalidated qualification. Tickets, as we call them, are the licenses we need to do things like abseiling, using chainsaws, or welding on site. Being self employed, I fund all my own training and juggle all the logistics to get myself to, and through, the courses. So, it's a collection of cards that I'm pretty proud of.
What do you think companies could be doing to attract and retain more women in your field?
Most of us are freelance subcontractors so we don't go through a traditional recruitment process to get our jobs. When it comes to the retention of women in the field: supplying PPE that fits and providing adequate welfare facilities is a great starting point. But those things alone are not enough. It's important that companies support women as they transition into leadership roles, take stock of the culture they're working in and be prepared to listen to what women are telling them about their experiences on the job.
What does it mean to have MOXY?
Having MOXY as a woman in my industry means I don't let anyone's perception of gender norms get in the way of taking my career where I want to. It could almost be considered a full time job in itself!
What is a must needed skill in order to be effective in your role?
Undoubtedly, a head for heights or exposure. Our job isn't to be on the ropes, it's to get the work done while we're on the ropes. Being unduly nervous about your environment or systems is performance inhibiting and the skill of being able to keep yourself safe at height and complete your work to a high standard is what will set you apart and allow you to thrive in your role.