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One might assume that pursuing a career in construction might lead you towards typically male-dominated spaces, working on sites where it’s a little more difficult to have your voice heard. This, according to Trainee Site Manager at Glenveagh Cintia Regina Rudi Reis, is simply not the case.
From an early age, Cintia was drawn to the process of creating and building things. “Whether it was constructing elaborate Lego structures or helping with DIY projects around the house,” she tells us. “I found joy in seeing ideas take shape and form.”
A natural interest that led her towards a degree in Civil Engineering, Cintia completed several postgraduate programmes in areas such as BIM Management, Project Management, and Health and Safety, and spent the best part of a decade working with house drawings, focusing on structural and drainage aspects, which enhanced her ability to read drawings and provide clear explanations on site.
“I’m the type of person who is constantly seeking knowledge. I really like to know more about everything that contributes to my professional growth. I’m passionate about my profession and that’s what drives me.”
Joining Glenveagh as a planning engineer, the importance of good communication and management became instantly apparent in practice. In the role of Trainee Site Manager, Cintia is responsible for supervising construction sites, ensuring that work progresses according to schedule and quality standards, which involves monitoring the activities of subcontractors, coordinating with on-site employees, and addressing any issues that arise during construction.
“I assist in the management of construction projects by providing support to senior site managers,” Cintia elaborates. “This may include helping to develop project plans, scheduling work activities, and coordinating resources to ensure smooth project execution.
“Effective communication and coordination are essential for the success of any construction project. I liaise with subcontractors and project managers to ensure clear communication and coordination of activities throughout the construction process. Construction projects often encounter challenges and unforeseen issues. In my role, I am tasked with identifying problems as they arise, analysing root causes, and implementing effective solutions to keep the project on track and within budget. As a trainee, I am continuously learning and developing my skills in construction management.”
On the topic of working in a typically male-dominated space, Cintia concedes that it can be, at times, challenging. “As women, we need to demonstrate our skills and proficiency, shattering preconceived notions about gender roles,” she says. “At Glenveagh, we have a policy of zero tolerance towards any form of discrimination, which is a significant advantage here.”
With this backing from Glenveagh, Cintia feels confident in challenging any issues that may arise head on, voicing her opinions and concerns secure in the knowledge that her employers will be in her corner, and self-assured in her own knowledge, experience, and valued perspective.
This didn’t come overnight, and Cintia praises Vera Ourique—a woman under whom she worked as an intern some 13 years ago—for her patience, leadership, and determination. “She had the patience to teach me a lot about everything. Her strength and resilience are admirable, but what resonates with me the most is the leadership skills she instilled in me. She guided me on how to navigate and lead in a predominantly male environment, encouraging self-belief and the determination to never give up.”
For Cintia, the best part of the job is getting to witness a construction project come to life, from start to finish. Watching the transformation of a site from an empty plot of land to a fully functional building is, she tells us, incredibly rewarding. Cintia also enjoys the dynamic nature of the construction industry, where each day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth.
“I really recommend other females to consider a role in site management and if I can give advice, it would be to avoid labelling themselves based on gender. We are all human beings, with equal access to education and opportunities. If working on construction sites is something you’re passionate about, follow your dream. As women, we should be the first to believe in ourselves and the last to limit ourselves because of our gender. We know our capabilities and how far we want to go. Focus on your dreams and forge ahead!”
“The construction industry is dynamic and diverse, offering a wide range of career opportunities across various specialties and sectors. Whether it’s residential, commercial, or infrastructure projects, there’s always something new to learn and different challenges to tackle, which keeps the work engaging and exciting.”
As one of Ireland’s leading homebuilders, Glenveagh’s vision is that everyone should have the opportunity to access affordable, high-quality homes in flourishing communities across Ireland. They prioritise diversity and inclusivity across the company and are on a mission to break the male-dominated stereotype of the construction industry, encouraging women from all different backgrounds to join their team.