Trainee Document Controller, Yuk Ha Mok, began her career in Construction in 2022 through the Women into Construction scheme. To mark Women in Construction Week (6th – 10th March 2023), we interviewed Yuk on her experience of the industry so far:
- Why construction? What attracted you to the industry?
Construction is a large industry and there are many paths to take and many job opportunities out there. I was looking for a new career path after my move to the UK and was confident that with the range of opportunities available, I would be able to find a role that suits me. I was also attracted by the steady growth of the industry: it is one of a few industries that maintained positive momentum during the pandemic.
- Which industry were you working in before?
In Hong Kong, I worked as an assistant curator in heritage conservation. When I moved to the UK I discovered the Women into Construction scheme which exists to help women get into the construction industry. By joining the programme, I got a chance to explore more about the industry here and learned about the wide variety of roles and projects that exist. What I like is that there are many lifelong opportunities and that you are not limited to one path.
- What has your experience of the industry been like with Gratte Brothers?
I have been working as a Trainee Document Controller at Gratte Brothers for six months now. So far, I have found that construction is a great field which brings together people from various backgrounds. I particularly like that the Document Control role can open doors to a range of other disciplines. Teamwork is crucial in the construction industry and is something that is done really well at Gratte Brothers!
In the last six months, I’m pleased to say that my team at Gratte Brothers has supported me in my career development and that I have had the opportunity to work on lots of different projects. It has been a great experience as I have learned many new things, worked with people from different disciplines and broadened my horizons. I enjoy being a part of the team and am pleased to see that my efforts positively contribute to the team.
- What does ‘a day in the life’ look like in your role?
A Document Controller is responsible for the daily management of a project’s documents. At the beginning of the day, I check the project collaboration e-platforms, and then download and distribute the latest documents if needed. I conduct a data check on the documents to be uploaded on these platforms as well as those submitted by the subcontractors. It’s my responsibility to update the relevant schedules and ensure all documents relating to the project are controlled and archived. If the project were a human body, as a Document Controller I think that I would be the circulatory system: I keep the projects moving and help my colleagues to deliver their documents and generally support their work.
- Where do you hope to be in 5 years’ time?
Having started as a Trainee Document Controller, I aim to accumulate more experience in document control and project administration for the foreseeable. I might see myself progressing to a Document Controller role in the coming year and, if possible, have the chance to be promoted to a senior position in five years’ time. At the same time, I might explore different disciplines like quality management or project management.
- What would you say to any other women thinking about embarking on a career in construction?
I would say that the opportunities are there, you just need to go and grab them! The construction industry offers different positions for different talents, so, you can definitely find a role that suits you. There is a lot of scope for women to develop their careers within the industry. Despite often being thought of as a male-dominated industry, this imbalance is now shifting—I am glad to have met some wonderful women at Gratte Brothers.
If you’re looking to kick start your career in construction, keep an eye on our Vacancies page for our latest opportunities or contact recruitment@gratte.com (no agencies, please).
