Kimmins – Women are at the heart of shaping tomorrow’s infrastructure

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has hailed the important role of women in shaping tomorrow’s infrastructure. The Minister was speaking during a keynote address at a Women’s Infrastructure Network NI event.

Minister Kimmins said: 

“I’m delighted to participate in the important conversation on how women can shape tomorrow’s infrastructure.  I want to thank the Women’s Infrastructure Network for their invitation and acknowledge the valuable work they do.  

“I’m proud to lead a Department that’s

committed to building a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable society— through the transformative power of infrastructure.  There’s a common misconception that infrastructure is all about roads, bridges, and buildings. But at its heart, it’s about people. It’s about connecting communities, enabling economic growth, protecting our environment, and improving the quality of life for everyone.

“Women are already at the heart of shaping our future. In my own Department, nearly 40% of our Senior Management Team are women. Their leadership and insight are vital in shaping policies that reflect the voices and experiences of women across our society.  I’ve also had the privilege of meeting many of our new graduates and employees—many of whom are female engineers. It is inspiring to hear about their work and their commitment to making a difference.

“When I took up my role in February, I set out seven Foundations for a Better Future, focusing on climate action, improvements to water and wastewater services, and planning. But one of the most important foundations is inclusion. I want everything we do to reflect the diversity of our society and to ensure everyone enjoys equal access to opportunities and services.

“Because if we want to build a future that works for everyone, then everyone must have a hand in shaping it.  We’ve made real progress—but there’s still more to do. We all have an important role in encouraging more people who are starting out on their career paths to choose infrastructure-related professions, where they can make their mark and contribute positively to society.

“So let’s continue working together to ensure that women are not only beneficiaries of infrastructure— but leaders in its development.” 

1. Photo caption: Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has hailed the important role of women in shaping tomorrow’s infrastructure during a keynote address at a Women’s Infrastructure Network NI event held at Belfast Harbour. The Minister is pictured with guest speakers at the event. Left to right - Natasha Sayee, Corporate Affairs and Engagement Director, Belfast Harbour;  Sian Kerr, Director of Transport Planning and Policy at the Department for Infrastructure; Tzvetelina Bogoina, Director of Infrastructure Delivery, NI Water; Liz Kimmins MLA, Minister for Infrastructure; Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour; Jennifer Morgan, Construction Director of the Strule Shared Education Campus at the Department of Education; Jill Harrower-Steele, General Counsel at Lagan Specialist Contracting; and Vicki Hawthorne, Political Correspondent, UTV and MC for the event.