One of our consultants Josh Baxendale has founded a forward-thinking group & platform and we spoke with him to understand the reasonings, what the group is for and why joining it matters!
Why did you create LGBT in Engineering and Construction
I think engineering and construction are vital sectors for our fast-paced world, and I am glad to be a part of the industry, but for many LGBT+ professionals, it has not always felt and probably doesn’t still feel like a space where they are ‘allowed’ or can show up feeling safe and authentic.
The reason behind the group
I set this group up to create a space for honest and challenging conversations within an industry that has traditionally been slow to talk openly about identity and inclusion.
Too often, LGBT+ engineers, site managers, designers, and construction professionals feel invisible, isolated, or pressured to keep parts of themselves hidden at work. They likely may also feel a level of bias or discrimination during application or interview stages.
Many allies want to do better but do not always know where to start.
What the group is about
LGBT in Engineering and Construction is a professional, supportive, and forward-thinking community focused on real experiences and real change. Within the group, we focus on:
- Highlighting modern-day LGBT+ engineers and construction professionals
- Discussions on inclusion within Engineering and Construction
- Podcasts, events, and community-led initiatives
Why joining the group matters
Joining LGBT in Engineering and Construction is not just about networking. It is about making a difference.
By being part of the group, you help to:
- Give recognition to LGBT+ professionals whose contributions are too often overlooked
- Tackle unconscious bias and prejudice within engineering and construction
- Challenge outdated attitudes and encourage more inclusive workplace cultures
- Support visibility and representation, especially for those early in their careers
- Learn, listen, and grow, whether you identify as LGBT+ or as an ally
Every conversation, post, and shared experience helps move the industry forward.
If you work in engineering or construction and believe our industry can and should be more inclusive, I would love for you to be involved.
- Join the LinkedIn group and be part of the conversation https://www.linkedin.com/groups/16087105/
- Share your story or experiences, if you feel comfortable doing so
- Get in touch with me directly joshbaxendale@coretalent.co.uk if you would like to collaborate, speak on a podcast, support an initiative, or simply have a conversation
