‘Don’t let anything hold you back: the construction industry really needs women’

When Thirza Posthouwer completed her associate’s degree in Business Economics, she had no idea what industry she would end up in. A post on LinkedIn announcing her graduation changed everything. Among the many responses, one employer immediately stood out: BauWatch. Four years later, she hasn’t regretted that choice for a moment. In fact, she wants to show other women just how appealing the construction and infrastructure sectors can be.

“With my education, I could have worked just about anywhere,” she says. “It was pure coincidence that I ended up in construction. But I feel right at home here.” After completing her VMBO, she attended a vocational program at the hotel school and then earned an associate’s degree in Business Economics. While searching for her first job, she interviewed in various industries. Yet the enthusiasm at BauWatch was immediately palpable. “After my interview, I thought: this is the right fit for me. The pace, the mindset, and the people appealed to me right away.”

Preventing Delays

Today, she works as an account manager and security consultant. In this role, she advises construction companies, project developers, and other organizations on security for various locations, including construction sites, vacant properties, and infrastructure projects. This includes video surveillance, fire and evacuation systems, access control, and employee registration. “My goal is to ensure that projects aren’t delayed by theft, vandalism, or unauthorized access. We work with clients to identify risks and develop security plans tailored to those needs.”

Proud

A significant part of Thirza’s work takes place outside the office. In her work area, which stretches from Apeldoorn and Arnhem to Nijmegen, Ede, and the Betuwe, she visits clients and project sites every day. “That’s exactly what makes it so much fun. You’re on the road a lot, talking to different people, and watching projects take shape. When I visit a construction site, there’s often something new that’s been completed. You literally see something coming to life.” That enthusiasm is amplified by the people she works with. “Site supervisors and project managers often speak with great pride about their projects. That dedication is contagious. You’re indirectly contributing to something tangible that’s being built.”

Clear and Direct

Thirza doesn’t see the fact that the construction industry is still often viewed as a man’s world as a disadvantage. On the contrary. “I actually like it. Communication is clear and direct. People say what they’re going to do and do what they say. That no-nonsense culture aligns well with my own values. Personally, I wouldn’t fit in as well in an environment where only women work. In construction and infrastructure, it’s all about working together, getting things done, and delivering results.”

Her message to women who are hesitant about a career in construction or infrastructure is therefore clear: don’t let prejudice hold you back. “There are so many roles where you can make a difference. You don’t have to be on the construction site yourself to be part of great projects. The sector offers opportunities, variety, and plenty of chances to develop yourself. For me, it was an unexpected choice, but it was the best one I could have made.”