International Women in Engineering Day: Clare Gallagher

Clare Gallagher joined us in 1990 and has worked on some of the most iconic projects in our recent history, including the 2012 Olympic Stadium and the Emirates Stadium.

Now Project Manager at Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus in Bristol, Clare discusses her family legacy at Sir Robert McAlpine, her highlights from a 35-year career so far and passing her knowledge on to the next generation of aspiring engineers. 

Early beginnings and family legacy

Clare's interest in engineering was sparked by her grandfather, who worked for us for 40 years, starting as a labourer and later being appointed as a general foreman. He worked on many projects and was even involved in building the Mulberry Harbours during World War Two, but one project has particular resonance: the Gabalfa flyover in Cardiff, known in her family as ‘Grandad’s bridge’. 

This family connection to civil engineering, coupled with her A-level studies in maths, physics, and geography, led Clare to pursue a career in the field. She began her journey straight from sixth form in 1990, gaining summer experience and later being sponsored through university.  

Having spent much of her career based in London, the Gallagher’s story came full circle when Clare moved back to Wales in 2015 and was the Project Manager delivering Central Square, a major government hub building in Cardiff – just a few miles away from ‘Grandad’s bridge’. 

“It is nice to have that legacy” admits Clare, who has also worked on the decarbonisation project in nearby Port Talbot, another project her grandfather worked on for many years. 

Career highlights 

Clare's career is marked by several significant projects that showcase her expertise and leadership, but which does she pick out as particular highlights? 

“The Emirates Stadium is probably the big one,” Clare says. “It was a fantastic experience because we had such a close relationship with the client, and an integrated project team with clear objectives we could deliver on. 

“We talk a lot about close collaboration and communication now, and these were things we were exemplary at on this project. Both the client and ourselves understood exactly what we wanted to achieve and by having that constant dialogue, changes were managed in a very straightforward manner. 

“We took a lot of the lessons learned from that into the Olympic Stadium too. The early engagement and lengthy PCSA periods meant we could iron out a lot of the issues before we actually started. 

“Being home in Cardiff and delivering the HMRC building was another fantastic project. We had a small team but a great relationship with the client, designers and supply chain, and it was incredibly successful.” 

Advice for the next generation 

Clare has observed significant changes in the construction industry over the years, particularly the increased flexibility in working arrangements. This has opened more opportunities for women, especially those with young families. 

She is also now passing all her invaluable skills, knowledge and industry insights to emerging talent as a Supervising Engineer with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). 

“I enjoy making sure the next generation get supported and get the right experiences to enable them to become leaders and managers in their own right,” she explains. 

Her best advice for anyone looking for a future in construction?  

“Keep asking questions and never be afraid to ask for support. I was always taught if it looks wrong it probably is wrong so seek advice if you are in any doubt and never try to cover up mistakes.”