Reimagining careers in construction: Meet Hannah Foster, Business Administration Apprentice at Wates Construction
Reimagining careers in construction: Meet Hannah Foster, Business Administration Apprentice at Wates Construction
At just 18, Hannah Foster is already making waves in the construction industry.
As a Business Administration Apprentice with our Construction business at the AESC UK Gigafactory project, Hannah is not only thriving in a fast-paced environment, but she is also helping to reimagine what a young career in construction can look like.
A day in the life working on site at the UK’s largest EV battery plant
No two days are ever the same for Hannah — and that’s exactly what she loves about her job.
My role at AESC UK consists of all things admin. It’s hard to give a ‘typical day’ because every day brings new challenges to solve. That’s what keeps it exciting.”
From supporting daily site inductions for over 30 people to managing access through fingerprint registration, booking car parking, handling client inductions and even reviewing CCTV footage during incidents, Hannah plays a crucial role in the smooth, safe and efficient running of a site that will ultimately power the UK’s electric vehicle future.
From dance floors to construction sites: a surprising career turn
Construction wasn’t Hannah’s initial plan.
I never imagined myself in construction. I just knew A-Levels weren’t for me and I wanted to start working. I saw this apprenticeship and gave it a go — with no background in the industry.”
It turned out to be one of the best decisions she ever made.
I discovered how many different roles come together behind the scenes. I love the fast pace and the variety. I feel like I’m contributing to something real and important.”
Outside of work, Hannah brings her energy and passion to teaching dance, having competed for 14 years before transitioning into mentoring younger students.
Facing challenges head-on
With over 2,000 people on site and over 10,000 inducted to date, managing inductions, communications and schedules is no small task. Hannah’s biggest challenge? Staying ahead in an unpredictable environment.
Organising events like our charity darts tournament or Summer Start Right briefings means co-ordinating lots of people with different shifts and priorities. It taught me how valuable it is to stay organised and communicate clearly.”
Despite the pressure, Hannah excels — turning chaos into clarity and always ready with a backup plan.
Reimagining leadership at a young age
Hannah might be early in her career, but she’s already showing the qualities of a future leader.
Her line manager, Kelly Hanley, puts it simply: “She knows more about CSCS than some of our team. She’s working far beyond her years.”
Whether it’s confidently turning someone away at an induction for not meeting safety standards or taking the lead at large-scale events, Hannah’s initiative, problem-solving mindset and communication skills make her a standout.
I’m eager to explore new areas like Health & Safety and Site Management. My goal is to keep learning and growing.”
A passion for social value and wellbeing
Hannah isn’t just contributing to Wates through her day job — she’s also a force for positive change across the project.
From creating wellbeing walks to organising charity raffles and setting up community gardens on site, Hannah’s efforts go beyond admin. She volunteers with local charities, talks at schools, promotes recycling and supports workers during difficult times.
I want to inspire the next generation to see that construction isn’t just hard hats — it’s about people, purpose and community.”
Advice for the next generation
Hannah’s message for young people considering construction?
Don’t rule it out. There’s so much more to this industry than people think. If you’re open to trying something new, you might find yourself really enjoying it — just like I did.”
Thriving in a future-focused industry
Through her initiative, adaptability and commitment to social impact, Hannah is not just navigating her apprenticeship — she’s thriving in it. Her story is a testament to how the industry is evolving and how young professionals like her are helping to reimagine what construction can be: inclusive, dynamic and deeply human.
Wates — and the industry — has a bright future with people like Hannah leading the way!
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