Rachael Gilbert
WiBSE North West (NW) was relaunched in June to coincide with Women in Engineering Day. It has quickly become a cornerstone of support and empowerment for women and gender-diverse professionals in Manchester’s building services industry.
Its monthly Supper Club was created to provide a welcoming space where attendees can share experiences, foster connections and inspire one another. In just over six months, the club has evolved into a vibrant network, proving the importance of community in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Why is WiBSE North West important?
Many women in the industry experience the feeling of being the odd one out when walking into a male-dominated space. WiBSE NW was founded to address this issue by giving women and gender-diverse individuals a platform to feel seen, heard and supported. Through events such as the Supper Club, the group fosters inclusivity, encouraging members to build relationships that help them navigate their careers confidently.
What kind of events do you host?
Over the past six months, WiBSE NW has hosted impactful events that highlight the importance of connection. The Supper Club is rooted in face-to-face engagement, allowing participants to build authentic relationships and draw strength from shared experiences. Other events have included the WiBSE Winter Warmer at the Manchester Christmas Markets.
These activities go beyond socialising; they emphasise the belief that informal, welcoming spaces can strengthen professional ties and foster long-term support networks.
How is WiBSE expanding its reach?
The success of WiBSE NW has attracted interest from other regions and associations looking to set up their own networks. I will support this growth by offering advice and insights into launching a group. Whether it is guidance on organising events or sharing experiences that make a difference, WiBSE is a resource to champion inclusivity and strengthen local industry networks.
This year, the group is expanding its reach regionally, hosting a mixed quiz night, the first event to invite men. Seeing men warmly embrace the WiBSE space with respect and enthusiasm made the evening even more meaningful, highlighting the power of inclusivity and allyship. Over the rest of the year, WiBSE NW will continue with its Supper Club and hopes to run CPD events on confidence and leadership.
The commitment to fostering spaces where everyone feels valued will continue to guide its growth. The Supper Club concept has been replicated in the south, with WiBSE committee member Harriet Morphew hosting WiBSE Southern’s first dinning event on 7 March, in Brighton.
What top tips would you give to someone looking to launch a WiBSE network in their region?
Be brave – you’re already ahead just by considering this step! Connect with your local region, because support from groups such as CIBSE NW can help spread the word. Encourage colleagues, as a small industry thrives on committed connections. Set a date – momentum starts with one event, such as WiBSE NW’s monthly ‘WiBSE Wednesday’. Keep it small; around 12 people for manageable conversations and organic growth. Choose a comfortable venue for face-to-face networking. Promote it online via Eventbrite, LinkedIn or CIBSE emails, and stay connected.
What are the benefits of joining WiBSE nationally?
Joining WiBSE at a national level offers the opportunity to work alongside the main WiBSE committee. Working at this level means contributing to national awareness initiatives, amplifying the group’s voice, and advocating for gender diversity and representation. Involvement in the broader WiBSE network is a powerful way to make an impact and champion change, ensuring that everyone in the industry has the opportunity to thrive.
Email WiBSE chair Jessica Glynn at jessica.glynn@atelierten.com
