The first-ever Women in Timber Conference was a resounding success, bringing together 120 women from across the timber supply chain for a day of inspiration, networking and empowerment.
Held at Oulton Hall in Leeds and hosted by Timber Development UK (TDUK), the event marked a milestone moment for all the women working in what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry.
The conference created a welcoming space where women could meet, share stories, ask questions, and learn more about every part of the timber sector. It was also a chance to celebrate the incredible achievements of those women in the industry while encouraging even more to join this thriving, sustainable sector.
An impressive line-up of speakers joined the event, including Christella Golby (Timber Trades’ Benevolent Society – TTBS), and Judy Parsons (LinkedIn trainer and mentor).
Judy used her expertise on LinkedIn to offer advice on how to make the best use of the platform, as well as how to build a personal brand. Christella shared the work that TTBS does to support those in need, which includes offering financial and wellbeing support.
Meanwhile, Michelle Buckland (Miro Forestry), Camilla Fish (SCA Products UK), Claire Toomey (Howdens Joinery), Rosie Wise (Benchmarx Kitchen & Joinery), all shared honest and thought-provoking insights from their careers in the industry. From leadership lessons to the importance of curiosity and lifelong learning, their talks left attendees feeling inspired and ready to make their voices heard.
The day wasn’t just about talks and networking – it was also about making a difference. Thanks to the generosity of attendees and sponsors, a lively charity raffle raised over £1,700 for the TTBS, supporting colleagues in the timber industry who face hardship.
Karen Sussex, TDUK’s Head of Operations, said: “This conference wasn’t just an event – it’s the start of a movement. Seeing so many women come together to support one another and openly share experiences was incredibly powerful. We’re proud of the positive energy this day created and can’t wait to build on it.”
Laura Qualters, TDUK Membership Development Manager and whose idea the event was, added: “Women in Timber started as a simple idea: to create a space where women in our industry could connect, learn and feel seen. The energy in that room was amazing, and raising over £1,700 for TTBS shows just how supportive this community is.”
Attendees praised the event for its open atmosphere and practical takeaways, with many commenting that they left feeling motivated to lead change in their own workplaces. The message was clear: representation matters, and building a strong network of women in timber is essential for the sector’s future.
The Women in Timber conference has laid the groundwork for ongoing initiatives to champion diversity, encourage learning, and celebrate the incredible women shaping the timber industry.
The event was organised by the Women in Timber Committee, which comprised TDUK’s Karen Sussex and Laura Qualters, Jessica Vernon from Timber Garden Buildings, Chidi Adilih-Osim from Timber Trades Journal, and Sian Moreton from BSW Timber.
