In an industry built on precision, resilience, and innovation, emerging talent plays a vital role in shaping the future of construction. Few embody this spirit more powerfully than Amy Kelly, Assistant Site Manager at G F Tomlinson, winner of the NFB’s Rising Star award in 2025.  Her rapid rise, forward-thinking approach, and commitment to community have established her as one of the sector’s most exciting young leaders.

From her earliest days in the industry, Amy demonstrated the drive and determination that positioned her as a standout employee. Having joined G F Tomlinson in 2018 as a Technical Trainee, she has progressed to Assistant Site Manager in under six years – an achievement built on hard work, continuous learning, and a natural aptitude for leadership.

Amy’s academic achievements reflect her ambition. She was the first student to earn a Distinction in the Level 4 Professional Construction Apprenticeship at Derby College Group and complemented her early career by completing a BTEC Level 3 in Construction and the Built Environment. Her further commitment to professional development led her to begin a BSc (Hons) in Construction Management at Nottingham Trent University in 2023, just before earning a well-deserved promotion.

Her career journey has already seen her support the delivery of significant projects across the Midlands, including Oscott Manor School, South Nottinghamshire Academy, and more recently the landmark Sherwood Observatory redevelopment. On each scheme, Amy’s influence extends far beyond technical delivery. She has become a catalyst for operational improvement by refining internal systems, strengthening quality control processes and championing collaborative working practices that empower teams to perform at their best.

Amy’s leadership style is one of her most compelling qualities. Hands-on, inclusive, and deeply people-focused, she leads not through instruction alone, but through action. She inspires those around her by setting high standards for herself and consistently going the extra mile for the benefit of her colleagues, clients, and communities.  A passionate advocate for innovation, Amy is quick to explore new technologies and construction techniques, actively sharing this knowledge across her teams. Her willingness to challenge outdated practices and seek continuous improvement ensures she remains at the forefront of modern construction methods which helps to future-proof the industry as it evolves.

Beyond the boundaries of the building site, Amy is a powerful ambassador for construction careers. She has engaged with more than 400 students in the last 18 months, regularly attending school visits, career fairs, and mentoring T-Level students on placement. As an active member of the Constructing West Midlands Women’s Forum, she plays a vital role in raising the visibility of women in construction and inspiring the next generation to discover opportunities within the sector.

Women in Construction – Lees Brook School Talk

Her commitment to community shines especially brightly in her social value work. During the Sherwood Observatory project, Amy contributed to delivering more than £2 million in social and economic value. She dedicated her own time to volunteer at public open days, lead tours, and strengthen community links, helping transform a construction site into a shared, educational space for local residents.

Equally notable is Amy’s leadership in sustainability. As an Environmental Champion, she has introduced initiatives such as:

Establishing an on-site greenhouse to grow produce with the site supervisor.

Coordinating reuse schemes, including donating surplus sand to two local golf clubs.

Promoting mental health initiatives like “Bring a Bake” events, “Zen Zones,” and engagement with the Lighthouse Charity.

These contributions are testament to Amy’s holistic approach to construction, taking into account social impact and environmental responsibility. Amy exemplifies what it means to be a rising star in the industry, and she is a natural leader who uplifts and upskills the team while delivering exceptional work. Her positivity and vision for championing sustainability and social impact on all of her projects, alongside her nurturing nature, are already paving the way to inspire the next generation and future of the industry.