As part of our in-depth coverage of the NFB Construction Awards of Excellence, Britbuild sat down with Claire Wallbridge PGCE, a leading figure in construction training and a passionate advocate for skills development. 

Claire is part of the Natural Stone Industry Training Group and serves as Chairman of the Craft and Training Committee at the Worshipful Company of Masons.

With years of experience promoting training and apprenticeships, as well as a personal family connection to traditional masonry, Claire has a unique perspective on why celebrating achievement in construction matters so much.

 In this interview, she reflects on her role as a judge, the importance of skills, and what the awards mean for the future of the sector.

For those who may not know, could you introduce yourself and your current roles within the construction industry?

I am involved with the Natural Stone Industry Training Group and also chair the Craft and Training Committee at the Worshipful Company of Masons. 

Over time, my career took me firmly into training, and that has shaped the expertise I bring to the table. I see the importance of apprenticeships, structured learning, and lifelong development. These are vital for sustaining both traditional crafts and modern construction methods.

You have been a judge, previously for the Construction Awards of Excellence. Why do you feel the awards are so important to the industry?

The awards are important because they recognise the high standards and skills that exist within construction. They celebrate the work of both companies and individuals, and they demonstrate the excellence that often goes unseen outside the sector.

It is crucial that people who are not directly involved in construction understand the depth of experience and skill that we have. Too often, the perception from outside is very different from the reality. These awards highlight the breadth of what the industry can do, from traditional craftsmanship to cutting-edge innovation.

They also provide something aspirational. For those still training or early in their careers, seeing the level of achievement on display is motivating. It shows that excellence is within reach if you work hard and commit to high standards.

The construction industry has had a particularly challenging few years. Why is it so vital that we continue to celebrate excellence during times like these?

It is of the utmost importance. The sector has been under pressure in so many ways, yet despite that, incredible projects continue to be delivered. Recognising those achievements matter.

It can be truly aspirational. At times we forget the impact our work has on others, and these awards serve as both a celebration and a vital reminder of that.

As an industry, we achieve remarkable things, and we should not be shy about shouting from the rooftops. I firmly believe this is important, because too many people still misunderstand the depth of skill and expertise that exists within construction.

By taking a moment to celebrate excellence, we not only acknowledge the individuals and organisations involved, but we also reaffirm to ourselves and to the wider public that construction is about skill, quality, and dedication.

You touched earlier on your family background in masonry. How has that shaped your outlook?

Although I did not become a stone mason myself, I grew up in a family of masons. 

At the time, I did not fully understand the knowledge I was gaining by being around them, listening to their conversations, and seeing their work. As a child, I probably took it for granted.

It was only later, when I was working in training, that I realised how much I had absorbed. I began to fully appreciate the craftsmanship and skill involved, as well as the pride that comes from producing work that lasts.

That background gave me a respect for traditional skills, but my own contribution has been in training. I see how essential it is to pass on knowledge and to ensure that people coming into the industry are given the right foundation. That is where I feel I have been able to make a difference.

From your perspective as a judge, what do you look for when assessing entries?

I look for quality, of course, but also for the story behind the project or achievement. What challenges were overcome? What difference did the work make to the people who use or benefit from it? How did training, skills, or innovation play a role in making it successful?

It is not just about the finished product; it is about the journey. The best entries demonstrate not only technical excellence, but also commitment, creativity, and collaboration. That is what makes them stand out.

What message would you give to this year’s finalists?

They should be extremely proud. Reaching the finalist stage is already a significant achievement. The level of competition is very high, and the quality of work submitted is excellent.

Being recognised in this way shows that their work is valued and respected across the industry. Whether they win or not, they are setting an example and inspiring others.

Finally, what do the Construction Awards of Excellence mean to you personally?

For me, they represent pride, recognition, and aspiration. They are about celebrating what has been achieved, but also about looking forward. They highlight the skills and dedication that make construction such a vital industry.

The awards also remind us to share our successes with the wider world. Too often, construction keeps its head down and just gets on with the job. These awards give us the chance to say: look at what we have achieved, look at the skills involved, and look at the difference this work makes.

That is why they matter so much. They celebrate today, but they also inspire tomorrow.