Sarah Beale awarded UWTSD honorary fellowship

CITB Chief Executive Sarah Beale has received an honorary fellowship from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD).

Sarah, who was nominated by Pro-Vice-Chancellor Jane Davidson, received the award during a graduation ceremony at Brangwyn Hall on July 17.

UWTSD’s Skills Champion for Wales and Pro-Vice-Chancellor Barry Liles presented Sarah to the congregation. He said: “In her role Sarah’s achievements are numerous, but today we honour her on two other fronts. Firstly, as the University of Wales Trinity Saint David we recognise her for her contribution to skills development in Wales.

“We also acknowledge the tremendous passion she has for inclusivity and diversity in the construction industry. Sarah is keen to use her national position to influence and change the industry for the better.”

Barry praised Sarah’s work on a range of key areas including support for mental health in the sector and inclusivity for individuals from a BAME and LGBT background and also people with disabilities.

He added: “She also tirelessly strives for greater representation for women in construction, in a sector traditionally viewed as male-dominated.

“One of her latest initiatives led to a very successful CITB International Women’s Day which saw over 600 girls from schools across Wales engage in and experience potential career roles in construction.”

Commenting on the award Sarah said: “I’m absolutely privileged and somewhat humbled to receive this award. 

“Thank you to the University for this huge honour  It’s my privilege to work with the university as a partner in my working life.  CITB chooses its partners very carefully.  Having a partner that has supported over 25,000 learners and new recruits for the construction sector is nothing short of brilliant. Not only that, but a partner that values placing the learner at the heart of everything and that wants to continually innovate, both in what they offer and how they deliver it. 

“To the graduates – this is your day, huge congratulations to you.  You must be very proud of everything you’ve achieved.”