Ashfield company Doorcerts is using this week’s International Women’s Day to encourage girls and young women to look at a future career in manufacturing and construction.

Every  year International Women’s Day is held to “celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women” around the world.

Doorcerts, which is based in Stanton Hill, is led by commercial manager Sarah Armson. She wants to encourage more women and girls to get into industry.

Statistics show that women make up around 25 percent of the manufacturing workforce, while in construction, this figure is around just 15 percent.

Sarah, a former apprentice, is a member of Mansfield and Ashfield 2020’s Women In Business group, and completed a Women In Leadership course run by Nottingham Trent University.

She says she admires a number of businesswomen, including Dragons Den star Deborah Meaden, and Carolyn Radford, who is the chief executive and co-owner of Mansfield Town Football Club.

She said: “There is simply no reason why women cannot forge careers in the manufacturing and construction industry.

“Things are changing for the better but mindsets are the most important things that need to change. Some women and girls think that manufacturing is a man’s job, while some men do not think women are suited to certain roles.

“In fact, we did not have one female apply for a role as an apprentice. This has to change. The jobs are there, and in the right environment, there is no reason why women cannot flourish and lead careers based on their skills and merit.”

And she added: “That’s why days like International Women’s Day are important. They can be used as a beacon to lead the way.”

Doorcerts, based in Brierley Park Close, manufactures bespoke fire doors, and standard doors, and supplies necessary ironmongery and more, such as door handles or secure entry systems.

Sarah’s colleague, Kelly Wheeler, started working in the industry at the age of 20, and has spent a career in manufacturing.

She said: “There are many different roles in manufacturing and construction, and the old-fashioned view of a factory should be consigned to history.

“While some attitudes do need to change, there is no reason why women coming into industry cannot succeed by working hard and doing their best. We are already breaking down barriers so now is the time to take up the opportunities.”

Doorcerts is inviting schools and colleges in Nottinghamshire to get in touch to arrange a visit from Sarah Armson, who is experienced at giving talks to young people to try to get them to think about manufacturing as a career option.

Any educational setting wanting to have Sarah visit should email [email protected].