Intro

As AI becomes increasingly integral to construction, it is essential that over the next decade we continue striving toward gender equality and building on the progress of the past ten years. To achieve this (and to reduce the biases already being highlighted) it is crucial to involve a broader and more diverse range of voices in shaping the AI tools that will define the future of our industry.

With this in mind, we have assembled a panel that brings together members of our network who are directly involved in developing AI tools, alongside experts in equity, diversity, and inclusion. The discussion will explore why addressing bias in AI is vital, how greater participation benefits the sector, and the lessons we can apply from previous transformations such as BIM adoption.

Speakers

• Denise O’Leary MBE, Managing Director – Purpol Marketing
  Denise has developed two AI tools with practical applications: one supporting individuals in applying for awards, and another designed to help SMEs navigate the bidding process for work. In developing these tools, she deliberately considered how bias could affect outcomes, ensuring her solutions actively worked to minimise inequities and improve teh applicats opportunities. Her experience demonstrates how thoughtful AI development can empower small businesses while avoiding the pitfalls of bias.

• Gabriel Makinwa, Founder & CEO – Coreloops
  Gabriel has been leading a project aimed at helping SME contractors better manage expenses, profitability, and project finances. His approach involved extensive consultation to ensure the solution was both relevant and accessible to the realities of contractors in the industry. His work highlights the value of user-centred AI design, and the importance of making digital tools inclusive for those on the front line of construction.

• Dian Small, Founder – The Cultural Architect
  Formerly Director at RIBA, Dian is an expert in inclusive leadership and equity-driven organisational change. Through her consultancy, The Cultural Architect, she delivers people development strategies that integrate cultural intelligence, racial awareness, and inclusive leadership into workplace teams. Her perspective will be crucial when considering how best to implement AI in ways that do not replicate the challenges equity, diversity, and inclusion policies have often faced in practice.

• Mairead Gallagher Morgan, BIM Lead Europe & Middle East – Grimshaw Global
  Mairead brings a critical perspective on digital transformation in the construction industry, informed by her leadership in BIM adoption. When BIM was introduced, the industry experienced a “reset” that placed everyone (regardless of gender) on a shared learning curve, while also alleviating traditional safety barriers that previously limited women’s site presence. Mairead’s work and volunteering have given her unique insight into both the opportunities and blind spots of implementation. As AI now promises another major shift, her perspective on avoiding past mistakes in workflows, responsibilities, and change management will be invaluable.

Moderator

• Cristina Lanz Azcarate, NAWIC London & South East, and Founder – Atelier EURA
  Cristina will moderate the discussion, drawing from her experience in industry advocacy and her ongoing at university and volunteering to improve inclusion across the built environment.