Date: 25th June 2026

Venue: Harbour Hotel, Bristol

Join us for the launch of Women in Fenestration at our inaugural Professional Development Day.

This event brings together women from across the industry for a day designed to inspire, connect and support. It marks the beginning of a new network focused on creating meaningful opportunities for development, visibility and collaboration within fenestration.

More than just an event, this is the starting point for a wider initiative. Introducing our mentoring programme, launching membership and sharing our plans for the future of the network.

Why Attend

This is a unique opportunity to step away from the day to day and invest time in your own development, while connecting with others who understand the industry and the challenges within it.

Throughout the day, you will hear from experienced voices, gain practical insight and take part in open, honest conversations about working in fenestration today.

Whether you are looking to build confidence, expand your network or gain a fresh perspective on your career, the event is designed to leave you with valuable takeaways and a stronger sense of direction.

Keynote Speaker

We are proud to welcome Sara Brearley, author of Why Won’t You Let Me Speak?, as our keynote speaker.

Sara’s work focuses on helping individuals build confidence, communicate with clarity and ensure their voice is heard in the workplace. Her session will provide practical tools and real-world strategies that can be applied immediately. Whether you are presenting ideas, contributing in meetings or stepping into leadership conversations.

This is a session designed not just to inspire, but to equip attendees with the confidence and skills to communicate more effectively and progress in their careers.

Mentoring Programme Launch

A key moment within the day will be the launch of the Women in Fenestration mentoring programme.

Led by Clare Bailey, an experienced commercial leader with over 25 years in senior roles across manufacturing and construction. The programme has been designed to create meaningful, structured support for women across the industry.

Clare’s career spans leadership roles including Group Commercial Projects Director at Epwin Group Plc and Managing Director of Epwin Window Systems, bringing a wealth of real-world experience and insight.

The session will introduce how the programme will work, who it is for and how to get involved as either a mentor or mentee. Offering a valuable opportunity to be part of the programme from the very beginning.

Led by Nickie West, Event Director at the FIT Show, this panel brings together respected voices from across the industry for an open and honest conversation about their experiences.

This session will explore the realities of building a career in fenestration. How each panellist entered the industry, the barriers they have faced and the moments that shaped their progression.

The discussion will go beyond surface-level insight, offering practical advice, shared experiences and reflections on what needs to change to better support and retain women within the sector.

Panel Discussion

Breaking Barriers in Fenestration

AI, Confidence & Everyday Support,

with Carly Grant, AI Consultant & Trainer, Thinkivity

AI is changing the way we work and live, but for many people it still feels overwhelming, technical or difficult to access.

This session is designed to change that.

Carly will explore how AI tools such as ChatGPT can be used in practical everyday ways to:

• Build confidence
• Save time
• Support productivity
• Help people manage the many roles they balance both professionally and personally.

Charity Partner

Harry’s Pals is a charity dedicated to supporting parents who have received the devastating news that their child has a severe illness or disability. At a time when families are often left to cope alone, the charity provides vital emotional support through counselling, therapy and peer connections. Helping parents navigate some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Founded from lived experience, Harry’s Pals was created to ensure that no parent feels isolated or unsupported following a life-changing diagnosis.

Through our raffle and fundraising activity on the day, we aim to raise awareness and contribute to the important work they do supporting families when they need it most.

AGENDA

Looking Ahead

This event marks the beginning of Women in Fenestration as an ongoing network.

Throughout the day, we will introduce the opportunities available beyond the event. From mentoring and membership to future events and partnerships, giving attendees the chance to be part of the network from the very start.

This is more than a single day. Iit is the start of something bigger.

An opportunity to be part of a growing network, to build meaningful connections and to contribute to shaping the future of women in the fenestration industry.

Secure your place and be part of the launch