Female crane operator says her male colleagues stare at her and always underestimate her

A female crane operator has opened up about the struggles of working in a male-dominated industry.

Kate Fahey is the youngest person in Ireland to do what she does and her entry into the field was a complete accident.

The 19-year-old certainly didn't set out to go into crane driving, but, after completing a summer job at her dad's worksite, she knew what she wanted to do.

While she might be a trailblazer for being so young and driving a massive machine, she says the job does have some downsides.

“People tend to undermine me,” the Galway teen explained.

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“There have been times where new lads have started on site and it’s like they’ve never seen a crane before with how much they stare.”

Kate says she's had to build up a bit of a backbone to get through her job.

“When I was working in Dublin I came down to meet the delivery driver who looked shocked to see me and constantly asked if I was the banksman and if I was qualified,” she said.

The 19-year-old added: “The first time I climbed up the ladder for the crane, all the lads were saying how I was underestimating it and that I’ll have a panic attack when I get too high up.

“I wasn’t even nervous about the height.

“Truth be told I hadn’t even thought about it, I was just nervous about learning a new role but once I got up there and saw the view I was blown away. I’ve loved it ever since.”

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She says people have inundated her with messages of support and say she's a big inspiration for others to get into unlikely jobs.

“I received messages about my career, from girls and guys, because becoming a crane operator isn’t something that has a clear pathway like university or an apprenticeship, you sort of just fall into it as I did,” Fahey revealed.

“I’ve not heard back from all of them but I know two are now qualified so it’s lovely to feel like I’ve inspired some people,” she said.

“To anyone, girls and boys, if you truly have an interest in construction then I’d always urge you to go for it.”

Kate says she loves the banter that happens on the site and getting to work alongside so many unique people.