Navigating the Construction Industry as a Disabled Professional

Description

In this conversation, Bailey shares her journey as a sustainability manager in the construction industry while navigating the challenges of being a wheelchair user. She discusses her passion for environmental sustainability, the barriers she faced in the job market, and the discrimination she encountered in the workplace. The conversation also touches on the importance of accessibility in construction, the individual impact on environmental sustainability, and the debate surrounding electric vehicles and their accessibility. Bailey emphasizes the need for inclusive practices in housing and the construction industry, highlighting the barriers that still exist for disabled individuals. In this conversation, Bailey and Charlie discuss the multifaceted challenges faced by disabled individuals, particularly in the realms of housing, environmental consciousness, and employment. They share personal experiences navigating the complexities of accessible housing, the guilt associated with environmental impact due to necessary medical supplies, and the importance of representation and understanding in the workplace. The dialogue emphasizes the need for systemic change to create inclusive environments that recognize the unique contributions of disabled individuals. In this conversation, Bailey and Charlie explore the complexities of disability advocacy, emphasizing the importance of embracing imperfection and the need for open dialogue about accessibility. They discuss the challenges faced by disabled individuals in the recruitment process, the significance of autonomy, and the power of humor in navigating societal perceptions. The conversation highlights the necessity for employers to create inclusive environments and the importance of empowering disabled job seekers to pursue their aspirations despite societal misconceptions.

takeaways

Bailey is a sustainability manager in construction and a wheelchair user.

Her role involves overseeing environmental and social sustainability.

She founded 'Disability with Bailey' to advocate for disabled individuals in the workplace.

Discrimination in the workplace is a common experience for disabled individuals.

Accessibility in construction is often overlooked, despite its importance.

Individual actions can contribute to environmental sustainability, but collective change is necessary.

Electric vehicle charging points are rarely accessible for disabled individuals.

The construction industry is resistant to change and often sticks to traditional practices.

New builds often fail to meet accessibility needs, highlighting systemic issues. Accessible housing is a significant challenge for disabled individuals.

Environmental consciousness can be difficult for those with disabilities due to medical needs.

Timestamp

00:00:00 Intro

00:01:08 Welcome Bailey

00:01:37 I'm a Sustainability Manager

00:03:09 Construction

00:13:24 Dads That Fix Things

00:15:51 CO2 vs Meat vs Soy

00:19:11 Disabled Electric Spaces

00:24:30 The Curb Cut Effect - Resist Change

00:27:56 New Builds

00:31:37 Tale About a Parking Space