Louise Morgan, Data Quality Administrator at SIG, talks about her experience as a neurodivergent woman in a technical role, detailing how her autism and combined ADHD provide strengths in working with systems and data, and the importance of workplace support for helping her thrive.
I am a Data Quality Administrator within Commercial Management Information Systems and have been with SIG for just over three and a half years.
My work focuses on our Product Information Management system. I manage complex product data and digital assets in a central platform that supports multiple channels, including websites, so the business can work from one accurate source of truth. I also use the PIM to develop our Own Brand product data sheets.
This involves gathering requirements from internal stakeholders, designing the templates in Adobe InDesign, and writing the logic that connects the PIM to the middleware so the templates can be automatically populated. Over time my role has become more technical and now involves structured data design and system logic.
Before joining SIG I worked in accounts for a property development company. Construction felt very traditional and male dominated and I was not sure where someone who enjoys data and structure would fit. At SIG I discovered how much the industry relies on accurate information and technical systems, which is where I found my place.
Being autistic and having ADHD gives me strengths that suit working with systems and data. ADHD gives me energy for chaotic or complex information. Autism gives me a natural focus on patterns, structure and rules. These strengths help me spot inconsistencies quickly and design logical and reliable solutions.
I work best when I understand the full context of a task. Seeing how the pieces fit together helps me anticipate challenges and design processes that are effective and scalable. This combination of detailed thinking and understanding of the wider picture supports good data quality and smooth information flow across the business.
Construction is widely recognised as male dominated, but I do not personally feel that dynamic in my day to day work at SIG. In the past, I sometimes wondered if I was reading environments through my own lens, especially as my autism means I often assume others think and act with the same good intentions I do. My experience at SIG has been different from the broader industry narrative, partly because I work in a back office role rather than in site based or operational areas where imbalance is more noticeable.
I feel that my colleagues recognise what I bring rather than defining me by my gender or disability. I am proud to contribute from a technical angle and to represent the wider range of careers that now exist in construction.
I began my career later in life after spending my earlier adult years raising my children while working part time. When they became more independent, I wanted to build something that was mine, so I started my BA in Business Management part time with the aim of finishing it by age 40.
During that time, I was diagnosed with autism and ADHD. The diagnosis clarified my strengths and helped me understand why I am drawn to structure, logic, systems and data. This clarity shaped my career direction and gave me confidence to move into a more data driven role, which led me to join SIG.
Understanding my neurodiversity also made me aware of internal barriers. I am very focused on the technical side of my work and sometimes worry that I do not naturally communicate in the more corporate style linked with progression. These are skills I am learning so that I do not unintentionally limit myself. This self awareness, combined with determination, helps me navigate the next steps in my career.
When I completed my degree, SIG sponsored my MSc in Computing (Software Engineering). This support gave me confidence that I am valued here and that the business believes in my abilities and potential. It has helped me grow into more technical work and build a career that matches how I think and solve problems.
The biggest support has been the people around me. Having colleagues who believe in me, including Sarah, has made a lasting impact on my confidence. Being part of the Charity and Community Committee and the SIG Women’s Network has helped me feel connected and valued.
Clear expectations, written communication, deadlines and full context for tasks help me work effectively. Autonomy and trust in my technical judgement allow me to do my best work.
Working from home is another helpful adjustment. It allows me to focus without the sensory demands of a busy office. When I am in the office, having quiet breakout spaces and using my loops helps me manage my environment.
My advice for employers on supporting neurodivergent colleagues: Provide clarity, avoid gatekeeping information and ask what someone needs rather than assuming. Welcome questions and value different thinking styles.
One of my previous managers often summarised key points after meetings because he saw it as good practice. This simple approach supported me and made communication clearer for everyone. Small adjustments, open communication and trust can make a meaningful difference.
My advice for neurodiverse women considering this industry would be: There is space for you here. Construction benefits from a variety of perspectives because the work involves many different types of roles, not just traditional site-based ones. The key is finding a role that suits your strengths and how you work best.
Look for environments where individuality is respected and questions are welcomed. With the right support, your perspective can genuinely add value.
I hope my story shows that it is never too late to start a new path, return to education or build confidence. I want other women, especially those who are neurodivergent or late diagnosed, to know that they can succeed by leaning into their strengths and finding environments where they can thrive.
