5 Minutes with… Monika Thomas

“5 Minutes with…” is an interview series designed to bring TRA members closer together, helping to build a cohesive and unified voice within the timber engineering industry.

In this feature, we caught up with Monika Thomas, Business Unit Manager – Offsite Construction at ITW, who recently joined TRA’s Management Committee. Monika shared her journey into the world of timber engineering, reflecting on her proudest achievements, her advice for those entering the field, and her vision for the industry’s future.

What first brought your attention to a career in timber engineering?

It was honestly pure coincidence. After graduating from university, I explored different career paths and reached out to a few recruitment agencies. One of them introduced me to an opportunity with ITW, which specialises in industrial manufacturing for construction products. I didn’t have any prior experience in this sector and wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but I decided to take a leap of faith and dive in.

Initially, I was a bit overwhelmed by the technical aspects and the industry’s complexity, but I quickly became fascinated by the impact our products and innovations could have on construction. I found that timber engineering brought together both creativity and problem-solving in a way that resonated with me.

Looking back, joining ITW was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I’m so glad I was open to trying something outside my comfort zone.

What has been your proudest moment in your career to date?

Instead of one single event, my proudest moments are spread across many days and experiences. I feel incredibly proud each time I see my team members grow and develop.

Watching them tackle new challenges, gain confidence, and achieve their professional goals is rewarding. There is something so powerful about supporting others on their journeys and witnessing their successes—it’s a continual source of pride for me.

Each milestone, project or even the small wins add up and remind me why I chose this path.

But if I had to choose one highlight, it would be the ongoing privilege of supporting my team’s development. Their growth and achievements reflect not only their dedication but also the supportive culture we’ve created together.

What advice would you give someone starting out in your profession?

My main piece of advice is to keep an open mind and embrace every learning opportunity that comes your way.

In an industry as technical and fast-evolving as timber engineering, every experience can teach you something valuable. Be proactive about asking questions and don’t shy away from seeking guidance from those around you. It’s okay not to have all the answers right away, as long as you’re willing to learn.

Another key element is creativity and adaptability. The construction industry is constantly evolving, and timber engineering is at the forefront of innovation. Being adaptable and open to new ideas will serve you well in this field. Challenge the norms, bring fresh perspectives to the table, and never be afraid to innovate. It’s those who stay curious and adaptable that often make the biggest impact.

If you could change one thing about the construction industry, what would it be and why?

If I could make one change, it would be to foster a more diverse and inclusive workforce with greater flexibility.

The construction industry has traditionally been perceived as rigid in terms of roles and expectations, but I believe a more diverse team brings fresh ideas, perspectives, and solutions. Diversity doesn’t just mean demographic variety—it also means different ways of thinking, different backgrounds, and a broader set of skills.

Greater flexibility is also essential for attracting new talent and retaining experienced professionals. By introducing more flexible work arrangements, we could improve work-life balance, making it easier for people to join and stay in the industry. This shift toward inclusivity and flexibility would create a more welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive.

If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be and why?

I’d love to have dinner with someone like Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Her relentless work for gender equality and justice changed countless lives and reshaped societal norms in such profound ways. To me, her resilience and commitment to making a difference—despite the many challenges she faced—are incredibly inspiring.

Over dinner, I’d want to hear about the personal experiences that shaped her, her thoughts on resilience, and how she managed to overcome obstacles. I’d also be curious about her perspective on the future and how she envisioned a more inclusive world. Her life’s work left such a lasting legacy, and I think the lessons she could share would be incredibly valuable—not only for my own career and personal growth but for anyone striving to make a meaningful impact.