Navigating imposter syndrome in a male dominated industry
Pam Wilson has successfully navigated imposter syndrome to pave the way for women in construction
Reading Time 2 minutes
Pam Wilson is the Managing Director and Project Manager at Kevin Wilson Master Builders (KWMB), a family-run construction company based in Stirling, Scotland. Founded in 2007 by Pam and her husband Kevin, the company specialises in domestic renovations, including new builds, extensions, kitchens, and redesigns.
The business began with a modest investment of £13,000 from a house sale, which the couple used to buy a van, tools, and insurance to start their operations. However, just a year later, the 2008 financial crash hit, plunging the construction industry into turmoil. With no work by the end of their third year, Pam and Kevin sought accreditation from the Federation of Master Builders to gain a competitive edge. This decision paid off when they secured a three-month renovation project, providing a much-needed lifeline. Over time, their reputation for quality work grew, culminating in their biggest project in 2018—a £350,000 renovation of a historic pavilion turned café.
Despite these successes, the challenges didn’t end there. The Covid-19 pandemic brought the business to a standstill, leaving Pam to confront one of the most difficult periods of her life. With construction work halted, she had to furlough staff and faced the possibility of losing her home. Yet, Pam’s determination to adapt led her to pivot the business model. She expanded operations by moving to a larger workshop, enabling the production of tools and diversifying into new services like KW Bathrooms, KW Kitchens, and KW Project Management. These changes not only stabilised the business but also created new revenue streams, ensuring its survival.
Pam’s decision to enroll in the Help to Grow: Management Course in 2021 marked a turning point. The course equipped her with formal business training, allowing her to revisit the fundamentals of running a company and rebuild her confidence. Through mentorship and collaboration with her cohort, Pam discovered renewed passion for her work and developed strategies to maximise productivity. She credits the course with helping her overcome imposter syndrome and empowering her to step forward as a female leader in the male-dominated construction industry.
The impact of the course went beyond personal growth. Pam leveraged her newfound confidence to establish two additional businesses: Pam Wilson Property Management and Destination Scotland. The latter offers a turnkey service for international clients investing in Scottish properties, reflecting Pam’s ability to identify market needs and deliver solutions. Her leadership and vision also earned her the position of President of the Federation of Master Builders in Scotland, where she advocates for inclusivity and excellence in the industry.
Pam’s commitment to going above and beyond for her clients has been a cornerstone of KWMB’s success. Whether it’s ensuring a house becomes a home or fostering meaningful relationships with collaborators, she prioritises quality and care. This ethos was recognised in 2023 when KWMB received the Federation of Master Builders’ Heavenly Builder Award for their compassionate approach to a sensitive renovation project.
Reflecting on her journey, Pam acknowledges the importance of valuing herself and her expertise. From navigating financial crises to leading multiple businesses, she has proven that resilience and adaptability are key to overcoming challenges. Today, she views the future with optimism, confident in her ability to continue growing her ventures and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
