Women in Scaffolding: Misia Kardasinska’s Inspiring Journey with Sandwell Scaffolding and Safety & Access

The world of scaffolding, often viewed as rugged, demanding, and male-dominated, is gradually transforming, thanks to pioneering women like Misia Kardinasinska. Misia’s journey is not just a personal success story but a powerful testament to how perseverance, passion, and a willingness to break norms can open new doors. At Sandwell Scaffolding, Misia began her career as a receptionist—yet her path has led her to scaffolding heights she never imagined. Today, she’s redefining what it means to succeed in scaffolding, blazing a trail for other women in the field.

Misia’s Path from Office to Site: The Unexpected Start

Starting as a receptionist at just 18, Misia joined Sandwell Scaffolding with little expectation that she would ever venture onto a job site. Back then, she had no scaffolding experience, nor did she expect to develop a career in the contractual side of the business. In fact, just before beginning her scaffolding training, Misia had completed a digital marketing course, fully anticipating a career path in a more conventional office role.

Then, the unexpected happened. In late 2021, Sandwell Scaffolding experienced rapid growth due to high post-pandemic demand. The expansion created an opportunity for Misia to take on an entirely new role—a role that challenged her to step out from behind the desk and onto the construction site. By early 2022, she was embarking on training to become a trainee supervisor, ready to work hands-on in scaffolding and project management.

Overcoming Challenges and Breaking Stereotypes

Transitioning from office work to on-site scaffolding was no small feat. Misia’s journey hasn’t just been about learning the technical skills required for scaffolding—it’s been about proving herself in an environment where she doesn’t fit the traditional mould. Her training began with a series of courses: a Scaffold Awareness course, the Construction Operative Training Scheme (COTS), a Basic Scaffold Inspection course, and a Part 1 tube and fitting course. Each course presented unique challenges, from the physical demands of working with heavy materials to understanding complex safety protocols.

Misia acknowledges that not “looking like a stereotypical scaffolder” has been an ongoing challenge. In a field where women remain underrepresented, she has had to work harder to prove herself—not just to her peers, but to herself. Her commitment to mastering the skills, her determination to exceed expectations, and her resilience in the face of setbacks demonstrate that success in scaffolding isn’t about fitting a stereotype; it’s about having the grit and focus to rise to the demands of the job.

Training and Growth at Safety & Access

We were delighted to welcome Misia back to our Nottingham training facility, where her journey continued. Recently, she completed her CISRS Part 2 qualification, a crucial milestone in her career progression. This accomplishment further enhances her expertise and brings her closer to achieving her goals as a trainee supervisor. Completing Part 2 will equip her for greater responsibilities and leadership roles on-site.

The Impact of Misia’s Journey: Inspiration and Empowerment

Misia’s progress at Sandwell Scaffolding has been an inspiration not only within her company but within the entire scaffolding community. Her story highlights that, in today’s evolving construction industry, there is space for anyone with the dedication to make a mark. Women like Misia are essential to expanding the industry’s diversity, bringing fresh perspectives to safety, project management, and on-site problem-solving. Misia’s journey serves as a powerful example to other women considering careers in scaffolding—proof that with hard work, dedication, and a willingness to break boundaries, there are no limits to what they can achieve.

A Look Ahead: Misia’s Future in Scaffolding

With her recent qualifications, growing technical expertise, and resilient spirit, Misia’s career in scaffolding is just beginning. As she takes on more responsibilities and moves closer to supervisory roles, she embodies a new era for women in scaffolding—one where skill, passion, and perseverance matter more than physical stereotypes.

We are thrilled to continue supporting Misia’s journey and to celebrate her milestones along the way. Misia’s dedication to her career development, her ambition, and her commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset to her team at Sandwell Scaffolding and a role model to others in the industry. Her story is a reminder that with the right opportunities, scaffolding is an inclusive, dynamic field that is open to all who are ready to step up and rise to the challenge.