October 2025 Inspiration: Teresa Swift

BTTB Inspiration of the Month

TERESA SWIFT

Centre Manager, Chameleon School of Construction Ltd.

When it comes to guiding young people into the construction industry, few have demonstrated the same dedication and impact as Teresa. For more than two decades, she has made it her life’s work to open doors for new entrants, drawing on her deep family roots in construction and her passion for education to inspire the next generation.

As Centre Manager at Chameleon School of Construction, Teresa leads with compassion and vision. Every learner who enters the centre finds not just training in practical skills, but stability, encouragement and the belief that they can succeed.

Her remarkable contribution was recognised nationally when she was named in the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction (Educator category) by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

Reflecting on this achievement, Teresa said

:“I was shocked but delighted to be shortlisted. To me, it is not just about construction training, it is about giving young people stability, skills and the confidence to believe in themselves. The staff and learners at Chameleon are like a family, and I am proud that the work we do together has been recognised in this way.”

What makes Teresa exceptional is her commitment to those who face the greatest barriers. She meets challenges with guidance, encouragement and opportunity, equipping learners with the trade skills, resilience and self-belief to build their futures.

In recognising Teresa as BTTB’s Inspiration of the Month, we honour more than 20 years of dedication not only to construction training, but to people. Teresa’s story is a shining reminder that with passion and perseverance, lives can be transformed for the better.