Women In Construction Week: Q&A With Emma Worth

To mark Women In Construction Week 2026, we're proud to be shining a spotlight on the talented women helping to shape the future of Homes by Carlton.

First up is Emma Worth, our Development Manager, whose role plays a vital part in turning land into thriving communities.

Q. Can you tell us about your role at Homes by Carlton and what a typical day looks like?

As Development Manager at Homes by Carlton, I oversee projects from land acquisition through to commencement on site. My role is to coordinate the many moving parts that turn land into communities.

There isn’t really a “typical” day — and that’s what I love about it. One day I might be reviewing layouts and viability assessments, and the next I’m in meetings with landowners, planners or consultants to negotiate opportunities or move planning approvals forward. I also work closely with our internal teams to ensure timelines, costs and quality expectations are aligned.

It’s a mix of strategy, collaboration and problem-solving, which keeps it both challenging and rewarding.

Q. What has your career path looked like so far, and where there any pivotal moments along the way?

My career path has been shaped by a willingness to take on new challenges and step outside my comfort zone. Working closely with the Co-Founder, I was introduced to property development around eight years ago, and I haven’t looked back.

Having exposure to the different development stages helped me gain a strong understanding of how all the pieces connect. One pivotal moment was realising that development isn’t just about land and infrastructure, it’s about creating thriving communities where people want to build their lives.

That shift in perspective changed how I approach decisions. I started thinking not just about timelines and budgets, but about long-term community impact. Taking on leadership responsibilities was another defining step, as it pushed me to grow both technically and personally.

Q. What are the key skills you use most in your role?

Communication is by far one of the most important skills. Development requires constant coordination between landowners, land agents, solicitors, consultants, contractors and internal teams. Being able to clearly communicate expectations and navigate different perspectives is critical.

Problem-solving is another key skill. No project unfolds exactly as planned — whether it’s site conditions, approval timelines or servicing challenges — so adaptability and creative thinking are essential.

Organisation and strategic planning also play a big role. Managing multiple projects at different stages requires strong prioritisation and attention to detail.

l-r: Sarah Robson (Executive Director of Development at Karbon Homes) and Emma Worth.

Q. What's the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part is seeing a project come to life. Visiting a completed site and knowing you helped shape it from the early planning stages is incredibly fulfilling.

It’s also rewarding to be part of an industry that directly impacts families and communities. We don’t just build houses — we build homes. They’re where milestones happen, families grow and communities form.

Q. What has been a standout moment in your career so far?

A standout moment for me was successfully navigating a particularly complex approval process and seeing the project move from concept to construction. It required persistence, collaboration and a lot of coordination, but watching the first homes start to take shape made it all worthwhile.

I’m especially proud of projects where we’ve overcome challenges as a team. Development is never a solo effort, and being part of a collaborative environment where everyone works toward a shared goal is something I really value.

Q. What advice would you give to women considering a career in construction or housebuilding?

Don’t be intimidated by the industry’s reputation — there is absolutely a place for you here. Construction and development need diverse perspectives and strong leaders.

Be confident in your abilities, ask questions and never underestimate the value of preparation. Find mentors, build relationships and don’t be afraid to take on new opportunities. The industry is evolving, and there’s so much opportunity for women to shape its future.

Q. The theme for this year’s Women in Construction Week is “Level Up, Build Strong” — what does this mean to you?

Women in Construction Week is an opportunity to recognise the women who are contributing to and transforming this industry.

“Level Up, Build Strong” resonates with me because growth in construction isn’t just about buildings — it’s about people. Levelling up means continuing to develop our skills, taking on leadership roles and supporting one another.

Building strong means creating resilient communities, strong teams and a culture where women feel empowered to succeed. For me, it’s about progress — individually and collectively — and being proud of the role we play in shaping the future of our industry.

Her passion, leadership and commitment to building strong communities reflect the values at the heart of Homes by Carlton. We’re proud to have Emma helping shape our developments — and the future of our industry.