The construction industry is the backbone of modern society, shaping the world around us through infrastructure, innovation, and relentless hard work. But behind the scaffolding, steel, and concrete are the people who make it happen—individuals who dedicate their lives to building something bigger than themselves. This spotlight piece is directly from Michael O’Rourke, founder of the Saint Ambassador Foundation, a movement designed to support, uplift, and celebrate those within the industry while addressing some of its most pressing challenges.

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A Past of Construction

For Michael O’Rourke, construction isn’t just an industry—it’s a family legacy. Growing up with a father, Stephen O’Rourke, who successfully ran multiple firms ranging from general construction to commercial facility management, Michael was immersed in the trade from an early age, whether that was loading skips or darting around the office.

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“My dad is a lot of the reason why I am here today,” Michael reflects. “Not just in the industry but in the way I approach business and people. He was always business-driven but never at the expense of those around him. That philosophy has shaped everything I do. The construction industry is a community that I hold closely to my heart.”

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Michael’s journey has seen him build a successful marketing and business development agency, Saint Global that connects him with key figures in the industry daily. Through these conversations, he has gained invaluable insight into the challenges that both seasoned professionals and newcomers face, and he has made it his mission to do something about it.

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Challenges in the Construction Industry

While construction is an industry filled with opportunity, it is also plagued by systemic issues that have persisted for years. A declining labour pool, a lack of structured training for new entrants, gender inequality, and mental health struggles are just a few of the obstacles that demand urgent attention.

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The Workforce Crisis

One of the most significant challenges facing the industry today is the shortage of skilled labour. Fewer young people are entering construction, and with many experienced professionals retiring, the industry faces a growing skills gap.

“We have a huge issue with how people enter the industry,” Michael explains. “There’s confusion about the next step, a lack of structured guidance, and minimal support for apprentices or trainees. Year after year, we see fewer people choosing construction as a career, and that’s something we need to address head-on.”

The Saint Ambassador Foundation aims to bridge this gap by offering mentorship, support networks, and resources for apprentices and newcomers. The goal is not just to bring people into the industry but to provide them with the tools and knowledge to thrive and build fulfilling careers.

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Women in Construction

Historically, construction has been a male-dominated field. But change is happening—albeit slowly. More women are entering the industry, challenging stereotypes and proving that construction is a career for anyone, regardless of gender.

“Women in construction are finally getting some of the recognition they deserve, but it’s been a long battle,” Michael says. “We’ve come a long way since the days of Ladies' Bridge (Waterloo Bridge in London) yet their contributions were overlooked for decades.”

The Saint Ambassador Foundation is committed to supporting and amplifying the voices of women in construction, showcasing their achievements, and encouraging the next generation of female professionals to break barriers within the industry.

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Mental Health: A Silent Crisis

Perhaps one of the most overlooked yet urgent challenges within the construction industry is mental health. With harsh working conditions, long hours, financial pressures, and a culture that often discourages vulnerability, construction workers face one of the highest suicide rates of any profession.

“Mental health in construction is at an all-time low,” Michael states. “There’s a serious lack of support, and many workers feel like they have nowhere to turn. It’s something we have to talk about more and actively work to improve.”

Through the Saint Ambassador Foundation, Michael aims to foster a more open and supportive environment where workers can seek help without stigma. The foundation is working towards partnerships with mental health organisations such as Lighthouse, Mates in Mind in order to provide workshops and initiatives to create safer, healthier workplaces.

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Celebrating the Unsung Heroes of Construction

One of the biggest motivators behind the Saint Ambassador Foundation is recognising and celebrating the hardworking individuals who often go unnoticed.

“There are countless unsung heroes in construction—people who show up every day, put in the work, and hold incredible stories of achievement, yet they rarely get the recognition they deserve,” Michael says.

Through storytelling, interviews, and media campaigns, the foundation aims to bring these individuals into the spotlight, showcasing their contributions and inspiring others.

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The Vision for Saint Ambassador?

The Saint Ambassador Foundation is more than just a support network—it’s a movement dedicated to transforming the construction industry from the inside out. The foundation is built on core pillars:

• Supporting apprentices and the next generation – Providing guidance, mentorship, and resources to help newcomers navigate the industry successfully.
• Advocating for inclusivity – Championing women in construction and ensuring the industry is welcoming to all.
• Prioritising mental health – Offering support systems and raising awareness about the importance of mental well-being in construction.
• Recognising the industry's hidden figures – Highlighting the incredible work of individuals who make construction what it is today.
• Building a stronger, more connected community – Encouraging collaboration and support among workers, business owners, and stakeholders.

“At the end of the day, we are all human,” Michael says. “We need to look out for each other, whether it’s offering a helping hand to an apprentice, supporting a colleague going through a tough time, or simply acknowledging the hard work people put in. That’s what Saint Ambassador is all about.”

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Beyond Construction: A Passion for Nature and Adventure

While Michael’s dedication to the construction industry is undeniable, he also finds balance in life by stepping away from the hustle and immersing himself in nature. In his spare time, he enjoys exploring the outdoors, learning about English wildlife, and seeking new adventures in the mountains and countryside.

“Being in nature is my way of resetting,” Michael shares. “There’s something grounding about hiking up a peak, spotting a deer, knowledge of plants or simply just taking in the silence of the outdoors. It gives me perspective and allows me to come back to work with a fresh mind.”

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Final Thoughts

Michael O’Rourke’s journey from growing up in a construction-focused household to becoming a champion for the industry is a testament to his passion and commitment. Through the Saint Ambassador Foundation, he is not only giving back to the industry that shaped him but actively working to improve it for future generations.

As construction continues to evolve, initiatives like Saint Ambassador will play a crucial role in shaping its future—making it more inclusive, supportive, and sustainable.

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