More than 70 girls from secondary schools across Huntingdonshire took part in this year’s Make Your Mark event at Alconbury Weald.
The experience was part of a construction and engineering taster day designed to introduce female students to careers in construction and development.
Phil Stittle, representing the Eastern Education Group, said: "It was amazing to showcase different areas of construction and engineering.
"All were very keen to ‘have a go’ and understand the potential of careers in bricklaying, welding and heavy plant operation.
"Some were absolute naturals at excavating large stones on the simulator – watch this space for a shift in women entering the construction sector."
Students from St Ivo Academy, St Peter’s School, Sawtry Secondary School, and Abbey College took part in the day.
The morning began with an interactive design workshop led by Laura Bradley, founder and director of Bradley Murphy Design.
Students worked together to imagine a welcoming and inclusive green space for the planned Runway Park.
Their ideas included adventure zones, sports areas, and lighting designs to improve safety.
The student-led concepts will help shape the design of the future park as plans move forward.
Amber Walker, careers office manager at St Peter’s School, said: "This is our fourth year attending Urban&Civic’s Make Your Mark event, and honestly, this year was the best yet.
"The addition of hands-on with activities such as bricklaying, virtual welding and even operating a digger simulation added another dimension to the day.
"It really opened their eyes, sparked curiosity and you could see their confidence growing by the minute."
Natalie Leigh-Brown, senior community development lead for Alconbury Weald, said: "We hope the Make Your Mark event encourages these Year 9 students to explore further education and apprenticeship pathways as they consider their future options."
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