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Building NXGEN: Kelly Ann McPhilbin on Confidence, Customer Care, and Creating Space for Women in Lifting

Kelly Ann McPhilbin, founder of NXGEN Lifting, shares her journey from crane hire sales to business ownership, reflecting on earning respect in the lifting industry, building an inclusive company, and why customer service and confidence are central to long-term success.

30 Second Takeaway Kelly Ann McPhilbin’s journey into the crane and lifting industry began in plant hire sales and evolved into business ownership driven by a passion for customer service and problem-solving. As the founder of NXGEN Lifting and the 2024 Businesswoman of the Year, Kelly Ann reflects on building an inclusive lifting company, earning respect in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and why there has never been a better time for women to enter construction. Finding Her Place in the Lifting Industry Kelly Ann McPhilbin entered the lifting world early in her career, starting out in plant hire sales before transitioning into crane hire sales. “The cranes and lifting industry has always sparked my interest,” she says. “Every project is unique, and every customer has a different challenge to overcome.” That constant variety combined with the technical and logistical problem-solving required kept her engaged and ultimately led her toward building something of her own. What Owning a Lifting Company Means For Kelly Ann, launching NXGEN Lifting was about alignment between values, service, and belief in the product. “I love that I can now fully believe in what I sell and the service I offer.” Having spent her career prioritising customer service, owning her own company allowed her to put those principles into action without compromise. “I have always been heavily focused on putting the customer first, and now I can finally do just that.” Earning Respect as a Woman in the Industry Kelly Ann acknowledges that being a woman in the crane and lifting industry can sometimes come with added scrutiny. “Occasionally, yes,” she says when asked about prejudice. “But as long as you do your homework and know what you’re talking about, you can gain a lot of respect sometimes even more.” That respect, she notes, has largely been her experience, reinforcing the idea that knowledge, preparation, and confidence still speak loudest on site and in the boardroom. Recognition Without Changing the Mission Being named Businesswoman of the Year in 2024  brought visibility but not a shift in values. “It hasn’t changed how I conduct business,” Kelly Ann explains, “but it has given me more self-confidence in my ability to lead a team and grow a business.” The recognition also opened new doors for exposure, benefiting both Kelly Ann personally and NXGEN Lifting as a growing brand. Equipment That Defines the Business When it comes to equipment, Kelly Ann has a clear favourite. “Definitely the C6 Spider Crane.” Available through NXGEN in both electric and diesel configurations, the C6 stands out for its performance and versatility. Before launching NXGEN, Kelly Ann spent significant time analysing the spider crane market. “For many reasons, I felt this was one of the best 3-tonne capacity spider cranes in the world.” Solving Complex Lifts Under Pressure One of the most challenging projects Kelly Ann McPhilbin was directly involved in took place at Nottingham University , installing a glass box structure under demanding conditions. “With limited headroom, restricted setup space, and nearly a tonne of overhead glass units to lift, it was a real challenge.” The solution combined a Hoeflon C10 spider crane  with a Jekko 523 spider crane  fitted with an adapted manipulator head allowing the team to complete the installation safely and successfully. Projects That Stand Out Among NXGEN’s most notable projects is work on the Anfield Stadium extension  for Liverpool Football Club. NXGEN was brought in to install three-tonne precast concrete stair units, navigating tight access and constrained working conditions. “These are the kinds of challenges where experience, planning, and teamwork really matter.” Pride in an Often Overlooked Role Kelly Ann believes crane and lifting companies play a critical and often underestimated role in construction. “Our work demands precision, composure under pressure, and strong problem-solving skills.” Every project brings new variables, and adapting to those challenges is part of what makes the industry so rewarding. “I literally love what I do.” Building an Inclusive Workplace at NXGEN Inclusivity at NXGEN Lifting is supported by structure as well as culture. The company has implemented a wide range of policies to ensure a safe working environment and support accreditation, including health and safety, environmental, lifting operations, manual handling, accident and incident reporting, fire safety, and hand tools policies. These frameworks help create a professional, accountable environment where teams can perform at their best. Advice for Women Entering the Industry Kelly Ann McPhilbin’s advice for women considering a career in construction or lifting is simple and enthusiastic. “Go for it!” She believes the industry is changing rapidly. “There has never been a better time for women to get into construction. The outdated gender stigma is becoming a thing of the past, and women have earned their valued seat at the business table.” Believing in Yourself First While Kelly Ann McPhilbin didn’t have female mentors in the crane and lifting sector, she credits strong leadership influences and her own determination. “I was always determined to build something and eventually start my own business.” Her closing advice resonates well beyond the industry. “Believe in yourself. Many won’t believe in you until you believe in you and that’s okay.” About NXGEN Lifting NXGEN Lifting is a specialist crane and lifting solutions provider delivering precision-led, customer-focused services across the UK. Founded with a commitment to safety, innovation, and exceptional service, NXGEN supports complex lifting projects in challenging environments, offering a modern fleet that includes advanced spider cranes and specialist lifting equipment. With a strong emphasis on planning, problem-solving, and collaboration, NXGEN Lifting works closely with clients to overcome site constraints and deliver safe, efficient outcomes. The company is committed to creating an inclusive workplace, supported by robust health, safety, and environmental policies, while maintaining the highest professional standards across every project. Website    https://www.nxgenlifting.co.uk

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