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This week is Women in Construction Week, and we want to celebrate by recognising the contributions of women in the construction industry, highlight their achievements, and advocate for greater inclusivity.
What historically was a male-dominated industry, the construction sector has seen a steady increase in female participation. However, barriers still exist and addressing them is crucial to fostering a more diverse workforce.
The Growth of Women in Construction
Over the years, the number of women entering the construction industry has increased significantly. More women are pursuing careers as project managers, engineers, architects and more, contributing their expertise to the industry. This shift is driven by greater awareness, increased opportunities, and initiatives aimed at promoting diversity in construction.
Barriers Women Face in Construction
Despite this progress, women in construction continue to face several challenges. Women make up around 14% of the workforce, this is a steady 4% increase throughout the last 10 years with 13% of construction firms being female-owned. But even though the amount of women in the construction landscape is increasing, there are still barriers that they can face.
One of the most significant barriers is gender bias and stereotypes that perceive construction as a male-only profession. Many women report encountering workplace discrimination, lack of mentorship, and limited advancement opportunities.
Breaking Barriers and Creating Opportunities
To encourage more women to join and thrive in the construction industry, organisations must implement strategies that promote inclusivity. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, diversity hiring policies, and targeted training programs help bridge the gender gap. Furthermore, companies that actively support work-life balance, provide equal pay, and address workplace discrimination contribute to a more welcoming environment for women.
Incentives like these are the reason as to why 37% of new construction workers are female- highlighting the impact these strategies can make.
The Future of Women in Construction
As awareness and efforts to increase gender diversity grow, the future looks promising for women in construction. Companies and industry leaders who embrace inclusion will not only benefit from a diverse workforce but also drive innovation and productivity. With continued advocacy, education, and policy improvements, the construction industry can become a truly equal space for everyone.
Are you wanting to break into the construction industry? We have a number of roles live on our website!
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