In 2024, about 1 in 7 jobs has gone to women. With March 2–8 being dedicated to Women in Construction Week (WIC), now is the time to recognize and remove the barriers that exist for hiring more women and also learn how companies can promote the industry.
The challenges of working in a male-dominated industry are many.
Companies need to address these issues if they want to hire and retain female workers.
The construction industry is facing a workforce shortage, and young people are increasingly steering away from it. Surveys indicate that 63% of young adults wouldn’t consider a career in construction, often citing concerns about physical demands and job difficulty. However, the industry offers a wide range of opportunities, and women can play a crucial role in filling these gaps. Developing and implementing initiatives that support women in construction is an excellent way to showcase the industry and what it has to offer.
One of the most effective ways to encourage more young women to explore construction careers is by volunteering at local schools. Participate in career fairs and talk to students about the diverse career paths available within the industry. Highlight success stories of women in construction and show how they have built rewarding careers.
Many people associate construction with physically demanding labor, but the industry offers much more than that. From project management to safety oversight and leadership roles, there are plenty of opportunities that don’t require manual labor. Organizing workshops can give young women a chance to develop practical industry skills and understand the broad range of career paths available to them.
Seeing is believing, and one of the best ways to inspire future female construction workers is by offering tours of your company. Showcase the women already working in various construction roles to demonstrate firsthand that it’s an accessible and welcoming field. Consider making these tours a regular part of WIC and extending them throughout the year to maximize impact.
Attracting more women to the construction industry starts with inclusive hiring practices. Ensure job descriptions use gender-neutral language by replacing terms like “he” or “she” with “the candidate” or “the applicant.” Avoid language that leans heavily masculine (e.g., “competitive” or “driven”) or overly feminine (e.g., “trustworthy” or “flexible”), as this can unconsciously influence who applies.
Encouraging women in construction to build professional networks can help them grow in their careers. Consider sponsoring memberships for your female employees in organizations such as NAWIC. These groups provide mentorship, training, and support to help women advance in the industry.
By taking these steps, you can help break down barriers and create a more inclusive, diverse, and thriving construction workforce. (Find events here: Women in Construction Week events.)