Women in the construction business demonstrate gender equality and diversity. Nevertheless, what is it like to work in a male-dominated environment? Learn more about the story of these women working in the construction sector.
Rise of Women in Construction
Based on a report published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2023, women make up 10.8 % of the workforce in the construction industry in the United States. However, although they make up 47% of all employed people, women in the construction industry only make up 1.25% of the entire workforce.
The imbalance can be attributed to a number of issues, such as unconscious gender bias, insufficient opportunities for training, and unfavorable perceptions of women in the construction industry.
Moreover, despite the obstacles standing in their way, women continue to progress in a field dominated by men. Since 2010, women comprised only 8.9% of the labor force; the women-in-construction workforce in the United States has increased by 2%.
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Stories and Advice of Different Women Working in the Construction Sector
(Photo : Pexels/Kindel Media )
Based on the statements made by Becci Taylor, Director at Arup, the gender balance in the industry has significantly improved over the course of the past 20 years. While it is clear that the business continues to lose more women in the middle of their careers than it does male colleagues, they are beginning to see a more accurate representation of women in positions of authority achieved. Despite this, she continues to attend meetings that are primarily male-dominated.
Becci believes that one of the most significant opportunities, often overlooked, is teaching their students about professions in construction and sustainability before they choose their subjects. This would help address the issue and further mobilize change. She noted that women should leverage their uniqueness since it makes them stand out from the crowd.
Also, women reportedly live in a complicated world that requires them to bring together new things to find solutions to society's problems.
As per Nadia Connabeer Mitchell, who serves as the Assistant Site Manager at the Barratt David Wilson Homes Treledan development in Saltash, Cornwall, various individuals are occasionally taken aback when they observe her constructing homes on-site at the Treledan development.
It is because of her experience and the fact that she has been forthright and honest with her team that she has earned their respect. As she pointed out, women should not allow anyone to come in their way.
Always remember to ask questions and remember that there are many other routes to get a job in the construction industry. In addition, Emma Nicholson, primary sustainability project manager at Pick Everard, noted that women must work towards obtaining equitable employment opportunities, leadership positions, and decision-making at all levels. Mentoring is an excellent beginning point for attaining this goal.
For the past decade, she reportedly has mentored women in the sector and believes in this process as a strategy to achieve continual progress. Thus, it is wonderful to have the opportunity to open new doors for people interested in entering this field, and women should all be working toward making this industry a more welcoming and inclusive place.
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