Women in Construction: Inspiring a New Generation

It’s no secret that the construction industry has been a male dominated industry for a long time, but thanks to some pioneering and trailblazing women, that reputation is changing and the benefits for doing so are being felt industry wide.

“Things have changed,” says Sarah Jury, Senior Project Leader at Clarke Hopkins Clarke. “My first site meeting was a room full of men, but now my site meetings have half men, half women. It’s come a long way.”

“We’re seeing more and more initiatives for women to progress into leadership roles, and importantly, a higher value placed on recruitment and retention,” says Elise Trinh of Krneta.

A sentiment repeated by Laura Mason, Design Manager at Built Environs. “I’ve definitely noticed an increase in women working in the construction industry; not only in entry level positions, but also in leadership roles, which is great to see.”

Until recently the lack of successful role models was a major contributor to the lack of women and diversity in the field, but as the baton gets passed and newer female employees are seeing what is possible, the scene is changing.

There is some added motivation. According to a recent study, the lack of diversity is costing the Australian economy almost $8 billion every year, due to workplace injury, mental illness and long hours. And so, while it is getting better and the firms and businesses that are taking the lead are to be congratulated for their efforts, women in construction only account for 13% of the industry workforce.

“Construction is all about problem solving,” says Laura, “and there is never just one way to solve the problem. Diversity brings different perspectives, new ideas and unique solutions.”

And it is changing. Of the women we spoke to, all have said that mentors and other female leaders have played a huge part in their decision to enter the industry. “Having role models and mentors really helped my career,” says Laura, “and I would strongly recommend to all women that they find a strong mentor.”

Not bound to the standard, yet accepted male dominated approaches, women are bringing fresh methodologies and ideas to the sector. “It’s not without its challenges and it can be quite difficult to be taken seriously,” says Nicola Johnson of Krneta, “In the past, I’ve been talked over and been told many times to not bother assisting or that I don’t know what I’m talking about, but the big change in representation of women in the field – seeing their successes and achievements - has influenced more women to choose construction. Each year I see [how attitudes are changing] and it’s amazing to see.”

Making sure these old school attitudes are a thing of the past and eliminating gender adversity will go a long way to making the construction industry a welcoming place for everyone, ultimately benefiting us all with better projects, healthier workforces and improved cost efficiencies.

The National Association for Women in Construction (NAWIC) has set a goal for women to make up 25% of the industry by 2025, essentially doubling the current numbers. Making women (and all for that matter) feel welcome, with competitive packages, fairness and equality isn’t just a good idea, or the right thing to do as we step into the future, but an essential step for the industry as it continues to grow and needs new employees to sustain it.

“A diverse work culture allows employees to feel more open, to speak up and contribute ideas. It can lead to significantly more enriched and refined projects,” says Nicola.

That the industry is now seen as an attractive and viable career option for women is a great start and as we develop and adjust, we will need to proactively recruit women making sure the industry is a safe and happy workplace for all.

“This can apply to all industries, not just construction,” says Elise, “diversity and inclusivity can lead to increased productivity and improved confidence, allowing employees to feel respected and valued in the workplace.”