The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows only 10.9% of all people working in the construction industry are women, and women account for only one out of every 100 employees in the field, according to www.forconstructionpros.com. As Women in Construction Week approaches and the construction industry continues to struggle with a long-term labor shortage, attracting more women to the industry could be key.
Following are some tips that could change the way women view careers in construction and help attract them to the industry.
- Money talks. Although women lag in earnings in all industries, the gender pay gap is much smaller in the construction industry. In 2018, women working full-time in construction and extraction occupations made $785 per week at the median compared with $834 for men. Although women overall earn 81 cents for every dollar earned by a man, women in construction make 94 cents for every dollar earned by a man. The construction industry offers women well-paid jobs that do not require a college degree; job security; competitive benefits; paid vacation and the satisfaction of building something that contributes to their communities.
- Highlight the training and advancement opportunities available. There can be a psychological barrier for women to enter a job they believe is a man’s job. But companies just need to train the right people, regardless of gender. Many women do not realize construction careers are accessible through apprenticeships, which provide paid on-the-job learning combined with postsecondary classroom instruction. Women-focused pre-apprenticeship programs have succeeded in increasing women’s access and success in construction careers.
- Change perceptions and advocate for equality. There are a wide range of roles in the construction industry, and women must be encouraged to seek these roles and given the opportunity to advance. Children are being exposed to potential careers at a young age, and the industry should tailor its message to young girls—not just boys—and change outdated perceptions. Also, when women enter construction careers, company leadership must ensure they are being respected. For example, be sure there are female personal protective equipment options that include work clothing that fits properly and allows women to do their jobs comfortably and safely.
It is important for women to see the construction trades as a viable career path, and normalizing it can help the industry reach that goal.
