The construction industry is an integral part of any economy, building the infrastructure that underpins our daily lives. Yet, it remains one of the most male-dominated fields, with women making up only around 11% of the workforce globally (Global Construction Review, 2023). Despite significant progress in other industries, construction still lags in achieving gender diversity. This lack of representation reflects systemic barriers that prevent women from entering, thriving, and advancing in the sector.

This blog explores the challenges women face in construction, why these barriers persist, and what can be done to dismantle them.

1. Gender Stereotypes and Societal Expectations

Construction work has long been stereotyped as a “man’s job,” characterized by its physical demands and outdoor nature. Society often assumes that women lack the physical strength or resilience required, often ignoring advancements in technology that reduce the need for brute force (McKinsey & Company, 2022). These stereotypes start early, discouraging young girls from pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, which are pathways to construction careers. The lack of female role models in the industry perpetuates this cycle. For instance, only 14% of civil engineers in the UK are women (Engineering UK, 2022), demonstrating the gap in representation.

2. Workplace Culture and Discrimination

Women in construction often report feeling unwelcome in male-dominated environments. Workplace culture can sometimes be exclusionary, with women encountering overt sexism, subtle microaggressions, or a lack of support from colleagues and management.

For example:

• Sexist Attitudes: Women are frequently underestimated, with their skills and expertise questioned (Harvard Business Review, 2021).
• Isolation: Women may feel isolated as the only female in a team or on-site, limiting networking and mentorship opportunities.
• Harassment: According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), 60% of women in construction have reported experiencing some form of harassment (EEOC, 2021).

These challenges deter women from staying in the industry or advancing to leadership roles.

3. Lack of Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

Construction projects are notorious for long hours, demanding schedules, and remote sites. Women, particularly those juggling caregiving responsibilities, may find it difficult to meet these demands due to a lack of workplace flexibility. Unlike corporate sectors, where remote work has increased by 20% since 2020, construction remains rigid in its scheduling (Deloitte, 2023). The lack of maternity leave policies and childcare support further exacerbates this issue.

4. Limited Access to Training and Mentorship

Training and mentorship are essential for career development in any industry, and construction is no exception. However, women often have less access to these resources compared to their male counterparts.

• Skills Training: Programs targeting women in construction are underfunded. In the U.S., only 9% of apprentices in construction are women (U.S. Department of Labor, 2022).
• Mentorship Gaps: With only 3% of construction CEOs being women, mentorship opportunities remain scarce (Construction Dive, 2023).
• Networking Barriers: Industry events and networking groups are male-dominated, making it difficult for women to establish connections and find advocates.

5. Physical and Practical Barriers

While technological advancements have made many construction tasks less physically demanding, some aspects of the industry still pose challenges. For instance, construction sites often lack basic facilities tailored for women, such as appropriate restrooms or changing areas. Additionally, safety gear is frequently designed with men in mind. A 2020 survey found that 62% of female construction workers reported difficulties finding properly fitting protective equipment (National Association of Women in Construction, 2020).

6. Pay Disparities and Career Progression

The gender pay gap remains a pressing issue in construction. In the U.S., women in construction earn 95 cents for every dollar their male counterparts make, which is better than the national average but still unequal (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). Leadership roles are particularly male-dominated, and women face additional scrutiny when aiming for senior positions. A study by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) found that only 12% of construction managers are women (CIOB, 2023).

7. Why Diversity Matters in Construction

The barriers women face in construction aren’t just a social justice issue—they’re also bad for business. Diverse teams bring a wider range of perspectives, drive innovation, and improve decision-making. Studies show that companies with gender-diverse teams are 25% more likely to outperform their competitors (McKinsey & Company, 2023). In construction, this could translate into better project outcomes, enhanced client relationships, and a stronger industry reputation.

8. Solutions: Breaking Down Barriers

To address these challenges, the construction industry must take bold, proactive steps to create a more inclusive environment:

• Challenging Stereotypes: Campaigns that promote construction as a viable career for women, such as the UK’s Women into Construction initiative, can help dismantle gender biases (Women into Construction, 2023).
• Inclusive Recruitment: Employers should prioritize gender-diverse hiring practices and actively recruit women into both trade and leadership roles.
• Improved Workplace Culture: Initiatives to combat harassment, foster inclusion, and provide mentorship programs can make workplaces more welcoming for women.
• Flexible Working Policies: Offering remote work options, flexible hours, and on-site childcare facilities can help women balance work and family responsibilities.
• Equal Pay and Career Development: Companies must commit to closing the gender pay gap and providing equal opportunities for promotions and leadership development.

Conclusion

The barriers women face in construction are significant but not insurmountable. By addressing gender stereotypes, fostering an inclusive workplace culture, and providing targeted support, the industry can unlock its full potential. A more diverse construction workforce isn’t just fair—it’s essential for innovation and growth in an increasingly complex world. Women have the skills, creativity, and determination to thrive in construction, and it’s time for the industry to break down the walls holding them back.