The demand for highly-skilled construction labour — particularly those who are savvy and comfortable with technology — continues to grow. Women are stepping in, not only to fill gaps at all levels but to bring their unique, profit-boosting perspectives and skills. McKinsey & Company reports that gender-diverse companies are 25% more likely to achieve above-average profitability than their less diverse competitors, underscoring that women are critical to the success of the construction industry.
There is still work to be done to include more women in construction. To increase recruitment and improve retention, companies must acknowledge and remove gender bias from their work culture, develop training programs and local mentorship groups specific to women's needs, include more women in the hiring process, and encourage women to become role models for others. Additionally, schools and educational programs must highlight the value of construction and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) jobs for women so young girls can see the industry as a viable career path.
The current labour shortage in the industry presents an opportunity to hire even more women in construction jobs. Advancements in construction technology require a workforce ready to embrace new methods. Hiring and training women in IT departments can help address the staff shortage and improve companies' diversity. While challenges persist, diversity stands as a proven financial asset and plays a vital role in addressing the industry's labour shortage. Women in construction play an essential role in creating an equal and diverse workforce for all.
Although diverse representation in the construction industry is still a work in progress, a 2023 McKinsey & Co. report revealed a substantial financial advantage for companies where women make up more than 30% of the workforce. After a year of industry-wide growth in 2022, hiring more women is an optimal way to capitalise on that expansion. Despite this, Randstad found that 48% of women report a lack of female role models in their industry, and 89% have experienced perceived gender discrimination, highlighting the need for additional industry reform.
Organisations with greater diversity bring in more revenue compared to those that do not embrace it in the workforce. High-gender-diversity companies deliver better returns and have outperformed, on average, less diverse companies over the past five years. A report from McKinsey underscores that highly gender-diverse companies are 25% more likely to experience above-average profitability, reinforcing the value of diversity in the workplace.
In addition to financial success, companies that foster gender-diverse workplaces gain access to a wider talent pool. Women bring a wealth of skills, knowledge, and attributes pivotal for long-term success. Furthermore, diverse and inclusive work environments benefit from different perspectives, sparking creativity and innovation and helping businesses identify new opportunities while challenging traditional gender stereotypes.
Two of the biggest obstacles for women in construction are a lack of mentors and female role models. An absence of support within the sector can deter women from entering the industry. Actively celebrating female construction leaders can encourage more girls to pursue careers in construction, increasing the diversity of the hiring pool. Strong role models of successful women in STEM demonstrate that young girls can succeed within this industry. Ensuring women hold influential positions also means they can engage their male counterparts on gender equality.
The construction industry has seen an influx of women even before the COVID-19 pandemic. An ageing workforce and fewer young people entering the trades have led recruiters to look beyond the male pool to fill the work gap. Since 2016, a steady number of women have been entering the field. The industry is attracting a more diverse workforce by raising awareness of available opportunities, creating support networks, and designing tailored outreach. Women are finally able to visualise longevity for themselves in construction.
Support networks like WIC (Women in Construction Week) run annual awareness campaigns to highlight women's achievements in construction and encourage them to join support associations. A 2020 report from Randstad in the UK emphasised the importance of flexible working hours, equal pay, and equal growth opportunities for retaining women in the industry.
Cultural change within the industry is essential for real progress. Workers no longer have to fit into traditional construction moulds; rather, the industry must adapt to accommodate diverse workers. When diversity permeates every level and women can visualise themselves within the industry structure, real change occurs. Celebrating the unique perspectives and problem-solving skills of women fosters inclusive workplaces where everyone feels they belong.
If we want to see further equity in how the world around us is built, all sides must work together to create a working industry that benefits everyone. The door to the construction industry has been wedged ajar; now, it is up to everyone collectively to push it wide open.
By embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive culture, the construction industry can achieve unparalleled growth and innovation. Women are not just filling gaps; they are driving the future of construction, and their contributions are indispensable for building a more equitable and successful industry.
29 Aug 2024