How Women Are Overcoming Adversity in Construction

Women in construction need to have strength in more ways than one. Yes, physical strength is required, but so is mental strength and clarity of purpose. In what was traditionally a male dominated industry, women are making strides and building more than residential and commercial buildings – we’re building a name for ourselves.

The truth is, when women find success in construction, everyone benefits. That’s because in order to build homes and commercial buildings with strong foundations, the construction industry itself must have a strong foundation. Construction is a fast-moving industry that is constantly shifting and changing. Women are playing a major role in increasing diversity and overcoming adversity in construction. Here’s how.

• Women are shifting the workforce in the construction industry by buying, building, and owning real estate
• Women are strapping on steel-toed boots and donning protective gear as they join the ranks of the construction work force
• Women are lifting as they climb. In other words, we are – or should be – opening doors for other women in construction
• Because construction is a global industry, women are making strides all over the world as new buildings take shape

As women take their place in construction, we are breaking down stereotypes, creating a diverse workforce, enabling diversity in ownership and upper management, and demanding and enforcing an end to sexual harassment in the workplace. Because of these shifts in the industry, women must continue to forge ahead. We must bolster and support each other, share best practices and tools of the trade, and discuss, support and champion women’s leadership initiatives and methodologies.

The future of the construction industry is strong – and that future must continue to build on the strengths of women. From carpentry to plumbing to electricity to masonry, women are continuing to play ever increasing roles that help construction projects flourish. It’s the only way to close the gender gap and insure that in the near future, no woman is the first woman in any aspect of construction.