The construction industry is growing fast, thanks to major federal initiatives like the CHIPS and Science Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the Inflation Reduction Act. These programs are expected to create millions of new jobs, pushing job openings in construction to near-record levels. In 2023, construction made up about 4.3% of the U.S. economy, an important force in supporting other industries.
However, the industry is still mostly dominated by men. According to a 2023 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), women make up just 10.8%of the construction workforce. The numbers are even lower in skilled trades like electricians and carpenters, where only 4% of workers are women. This gap exists even though women make up 47% of all employed people in the U.S. Factors like gender bias, limited training opportunities, and stereotypes about women in construction contribute to this imbalance.
Construction jobs often offer good pay without needing a college degree, but women in the industry still earn less than men. In 2022, women in construction earned only 82% of what men earned. Despite these challenges, the number of women in construction has been slowly increasing. Since 2010, the percentage of women in the industry has grown from 8.9% to 10.8%.
With this growth, companies are looking to bring more women into the field. To help address this, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Million Women in Construction Initiative in October 2022. This initiative aims to double the number of women in construction over the next decade, creating more opportunities for women in this expanding industry.
UPDATED AT: August 13, 2024
In October 2022, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced an ambitious goal to "double the number of women in construction over the next decade." This initiative, known as the Million Women in Construction Initiative, was launched to address the ongoing workforce shortage in the construction industry and to promote gender equality.
The Department of Commerce is working closely with other federal agencies to roll out this initiative, with a particular focus on projects funded by the CHIPS Act.
Beyond just boosting numbers, the initiative also seeks to create a more inclusive workforce. This includes actively recruiting women, people of color, and individuals from underserved communities to ensure that the benefits of the growing construction industry are shared more equitably.
Several states are leveraging new federal infrastructure investments to support this initiative by creating workforce training programs specifically for women and minorities. For example, California has allocated $25 million for pre-apprenticeship programs that target these groups, providing them with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in construction careers.
This is just one example of how states are taking action to build a more diverse and inclusive workforce as part of the broader Million Women in Construction Initiative.
Increasing female participation in construction requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both entry barriers and ongoing support. Below are a few key strategies to increase female participation in construction.
One of the key strategies for increasing female participation in construction is through targeted workforce development and training programs.
The CHIPS Women in Construction Framework is one example of this approach. Companies like Intel and Samsung have adopted this framework, which includes commitments to gender diversity and equity in CHIPS-funded projects.
Additionally, successful pre-apprenticeship programs are crucial in preparing women for careers in construction. For instance, Oregon Tradeswomen has been a leader in this area, having placed over 1,000 women in construction jobs since 2009. These programs provide women with the skills and support needed to thrive in the industry.
To create a more welcoming environment for women in construction, it's essential to address gender bias within the industry.
Mentorship programs like Illinois’ “MentorHER” initiative play an important role in this effort. This program pairs experienced female workers with newcomers, offering guidance, support, and a sense of community.
In addition, companies are revising their hiring practices to eliminate gender bias. For example, Skanska, a major construction company, has committed to interviewing at least one female candidate for every open position, ensuring that women have a fair chance at securing jobs.
Raising awareness and generating interest in construction careers among young women is another tactic.
Partnerships with educational institutions are key to this effort. The Build Like a Girl initiative is a standout example, introducing middle and high school girls to construction careers through hands-on workshops. These programs help to break down stereotypes and show young women that construction is a viable and rewarding career path.
By reaching out to girls early in their education, these initiatives aim to inspire the next generation of women to enter the construction industry.
One of the most significant challenges women face in the construction industry is gender discrimination. A report by Randstad found that 89% of women in construction have experienced perceived gender discrimination. Additionally, 48% of women report a lack of female role models, making it difficult to see a clear path forward in their careers.
Traditional workplace cultures in construction, often male-dominated and resistant to change, further exacerbate these issues, creating significant barriers to women’s participation and advancement in the industry.
Retention is another major challenge. Many women in construction struggle with work-life balance, which can lead to higher turnover rates. Studies have shown that 70% of women employed in engineering, a field closely related to construction, leave the profession, compared with just 35% of men. This trend is similar in construction, where long hours and demanding physical labor can make it difficult to balance professional and personal responsibilities.
Furthermore, women in construction are less likely to be promoted to supervisory roles, with only 8% of construction managers being women. This lack of advancement opportunities can discourage women from staying in the industry long-term.
Safety and equipment pose additional barriers for women in construction. Much of the safety gear and equipment is traditionally designed for men, leading to discomfort and increased injury risk for women.
For example, standard-issue work boots and harnesses often do not fit properly, making it harder for women to perform their duties safely. However, some companies are beginning to address this issue by offering gender-specific safety gear, such as smaller-sized work boots and adjustable harnesses. These changes are crucial in ensuring that women can work comfortably and safely on construction sites.
Embracing gender diversity in the construction industry is not just about equality—it's also a smart business strategy with substantial economic benefits.
Gender diversity in the workforce is also a significant driver of economic success.
A McKinsey & Co. report highlights that companies with more than 30% female representation in their workforce are, on average, 25% more profitable than their peers.
This intersection between gender diversity and profitability shows the value of creating a more inclusive workforce. Diverse teams bring a broader range of perspectives, which can lead to more innovative solutions, better decision-making, and improved overall performance.
Turner Construction, one of the largest construction companies in the U.S., serves as a powerful example of the benefits of gender diversity.
For example, the Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality 2024 celebrated companies that are making gender equality a priority in their business, such as Aecom and Jacobs Solutions. These companies illustrate how gender diversity can lead to tangible improvements in business operations and employee satisfaction.
The positive impact of gender diversity isn't limited to large corporations; small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have also seen substantial business growth by increasing female representation. By embracing gender diversity, businesses of all sizes can unlock new opportunities for success in the construction industry.
The construction industry is on the cusp of significant transformation, driven by advancements in technology like robotics and modular construction. These developments are opening new doors for women, particularly in roles related to IT and project management.
By embracing these opportunities, the construction sector can not only address its workforce shortages but also benefit from the unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches that women bring to the table.
Moreover, the Million Women in Construction Initiative is set to have a long-term impact on the industry. By doubling the number of women in construction by 2032, this initiative could lead to increased innovation, improved project outcomes, and a more sustainable workforce. A more diverse and inclusive industry will be better equipped to meet the challenges of the future, driving growth and success for years to come.
For the construction industry to fully realize these opportunities, leadership must take proactive steps in supporting gender diversity. This includes adopting inclusive hiring practices that actively seek out and encourage female candidates, providing mentorship programs that help women advance in their careers, and ensuring that workplaces are safe and supportive for women.
Industry leaders who champion these initiatives will not only contribute to a more equitable workforce but also position their companies for greater success in an increasingly competitive market. By prioritizing gender diversity now, construction leaders can help shape a more prosperous future for the industry.
Closing the gender gap in the construction industry is not just a matter of fairness; it’s a strategic necessity that brings numerous benefits to the industry.
From increased profitability to enhanced innovation, the inclusion of women in construction roles strengthens the sector as a whole. Diverse teams are more creative, better at problem-solving, and more effective in delivering successful projects. By addressing the gender imbalance, the construction industry can unlock its full potential and drive sustainable growth.
By embracing diversity, the construction industry can build not only better structures but also a stronger, more resilient workforce for the future.