What images come to mind when you think of construction? Probably men with helmets and tool belts. The construction industry has traditionally been dominated by men, and women make up only a small percentage of the workforce. But as the demand for STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) skills continues to grow, there is an incentive to get more women interested in careers in construction. With the help of (government) agencies and progressive companies, women are breaking gender stereotypes and making their mark in the world of STEM, especially in the construction industry.
In this blog post, we explore the challenges women face in this field, the efforts being made to attract more women to STEM careers in construction, as well as hear from inspiring women at Trimble who have successfully navigated their way through this industry.
Challenges for women in STEM careers in construction
The challenges facing women in STEM careers in construction are multifaceted and require a comprehensive approach. A key challenge is the lack of female role models and mentors in the industry. Without representation at the highest levels, it can be difficult for women to imagine a future in construction. In addition, work cultures and prejudices can create a hostile or unfriendly environment for women, leading to feelings of isolation and limited advancement opportunities. In turn, another challenge is the physical demands of the industry, which can be daunting for some women.
By recognizing these challenges and actively working to overcome them, the industry can become more inclusive and open doors for women to excel in STEM careers in construction.
Where are those women in construction?
When it comes to STEM careers, women in the technical sector are severely underrepresented, and the construction industry is no exception. Today there are 27,193 women working in construction as employees, workers or self-employed. This is a 4 percent increase from the previous year, and over the past five years, the number of women working in the construction and installation sector has increased significantly, according to an analysis by construction federation Embuild. Although the increase is more prominent among female white-collar workers, the overall representation of women in the sector remains limited at 1.2 percent.
