Women in Construction: Why Join the Workforce?

When you think of a construction site, you might envision hard hats, safety goggles, and heavy machinery. But who do you picture using these tools?

For many, the image is often a male-dominated crew.

However, this is changing rapidly.

The construction industry today is becoming more diverse, with women making significant strides. According to the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), women accounted for 1.5% of the total U.S. workforce in 2018.

This number is steadily increasing, and if you’re considering joining this field, here are six reasons why it’s a great choice.

1. Reduced Pay Gap

NAWIC research indicates that women in construction earn 99.1% of what their male counterparts make for the same job.

While 100% parity is the goal, this figure is still impressive compared to the broader workforce, where women earn only 81.1% of what men earn on average. If you’re looking for a field with strong earning potential, construction is a great option.

2. Abundant Job Opportunities

A major reason for women to enter the construction industry? There’s a high demand for skilled workers!

By 2023, experts anticipated a need for 1.5 million craft professionals across the U.S. Unfortunately, fewer young people are entering the field. According to the Construction Labor Market Analyzer (CLMA), in 2007, 12.5% of workers under 25 chose construction, but by 2018, that number dropped to just 9%.

Women can play a crucial role in filling this gap, helping to reduce delays and costs associated with labor shortages.

3. Strong Problem-Solving Skills

Construction work is both mentally and physically challenging. It requires not only physical strength but also critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

This is an area where women excel, bringing diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. Whether it’s on the job site, designing blueprints, or budgeting, women’s unique viewpoints can offer fresh insights and optimize project outcomes.

4. Inclusive Workplace Culture

Not long ago, women in construction were a rarity. Gender roles were more rigid, and the industry was less welcoming. However, that’s changing.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the number of women in construction increased by over 80% between 1985 and 2007. Although there was a decline during the economic downturn of 2007-2010, over 800,000 women now work in this sector, and the numbers are climbing.

Organizations like NAWIC, Power Up, Inc., and the National Association of Home Builders’ Professional Women in Building Council (PWB) are creating supportive networks and opportunities for women, making it easier to enter and thrive in the industry.

5. Scholarships to Support Your Education

If you’ve dreamed of attending a college, university, or trade school to deepen your construction knowledge, there are numerous scholarships available.

One notable example is the NAWIC Founder’s Scholarship, which awards over $100,000 annually to students in construction-related programs. Additionally, there are scholarships for those already enrolled in construction training, like the Construction Trades Scholarship.

Other options include:

• Association of Women Contractors Scholarship
• NAHB Professional Women in Building Strategies for Success Scholarship
• HOYA Foundation Scholarship
• Association for Women in Construction Scholarships

These resources can make pursuing a career in construction more affordable.

6. Wide Range of Career Paths

Not interested in framing houses or laying flooring? The construction sector offers many career options beyond traditional on-site roles.

Construction encompasses tasks related to developing, creating, and maintaining buildings of all types. This means there are numerous roles, such as construction managers, safety inspectors, and project coordinators.

There are also specialized trade positions that require specific training and offer competitive salaries in fields like:

• Electrician
• Carpenter
• Plumber
• HVAC Technician
• Welder
• Tile Mason

By honing your skills in these areas, you can secure a stable and rewarding career in a growing industry.