The construction industry has long been perceived as a male-dominated field, with fewer than 15% of the workforce made up of women. But as the sector faces a critical skills shortage and the demand for more sustainable building solutions grows, the need for greater gender diversity has never been clearer. Increasing the number of women working in construction is no longer just about fairness, it’s a strategic move to ensure the industry’s future success.
From breaking down stereotypes to creating new training pathways, efforts are being made to attract more women into construction jobs. Yet, with the recent closure of the Women into Construction initiative, the question remains: are we doing enough to support and retain women in construction? As fresh programmes emerge, the industry must focus on building a more inclusive workforce that values and nurtures diverse talent.
The Importance Of Increasing The Number Of Women In Construction
The construction industry is facing a critical moment, with skills shortages threatening to stall essential projects across the UK. In the construction industry, while there are around 2.7 million people in the sector, women make up less than 15% of the workforce. Yet, there’s evidence to suggest that change is on the horizon, with a survey showing that 46% of women aged 18-24 are now more likely to consider careers in construction.
The importance of attracting more women to working in construction extends far beyond filling vacancies. Women bring diverse skills and perspectives that can drive innovation and improve problem-solving. With sustainability becoming a major focus in the industry, it’s crucial to encourage more women into roles related to environmental design and green building solutions, as this could help tackle key challenges such as climate change.
Additionally, improving gender balance creates a more inclusive workplace, which not only boosts morale but also enhances productivity and creativity. The need for diversity is clear—without it, the construction sector risks missing out on valuable talent that could help build a more resilient, forward-thinking industry.
Women Into Construction Closes After 16 Years
The recent closure of Women into Construction has sent shockwaves through the industry. For 16 years, this pioneering organisation helped thousands of women secure construction jobs and training opportunities, playing a vital role in boosting female representation. The initiative, which began as part of the Olympic development in East London, more than doubled the number of women working in construction on major projects like Crossrail, HS2, and The Shard. Over its lifespan, Women into Construction supported 4,700 women, with 3,000 completing training and 1,300 securing employment.
The shutdown of such a significant programme raises concerns about how the construction industry will continue to support gender diversity. The initiative not only provided placements but also ensured that these opportunities led to real jobs, helping women build long-term careers in construction. With fewer women working in construction than ever before, losing Women into Construction creates a gap that other programmes must urgently fill to prevent a backslide in progress.
Now, with the industry struggling to find skilled workers, the need for new initiatives to encourage women in construction jobs is more crucial than ever. Supporting and expanding alternative programmes will be key to ensuring women continue to thrive in this traditionally male-dominated sector.
Schemes & Programmes For Getting More Women Working In Construction Jobs
While the closure of Women into Construction has left a significant gap, several new schemes and programmes are continuing to support women in construction jobs. One such initiative is the ConstructHER programme, launched by leading contractor GRAHAM to inspire female secondary school pupils in Glasgow to pursue careers in construction.
The programme aims to teach pupils about the sector and show the range of opportunities that are available in construction. Working with local schools, the ConstructHER programme aims “…to inspire our future generations to pursue a career in construction, which many may have not considered until now”.
Another promising initiative in Scotland is the Women into Home Building programme, backed by the Home Builders Federation and a range of developers like Bellway. This national initiative offers on-site work placements, allowing women to gain practical experience and develop their careers in construction management. Currently, just 4% of existing site managers in the industry are women, making programmes like these vital for encouraging more women to pursue careers in construction.
Additionally, Seddon Construction has made waves by welcoming a record number of female apprentices into its latest cohort, demonstrating that the industry is gradually becoming more inclusive. From bricklaying to plastering, this year’s intake involves a range of roles to bring more apprentices into its workforce.
Training plays a crucial role in building a skilled and adaptable workforce, especially in industries like construction where innovation and sustainability are key. For young people, targeted training programmes provide the practical skills and confidence needed to succeed in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
The Value Of Thorough Employee Training In The Construction Sector
In construction, comprehensive training is essential for maintaining safety and efficiency on-site. Whether workers are operating heavy machinery or using specialised tools, proper training helps ensure that equipment is handled safely and in compliance with industry regulations.
This reduces the risk of accidents and teaches workers how to identify and mitigate potential hazards before they become serious issues. Training programmes, particularly for machinery operation, are crucial for creating a workforce that is not only skilled but also aware of safety protocols, ensuring that everyone on-site can work confidently and safely.
However, training alone isn’t enough to address the broader challenges in the construction industry, especially when it comes to gender balance. A more balanced representation is vital, as studies show that diverse teams lead to better problem-solving and innovation. Encouraging more women into construction jobs, whether through apprenticeships, work placements, or targeted recruitment programmes, could help tackle the industry’s ongoing skills shortage while also creating a more inclusive workplace.
Building a gender-balanced workforce not only benefits women working in construction but also strengthens the entire industry, fostering a collaborative environment that draws on a wide range of skills and perspectives. By offering accessible and inclusive training opportunities, the construction industry can help bridge the gender gap, ensuring that women are not only entering the field but are also empowered to advance their careers.
The Future Of The Industry Needs More Women In Construction
The construction industry is at a pivotal moment, and bringing more women into construction jobs is not just about fairness, it’s essential for the sector’s future. With skills shortages growing and the demand for innovation rising, women working in construction bring fresh perspectives and valuable expertise.
As initiatives continue to develop, the industry must focus on fostering an inclusive environment and offering pathways for getting more women into construction. Only by embracing gender balance can the sector truly thrive, ensuring a resilient, skilled workforce ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
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