How Are Women Shaping Construction?

Women in Construction Week honors the contributions of women in the industry and serves as a catalyst for positive change by inspiring future generations. The evolution of women in construction reflects a gradual change from a traditionally male-dominated industry to one that is becoming more inclusive with increasing opportunities and recognition. Today, women play crucial roles in various aspects of construction, from design and engineering to project management and leadership. 

According to the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), there are over one million construction women working today.  

• 44% of construction women are in professional or management roles.  

• 28% of construction women are in sales or office roles.  

• 21% of construction women are in service-related roles.  

• 6% of construction women are in production, transportation or material moving roles.  

• 1% of construction women are in natural resource, maintenance and construction trade roles.  

These specific examples highlight the diverse and impactful contributions of women across various roles in the construction industry, demonstrating their influence in shaping the future of construction:  

Building Information Modeling (BIM): 

Dr. Jozette Chack-On Lai, an architect and researcher, has contributed significantly to BIM and computational design. Her work focuses on creating tools that enhance collaboration and design efficiency in construction projects. 

Digital Twins and Smart Construction: 

Dr. Burcin Becerik-Gerber, a professor at the University of Southern California, focuses on smart buildings and construction informatics. Her research includes the development of digital twin technologies for construction project monitoring and management. 

Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI): 

Afsaneh Doryab, an assistant professor at Carnegie Mellon University, focuses on human-AI collaboration in construction. Her research explores how AI technologies can enhance decision-making processes in construction management. 

The construction industry is facing a skills shortage with over 500,000 workers needed to fill the gap in the construction industry. Opening the industry to a larger talent pool can address workforce challenges and contribute to sustained growth.  

As construction projects become more complex, the demand for skilled professionals is on the rise. Encouraging women to enter the field ensures a larger and more qualified workforce to meet the evolving needs of the industry. 

By leveraging the diverse skills, perspectives and talents of both men and women, the construction sector can drive innovation and meet the evolving needs of society.  

Celebrating Women in Construction Week is a fantastic opportunity for Kahua to highlight the valuable contributions of the women in our workforce. Throughout the week, we will feature spotlights on talented female employees working in this fulfilling field that highlight their achievements, roles and experiences within the industry. 

Join the Conversation 

In honor of this week, Kahua has planned a series of blogs to acknowledge the incredible women who contribute to our success. Please visit our blog site all week! 

Engage with us by sharing your thoughts, experiences and support for women in the construction industry: Facebook  Twitter  Instagram  LinkedIn