By Samkele Mchunu
In recent years, there has been a notable uptick in the number of women venturing into the traditionally male-dominated field of construction. Protrade’s latest findings indicate a promising trend, with a 2% increase in young women embarking on construction apprenticeships in 2022-23, reaching 10% of the total 24,530 apprentices. While this signals progress, there are lingering barriers preventing more women from entering the industry.
Morgan Siddall’s report, “Are we Gen Z ready?”, highlights a prevailing sentiment among women and girls that construction remains a male-dominated realm, deterring 57% from considering it as a career option. Such perceptions are reinforced by statistics from the Women’s Engineering Society (WES), revealing that only 12.37% of engineers in the UK are female. These figures underscore the persistent gender gap within the construction sector, which lags far behind other industries in achieving gender parity.
Craig Sanders, joint managing director at Protrade, acknowledges the historical stigma surrounding women in construction but notes a shifting landscape. He observes that women are increasingly occupying roles beyond traditional boundaries, contributing not just to design but also to the physical construction process. As more women break into the industry, outdated stereotypes are gradually eroding, paving the way for greater inclusivity.
Sanders emphasizes the broader societal push for gender equality, with businesses increasingly prioritizing diversity in the workplace. He believes this cultural shift will inspire more women to pursue careers in construction, driving further progress towards gender balance.
Despite these positive developments, the construction sector still grapples with challenges in attracting talent. Analysis of apprenticeship uptake over the past five years reveals stagnant growth since 2018, with a decline in apprenticeship positions filled in 2022-23 compared to the previous year.
The importance of women’s participation in construction extends beyond mere numbers. It signifies a stride towards gender equality, challenging long-held biases and reshaping perceptions of what roles women can occupy in traditionally male-dominated fields. By fostering an environment that embraces diversity, the construction industry stands to benefit from a broader talent pool and fresh perspectives, ultimately driving innovation and growth.
As the industry continues its journey towards greater inclusivity, it must address remaining barriers and implement policies that promote equal opportunities for all. Only through collective effort can the construction sector realize its full potential as a beacon of diversity and gender equality in the workforce.
