In a field usually dominated by men, it’s crucial to recognize and support the increasing number of women entering construction jobs. Women in Construction Week celebrates women’s important role in the construction industry. It highlights their talents and contributions, reminding us of the diversity within the field. Let’s see how this event is changing construction and look at the amazing accomplishments of women in the industry.
Stay tuned to hear about one of busybusy’s employees and her construction experiences.
Women in Construction Week is March 3-9, 2024
Overview of Women in Construction Week
Celebrated during the first week of March, Women in Construction Week showcases the value women bring to a sector critical for societal development. The event aspires to inspire future young women to consider careers in construction and related fields. It also aims to put the spotlight on those who have triumphed in the face of industry challenges.
The Importance of Women in Construction
The construction industry has historically grappled with a significant gender gap. As more women enter the field, the workforce becomes more diverse and benefits from new ideas and perspectives. Women in Construction Week is a symbolic nod to the wave of change happening as more and more women choose to build their careers in construction.
Statistics on Women in Construction
The numbers are encouraging—albeit not without room for growth. According to the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), women comprise a growing percentage of the construction workforce, with key roles in project management, engineering, architecture, and on-site labor. However, there’s still work to be done as women only constitute about 10% of the construction workforce.
Challenges Faced by Women in the Industry
Despite the positive trend, women still face notable barriers in construction. From unconscious bias to a lack of female management, the industry continues to grapple with creating an inclusive environment. Women in Construction Week is a beacon for resolving these obstacles, ensuring that all are welcomed and supported within the sector.
National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)
NAWIC is a cornerstone of the Women in Construction Week movement, working tirelessly to advocate for women within the industry.
NAWIC and Its Mission
Founded in 1953, The National Association of Women in Construction is an organization dedicated to advancing women in the construction sector. Their mission is to enhance the success of women in the construction field through education, leadership training, networking, and support.
Achievements and Initiatives
NAWIC has been instrumental in providing resources and support for women in construction. With various scholarships, the association empowers women to join the industry. NAWIC has also fostered a mentorship program to connect women in construction with established professionals, contributing to a closer community and knowledge sharing.
Remarkable Women in the Construction Space
The construction industry is by no means devoid of talented and groundbreaking women. Here, we spotlight two extraordinary women who have made significant strides in their construction careers.
Profiles of Successful Women in Construction
- Shelby Wardell, Excavator (and current busybusy employee): Experienced construction equipment operator: excavators, skidsteers, loaders, and compaction rollers.
- Missy Scherber, Construction Business Owner: Co-owner for T. Scherber Demolition and Construction.
Shelby Wardell, Excavator
I worked in the construction industry for seven seasonal years, and a year and a half full-time! Working for an excavation company in Wyoming, I have witnessed the way women are treated in this industry. From comments like, “Oh, why isn’t she in the office? Shouldn’t she be doing payroll?” or showing up to a job site and hearing, “Did they really send her to dig this trench?”
Comments like this are inevitable to happen. Unfortunately, these have been some of the more appropriate comments I’ve heard.
How long do women have to prove themselves over and over before comments like this aren’t a thought?
Not all people or companies operate like that. On the flip side, I have heard wonderful things! “Wow, she is so good at running equipment, better than all of the hands you have hired,” and “Holy cow, I can’t believe she can run that!” I have gotten my picture taken when operating all kinds of equipment: excavators, skidsteers, loaders, and compaction rollers. After working for the same company for years, it wasn’t such a shock to see a girl doing all of the ‘manly’ things.
On one occasion, I was backfilling a house when the owner showed up. I noticed he watched for a couple of minutes and then took off. When he came back, he walked over to me and asked if I would wear his baby harness and hold his son!
Missy Scherber, Co-Owner – T. Scherber Demolition and Construction
In her interview with Business and Tech, Missy Scherber describes her experience.
She encountered her first woman in the field two years into her construction career. Noting that female leadership in construction was far and few between, she was determined to make a change. Later, she left a previous job to co-own T. Scherber Demolition and Construction with her husband. Since then, she has advocated for women in construction to go beyond and break stereotypes.
“If we don’t look at fifty percent of the population, which is women, as part of the solution, we’re not going to be in business in 10 years,” she said. “As a business owner, I am looking at being an advocate for women in construction from a practical sense.” -Missy Scherber.
The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity isn’t just about fairness but business sense. Diverse teams perform better, produce more innovative solutions, and are better equipped to tackle the industry’s complex challenges.
Strategies for Promoting Gender Equality
The journey toward gender equality in construction is versatile. It involves changing workplace norms, instituting fair hiring practices, offering robust support systems, and creating environments where women feel safe and welcome. Encouraging broader educational access and fostering a supportive professional network are just a few additional strategies that can elevate the role of women in construction.
Conclusion: The Future of Women in Construction
As we celebrate another Women in Construction Week, it’s crucial to reflect on the strides and path forward. Supporting and empowering women in the construction industry is no longer an option—it’s a mandate for progress and excellence. Let this week—and every week—serve as a reminder to champion gender diversity, not just in construction but in every industry where women’s voices deserve to be heard and valued.
Call to Action
Dedicate the coming weeks and months to implementing policies and practices that support women in construction. Whether through personal acknowledgment, championing women for leadership roles, or fostering an inclusive and safe work environment, your actions can contribute to a more robust and successful construction industry. Stand with women in construction and be a part of an industry that leads to equality and innovation.
