Women in Construction: A Force to be Reckoned With

In construction, there is a gender imbalance. Out of all the people in this line of work, only about 20 out of every 100 are women. This includes painting and decorating — but things are beginning to change.
March 8, 2024 by
Women in Construction: A Force to be Reckoned With
SP Group Global Ltd

In an industry long dominated by men, women are forging a new path in construction. Although we’re far from our goals, we’re taking steps to create a fairer sector for future generations. 

This Women’s Month, let’s honour the remarkable contributions of females in trades. Join us as we explore how they overcome barriers and how society can support them. 

Breaking Barriers 

In construction, there is a gender imbalance. Out of all the people in this line of work, only about 20 out of every 100 are women. This includes painting and decorating — but things are beginning to change. 

There’s been a noticeable surge in the inclusion of women within this field in recent years. Study shows that more and more people are interested in having females working in trades. Here’s a summary of the findings to learn more. (Link to our ‘Rising Demand for Women in Tradeswomen in Painting and Decorating’ blog.) 

But despite this progress, problems persist, hindering women from fully choosing this career. Gender gaps remain a prevalent issue, especially in terms of opportunities and pay.  

Another big hurdle is there aren’t enough training programs made just for them. Women may find themselves at a disadvantage without enough support and resources. Societal perceptions surrounding gender roles within the field can also dissuade them. This can make think construction for females isn’t a suitable job. 

Addressing these barriers requires a concentrated effort from both industry and society. We can do this by making fair rules and creating friendly workspaces. Moreover, supporting programs that help women to thrive in this line of job. This will make construction better by bringing in new ideas and skills. 

Changing Perspectives 

Thankfully, societal perceptions regarding gender roles have shifted, which is good. More women are now considering jobs like construction, renovation, and decorating. This change stems from a growing recognition of women’s capabilities and contributions beyond traditional stereotypes.  

Companies are also starting to make efforts to promote diversity in construction. They do so not just because society is changing but also because it’s smart for business. They want to hire more women because they bring different ideas and skills. This, in turn, provides ladies with more opportunities in the construction industry. 

The rise of advocacy groups, such as NAWIC, further amplifies this momentum. These platforms offer mentorship and networking opportunities. Most importantly, resources to empower women at all stages of their construction careers. 

As we keep breaking stereotypes and being inclusive, it’s important to see how much women matter in shaping construction’s future. Not only does diversity make new ideas, but it also creates a more dynamic workforce. This ultimately benefits the construction industry. 


Celebrating Tradeswomen 

Let’s take a moment to showcase the talent and creativity of women in the construction industry. Carpenters, electricians, plumbers, painters, and decorators, to name a few. All these skilled workers bring new ideas and know-how to every job they do. Their contributions deserve recognition and appreciation. Whether on the frontlines or behind the scenes, women play a vital role in shaping the industry’s future. 

Are you part of the growing number of women in construction? Join us in celebrating their success during Women’s Month this March! For inquiries, contact our team at hello@s-pgroup.com or call +44 28 9442 8611.