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Non-Hands-On Roles for Women in Construction

Updated: Apr 7

The construction industry offers a diverse range of career opportunities beyond hands-on roles, many of which are increasingly being filled by women. As of 2023, women represent approximately 10.8% of the construction workforce, totaling around 1.3 million professionals.

National Association of Home Builders


Non-Hands-On Roles for Women in Construction

Women are making significant strides in various non-manual positions within the construction sector, including:

  • Management and Professional Roles: Approximately 40% of women in construction hold management and office positions, such as project managers, estimators, and safety inspectors.

    Labor Finders


  • Construction Management: Women constitute about 7.7% of construction managers, overseeing project planning, coordination, and execution.

    IWPR


  • Architecture and Engineering: Many women are contributing as architects and engineers, focusing on the design and structural aspects of construction projects.

Job Outlook and Industry Trends

The construction industry is experiencing significant growth, leading to a surge in demand for skilled professionals:

  • Employment Growth: Overall employment in construction and extraction occupations is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033.

    Bureau of Labor Statistics


  • Diverse Opportunities: The industry's expansion is creating a variety of roles that require diverse skill sets, including project management, design, and compliance, offering numerous opportunities for women seeking non-labor-intensive positions.

Advantages for Women in Construction

Pursuing a career in construction presents several benefits:

  • Competitive Salaries: The gender pay gap in construction is narrower compared to other industries, with women earning approximately 99.1% of what their male counterparts make for the same duties.

    InterCoast Colleges


  • Career Advancement: The increasing representation of women in leadership roles reflects a positive trend towards gender diversity and inclusion, providing a supportive environment for career growth.

    Please enjoy this short interview with Brittany Spear, Showroom Manager for Cambria Charlotte. PTIS' Ray Terry has a vibrant conversation with her about her career pathway, opportunities in the industry, and non-traditional roles for women.

Conclusion

The construction industry is evolving, with a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion. For young women interested in the sector but not inclined towards hands-on labor, there are abundant opportunities in management, design, and other professional roles. With the industry's projected growth and the narrowing gender pay gap, now is an opportune time to explore a fulfilling career in construction.


Cassy Sawyer from Ferguson Enterprises joins a live podcast at the monthly NARI meeting in Charlotte, NC on Halloween, 2024. She discussed careers for women in her industry.

Sources: Recent Developments in Women's Roles in Construction

Women with designs on an engineering career

64 days ago

The Times & The Sunday Times

172 days ago

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