Shattering Ceilings:  How Women Can Thrive in Construction

JUNE 24, 2025 — Women and construction.  For many people, those two words don’t go together.  To most, construction is a male-dominated industry. And while that is true, there are more than one million women in the United States that work in the construction industry. That is nearly 11% of the workforce, and I am one of them.  And I love it.

For decades, women like me have been forging a new path in this industry, challenging stereotypes, and overcoming many obstacles – including bias and lack of equality.  It hasn’t always been easy, that is for sure, but I stayed resilient and determined.  Determined to prove that I belonged on the job site just as much as anyone else.  As a young project engineer, I quickly learned that part of my job was to confront those stereotypes while navigating male-dominated work cultures. 

I did it all very well, so I have been told.  I was able to prove my worth through my hard work, grit, and my ability to thrive in challenging environments.  I have consistently demonstrated that I have solid leadership skills.  I spoke up for myself over and over to make sure my voice was heard. And it was. After more than 25 years in the industry, I now hold a leadership position with my design-build company. 

Because I know firsthand the challenges that exist for women in construction, I wanted to share some tricks of the trade that helped me climb the ranks. 

• Build a network:  I can’t stress enough the importance of surrounding yourself with mentors, peers and allies who can provide guidance and encouragement.  Join local professional organizations – there are a lot of them out there for women in construction. Can’t find one you like?  Partner with female peers and start your own. 

• Hone your craft:  Continue developing skills and expertise in your chosen field.  Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences relevant to your field of expertise. And make sure you stay up to date on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies. By doing so, you’ll become a valuable asset to the team.

• Stay resilient:  This is the hardest and the most important piece of advice I can give.  It is critical to develop coping strategies to manage stress.  Make self-care a priority so that you can establish healthy boundaries.  And finally, be open to change – adaptability is key to resilience especially since this industry is constantly evolving. 

• Forge relationships:  I’ve been told my ability to foster strong relationships with key stakeholders is one of my superpowers. The construction industry is all about building relationships – with clients, prospects, subcontractors, and project teams.  The key to relationship building is clear communication and transparency with everyone on the job. 

In the end, it’s not just about climbing the ranks.  It’s about paving the way for future generations of females in construction, one that is inclusive, equitable and built on the foundation of diversity. As women continue to rise in construction, together we’ll shatter ceilings, break barriers, and build a more inclusive future for all.