As businesses adapt to new challenges, the construction industry should be capitalising on the strategic advantage of female talent, beyond merely a box-ticking exercise. Women represent an untapped potential in the built environment, yet they remain significantly underrepresented. Addressing this imbalance is not only about fairness, but also about ensuring the industry stays innovative and is ready to meet the challenges of the future.
Navigating a global career in construction
Relocating internationally for work was a huge decision, but it can also be an opportunity for growth. My move to Peru in 2022 was driven by a desire for professional and personal development. With nearly two decades of experience in the built environment, I have witnessed the complexities women face in construction first-hand. Gender disparity remains a persistent challenge, and while the industry has made strides towards inclusion, progress is slow. My experience across the UK and Latin America has reinforced my belief that greater gender diversity is essential to the industry's long-term success.
The gender gap in construction
Despite some progress, women make up only 15% of the UK construction workforce, with just 1% in manual, site-based roles. Senior leadership remains overwhelmingly male, with only 7% of executive positions held by women. These figures are not just statistics - they reflect the systemic barriers that prevent talented professionals from advancing in their careers. In Peru, the numbers are even starker, with women comprising just 7% of the industry. Cultural and structural biases continue to hinder progress, making it imperative for organisations to build inclusive workplaces that empowers people to make a difference.
Breaking barriers and driving change
Throughout my career, I have encountered challenges that many women in construction will recognise - being underestimated, overlooked, or facing resistance in leadership roles. Early on, I attributed these experiences to a lack of expertise, believing that time and skill development would even the playing field. However, after nearly 20 years, it’s clear that systemic change is still needed. To address this, a group of colleagues and I founded International Women in Construction (IWiC), a platform designed to support, mentor, and advocate for women in the industry. IWiC aims to create a sense of community and visibility for women in construction. By sharing experiences, providing mentorship, and challenging outdated norms, we, empower women to advance in their careers.
The business case for diversity
A more inclusive construction industry is not only a moral imperative; it is a business necessity. Research consistently shows that diverse teams drive better decision-making, increased innovation, and improved financial performance. In a study published by Cloverpop, it was found that diverse teams made better decisions for their business 87% of the time, compared to non-diverse teams. With the construction sector facing a labour shortage, attracting and retaining diverse talent is crucial. Companies that prioritise diversity will gain a competitive edge, creating a workforce that reflects the communities they serve.
The path forward
To achieve meaningful change, we need to rethink how talent is recruited, developed, and retained in construction. Organisations must implement mentorship programmes, challenge unconscious bias, and ensure leadership structures reflect the diverse talent available. Apprenticeship and training programmes should actively engage women, showcasing the breadth of opportunities within the industry. Schools, universities, and industry leaders must collaborate to inspire the next generation of female professionals. Moreover, emerging technologies such as AI, digital construction techniques, and modular building provide new avenues to reshape the workforce. These advancements present an opportunity to redefine traditional roles and create an environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive.
Leadership for a sustainable future
True leadership in construction is about more than delivering projects, it’s about cultivating an environment where every professional, regardless of gender, is treated fairly and with respect. Although there is still a long way to go, I’m proud of Gleeds’ progress and commitment to gender equality. By pledging to the Women’s Empowerment Principles and other initiatives, we hold ourselves accountable, measuring our progress against industry challenges.
Until gender equality is fully realised, support networks like IWiC and the Women’s Allies Group remain essential. As we build the future, let us ensure that construction is an industry where talent, innovation, and leadership are recognised based on merit, not gender. By committing to change today, we create a more resilient, dynamic, and inclusive built environment that fosters personal brilliance and collective excellence.
