Women in Construction Week is celebrated annually in the first week of March to appreciate the efforts and achievements of women in the construction industry.  

History of Women in Construction Week 

If we look back in history, the participation of women has been really low in the construction industry. Some of the reasons often mentioned are they are not physically fit for this job, it was a male-dominated sector, it involved working in remote locations and long hours, etc. But over the years women proved they were as capable as men in this industry by completing outstanding construction projects. 

When the Industrial Revolution happened in the 19th century, there was a huge demand for workers, and that was the time when women officially entered the construction industry. 

The Current Scenario 

Despite the significant progress of women at present, only 11% of women are working in construction firms. But the good thing is that women have taken every role in the industry from daily wage site workers, site supervisors, and site architects, to project delivery heads and other executive positions. The contributions of women brought about diversity which not only improved innovation, but also strengthened the teamwork and problem-solving ability within the organization. 

India is also committed to advancing women’s empowerment and encouraging women’s participation in the construction sector. One example of this is the 371-room hotel which was developed entirely by a women-led engineering team. The Indian Hotel Company (IHCL) collaborated with TATA projects for the construction of the Ginger Hotel at Santacruz, Mumbai. The hotel was built over an area of 19000 sq.m, and it was constructed over 19 months.  

Excelize Supports and Celebrates Women’s Contributions 

---

---

Events and Activities 

Worldwide several communities, groups, and forums are coming forward to promote women in construction. Workshops, seminars, and networking events are organized with the intention of connecting women in industries and building an atmosphere of community and teamwork. Companies are encouraging their women employees to participate in such networking events. 

Participation in these events offers an excellent opportunity to learn new things and network with professionals from the industry, which will help boost careers. Companies are also showcasing their commitment to recruiting and retaining women and giving them wider roles and responsibilities within the workforce. 

Why women in Construction is important? 

• The worldwide construction industry is facing a labor shortage. The incorporation of women can help bridge this gap by widening the talent pool and introducing fresh talent and perspective. 

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, women accounted for just 7.7% of the total 1 million management jobs in construction. This indicates a great opportunity to increase woman leadership. 

• Women’s problem-solving abilities benefit project management and design, resulting in a more comprehensive approach. 

• A study says women return their earnings to their communities. Creating high-paying job opportunities for women empowers individuals and fosters a flourishing economy in the long term. 

• A diversified workplace promotes cultural relationships. More women in the construction industry offer distinct perspectives, strengthening respect and collaboration in an inclusive workplace. 

Conclusion:

Women in Construction reminds us of the critical role women play in transforming the construction industry. Despite historical challenges and ongoing underrepresentation, women are driving innovation, enhancing teamwork, and addressing the labor shortages that the industry faces. Their involvement not only enriches the workplace but also fosters economic growth and community development. 

It’s essential to commit to increasing women’s representation in all roles, from entry-level positions to leadership, and to support initiatives that empower women in construction. By doing so, we can create a more diverse, inclusive, and resilient industry that benefits everyone.