Page 14 - Builder Brief March 2025

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION
2025 WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION WEEK INSPIRES GSABA CAREER FAIR APRIL 23RD
Women in Construction Week (WIC Week) March 3rd – 7th, an annual initiative by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), has become a pivotal event for recognizing and celebrating the vital contributions of women in the construction industry. WIC Week 2025 carries a renewed sense of urgency, focusing on empowering women in leadership, embracing emerging technologies, fostering mentorship and equity, and crucially, addressing the industry's workforce development needs through initiatives like job shadowing.
While women now represent 14 percent of the construction workforce (up from 10.9 percent five years ago), significant challenges remain. WIC Week 2025 emphasizes that diversity isn't just an ethical imperative, it's a strategic advantage. To truly capitalize on this growing pool of talent and address the persistent talent shortage, the industry must invest in robust workforce development programs.
Bridging the Skills Gap: The Imperative for Workforce Development
The construction industry faces a significant skills gap. Attracting and keeping a diverse workforce, particularly women, requires more than just recruitment. It demands comprehensive workforce development strategies that include:
• Targeted Training Programs: Developing specialized training programs that equip women with the technical skills needed for both skilled trades and leadership roles. These programs should address the specific needs and challenges women may face in the industry.
• Apprenticeships and Job Shadowing: Expanding access to apprenticeship programs and incorporating job shadowing opportunities. Job shadowing allows women to experience firsthand the various roles within the construction industry, from skilled trades like electricians and carpenters to project management and engineering. This exposure can spark interest, build confidence, and offer valuable insights into career paths. WIC Week 2025 should promote and facilitate partnerships between educational institutions, construction companies, and NAWIC chapters to create robust job shadowing programs.
• Mentorship and Sponsorship: Pairing women with experienced mentors and sponsors who can provide
guidance, support, and advocate for their advancement within the company. Mentorship programs, like NAWIC’s existing initiatives, should be further strengthened and integrated with workforce development efforts.
• Continuing Education and Professional Development: Providing opportunities for women to enhance their skills and stay up to date with the latest technologies and industry best practices. This includes offering workshops, certifications, and leadership training programs.
Progress and Persistent Challenges
While women hold over 20 percent of leadership positions in construction in 2025 (a notable improvement), and inroads are being made in skilled trades, attrition rates for women remain higher than for men. This highlights the need for systemic change, including addressing workplace culture, promoting inclusivity, and accommodating work-life balance.
Mentorship and Education: Cornerstones of Success
Mentorship and education remain crucial for driving change. NAWIC's initiatives, like the Mentoring Program and NAWIC EDGE, are vital. WIC Week 2025 amplifies these programs and emphasize the importance of practical, on- the-job guidance, especially for women entering skilled trades. This includes promoting job shadowing as a key component of mentorship, allowing women to experience the realities of different roles before committing to a specific career path.
14 MARCH 2025 | GREATER SAN ANTONIO BUILDERS ASSOCIATION