Women in construction: 8 initiatives that promote female workers in trades

We’re seeing more women in construction these days as contractors work to meet increasing demand. Companies and organizations are eager to promote female workers in the trades, especially since aging crew members, who have typically been male, are walking out the door with few to replace them.

Female workers are bringing much-needed skillsets to the job site. Here are eight initiatives that promote women in construction.

National Association of Women in Construction

Sixteen women who were working in the construction industry founded the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) in 1953. Knowing that women represented only a small fraction of the construction industry, the founders organized NAWIC to create a support network. Today, NAWIC provides its members with opportunities for professional development, education, networking, leadership training and public service. Learn more about scholarship opportunities and the annual conference at the link above.

Women in Construction Summit

If you’re looking to boost your career, gain industry insight and shatter the glass ceiling, look no further than the Women in Construction Summit. This London-based event focuses on tackling challenges in the construction industry, such as skill shortages, issues in project delivery and digital disruption. Its participants are pushing to understand how these areas affect productivity. They’re also looking at ways to diversify the workforce.

Professional Women in Construction

Professional Women in Construction (PWC) seeks to support women in their pursuit of career opportunities in the architecture, engineering and construction industries. The organization, which has been around for nearly 40 years and has multiple chapters, offers member resources, leadership opportunities and networking, as well as scholarships and a mentorship program.

Women Construction Owners & Executives

If you have a desire to lead, Women Construction Owners & Executives (WCOE) is for you. This organization exists to create opportunities for, influence legislation about and support women-owned construction companies. It’s an organization that will give you the chance to collaborate with like-minded entrepreneurs and executives.

Groundbreaking Women in Construction

Groundbreaking Women in Construction (GWIC) is more than just a conference. It’s a catalyst for change to inspire women at all levels to develop their leadership skills, expand their influence and boost industry growth potential. Attendees are empowered to share with, learn from, challenge and inspire one another to contribute to their workplace and realize career success.

Women in Construction by TDIndustries

Access inspiring news and feature stories about women in construction through the national subcontractor, TDIndustries. For example, they recently partnered with United Way to pilot a program that helped train women to become sheet metal technicians. You’ll also find recent success stories on women in Arizona who are experiencing incredible career-pathing opportunities.

Women in Construction Operations (WIOPS)

In 2013, a group of women from Southern California construction companies and related fields joined together to start Women in Construction Operations (WIOPS), a group geared toward mentoring women working in the operation side of construction. This group spans across several general contractors, subcontractors, engineers and architects.

Women in Skilled Trades (WIST)

Women in Skilled Trades (WIST) focuses on promoting better lives for single moms through skilled trades. This Michigan-based program features educational events and apprenticeship preparation programs.

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