According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), women comprised 10.8% of the construction workforce in 2023. The low gender pay gap, increasing job opportunities, and on-the-job training support paths for women in construction. Also, the National Association of Women in Construction provides guidance and support to benefit women as they build their careers.
Discover why more women are charting new paths in construction.
Low Gender Pay Gap for Women in Construction
Payscale’s 2024 Gender Pay Gap report shows that women generally earn 83% as much as men. In contrast, the National Association of Women in Construction reports that women in construction earn an average of 94.3% as much as men. The increasing wages in the construction industry are helping close the gender gap, encouraging more women to build construction careers.
Increasing Job Opportunities for Women in Construction
As construction workers retire or leave the industry to work in other fields, fewer workers replace them. This growing labor shortage opens up additional job opportunities for women. As a result, women can pursue lucrative careers in labor, skilled trades, project management, estimating, marketing, administration, and executive leadership within the construction industry.
On-the-Job Training for Women in Construction
Women can complete an apprenticeship or trade program to enter the construction industry. These free or low-cost programs provide the necessary education and hands-on training to start a construction career.
Women can further their construction careers by earning relevant certifications such as:
- Construction Bookkeeping Technician (CBT)
- Construction Document Technician (CDT)
- Construction Industry Specialist (CIS)
- Construction Industry Technician (CIT)
- Estimating and Scheduling Practitioner (ESP)
Professional Association for Women in Construction
The National Association of Women in Construction has over 115 chapters in the United States and affiliate organizations worldwide. This association provides its members with community, education, networking, mentorship, and leadership opportunities. The career resources include construction job openings and professional development workshops and courses.
Top Construction Jobs for Women
According to the U.S. News and World Report Best Construction Jobs of 2024 report, the top three construction jobs are:
Electrician
Typical duties: Design, install, maintain, and repair motors, equipment, or electrical systems for residences and businesses.
Projected jobs: 49,200
Education needed: High school diploma or GED
Construction Manager
Typical duties: Help plan projects, estimate costs, and work with laborers during production.
Projected jobs: 22,900
Education needed: Bachelor’s degree
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Typical duties: Assemble, implement, and maintain solar panels on the rooftops of residences and buildings.
Projected jobs: 6,600
Education needed: High school diploma or GED
Do You Need to Hire Construction Workers?
Partner with SitePro Solutions to hire qualified workers to help complete construction projects. Contact us to get started today.
