How Technology is Creating a More Inclusive Environment for Women in Construction

The construction industry has historically been a challenging field for women, with only 13% of the industry and a mere 1% of tradespeople being women, according to recent research by Autodesk.

Fortunately, there are signs of change, as 75% of construction professionals have indicated that their companies are now prioritising the hiring of individuals from diverse backgrounds. This commitment is also coupled with significant investment, with 26% of businesses planning to allocate funds towards diversity and inclusion in the next two years.

Despite this progress, there is still much work to be done. Prioritising diversity in construction is not only crucial for creating a more inclusive environment, but also for bridging the talent gap. The industry is projected to need an additional 266,000 construction professionals by 2026. To meet this demand, efforts must be made to attract and retain individuals from backgrounds that have not traditionally considered a career in the built environment.

A notable shift in the construction industry is the move towards digitalisation and data-driven strategies. Technology is not only making organizations more efficient and sustainable but is also helping to attract more women to the industry.

Dispelling Misconceptions

One of the barriers for women in the construction sector is the persistent misconceptions about the industry. Many still perceive construction as a male-dominated field that requires physical strength and manual labour. However, data-driven insights and digital design have become essential to success in the industry.

Efforts to encourage women to pursue careers in STEM fields are increasing, but the focus has predominantly been on technology and engineering. More outreach is needed to educate young women about the opportunities in construction to apply these skills.

Eliminating Gender Bias

The language used in job adverts and interviews can often be a barrier for women in construction, with some studies showing a more “masculine-coded” tone in descriptions for senior roles. Using AI to identify and remove such language in the recruitment process is one way technology is addressing gender bias in the industry.

Breaking Down Barriers through Collaboration Technology

The construction industry faces a “leaky pipe” issue, struggling to both attract and retain women. The adoption of collaboration tools and common data environments has made a notable impact, particularly with the surge in remote work. These tools facilitate networking and relationship building, and working in a flexible or remote setting removes invisible biases and encourages the retention of women, particularly those with care responsibilities.

Investing in Emerging Technologies

With 95% of UK construction companies planning to invest in emerging technologies, it is clear that the industry’s success is becoming increasingly reliant on digital ways of working and technological innovation. However, attracting specialists with digital skills is crucial.

Karen Blay, a senior lecturer in digital construction and quantity surveying at Loughborough University, highlighted the interlinkage between talent issues and technological challenges. Without a clear pathway for individuals from all backgrounds, the construction sector risks falling behind.

In conclusion, technology is playing a pivotal role in levelling the playing field for women in the construction industry. As the sector adapts to digital ways of working and opens its doors to diverse talents, it is paving the way for a more inclusive and progressive future.