By TRACI HARDIN
Guest Columnist
The number of women in the construction industry continues to grow as young women are being made aware of the many opportunities available to them which were traditionally seen as only for men.
More outreach programs are now in place to recruit women that were not seen 20 to 30 years ago. Opportunities are occurring in elementary through high school programs, including school aptitude testing. Firms have and continue to develop mentoring programs to help guide employees in the development of their professional careers.
With job opportunities ranging from specialty trade and professional craft persons to architects, engineers, project management and women business ownership – the future is bright and rewarding for women who enter the construction industry.
Women who have entered the industry previously have also clearly demonstrated the aptitude for both specialty skilled labor and construction management, etc., paving the way for others to follow. Advances have been made in personal protective equipment and footwear that fit women. Diversity amongst the younger generational sectors has also had a favorable impact, with more women seen as an equal. We are all working to contribute to build a successful project regardless of our gender.
We still have inroads to make as we work to overcome gender or unconscious bias that can still exist, providing adequate training where women can continue to build on their career path, and pay equality. However, the rewards of accomplishment and recognition for contributions being made by women is growing.
Let’s keep the momentum going and celebrate “Women in Construction.”
Traci Hardin is the Vice President of Safety & Compliance at Meyer Najem Construction.