Future of women in the construction industry

Numbers are slowing rising as more women are joining the trades. Looking to the future, many see even more opportunities in the industry and enjoy the variety of work and impact it makes.

“It’s very tangible. I love that we literally build something here. It’s exciting – the sky’s the limit when it comes to finding new building techniques and better processes,” Hill said.

Brodie is a testament that women can be successful and transition to several different roles in construction. She started in a marketing role for an electrical contractor, worked in the project management field and now owns a business with her husband, Steve. In the 15 years Brodie has been in the industry, she notes that it’s getting better with more women being in construction.

“I’ve seen it across the board with a lot of larger construction companies especially in Brisbane that really embrace women in construction. There’s a lot of networking groups that involve women in construction and fostering this career and this growth path,” Brodie said.

What’s her advice to women wanting to join the industry?

“Having somebody else support you and be your cheerleader from a female management role is key,” Brodie said. “Find a team that will foster you wanting to grow and get where you want to be whether that’s in the trades or in managing work.”

Remick shares that everyone needs workers on the building site and in project management right now, hinting at the current labour shortage in the trades.  In her opinion, women won’t have a hard time getting a job as long as they’re willing to start at the bottom and learn in the field or get a Diploma in Construction Management.

“Even in our society, women are starting to be more respected, and if they can get out there and swing the hammer and dig the hole the same as the guys can, they’re going to be just fine. And much to that, if they have the same degree as a male counterpart, they’ll be fine there, too,” Remick said.

 

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