Women in Construction
Women had long fought for equality both in society and in the workplace. The struggle of the female workforce dates back to the 1800s, but thankfully, most of those issues were resolved in the following years.
However, while there are numerous opportunities in the technical field, especially in construction and engineering, offered to the female graduates of today, most of these much-needed individuals opt out of the trade. The construction industry is already at millions in employees alone, but with almost ten million in the field itself, the female workforce only represents less than five percent of the number.
Recent engineering report from London’s Institution of Civil Engineers and Lighthouse Club Women in Construction Group based in Hong Kong states that most women seem to stay clear for these job offers mainly because they were previously held by men and are still dominated by men today. They find the work environment pretty intimidating and would often be the subject of maltreatment and discrimination. These claims are backed up by tons of reports and lawsuits against construction companies preferring men over women.
The other factor why female graduates prefer to work in some other industries is because of the physically demanding job required from those in the field. After all, it is never easy to splice an electrical cable and paint a whole house within a limited deadline.
The number of women in the field may look alarming now, but with the help of several women-empowered organizations and the developing technologies in construction today, it will not be long before this number hopefully rise. It also helps to convince women that the construction industry is not all bad and will welcome them with open arms. This step may not happen overnight, but the foreseeable future is bright for the industry. We just need a little boost from those in power and proper education for the graduates.
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