Empowering Women in the Construction Industry

Changing Perceptions: Women in Construction

Construction has traditionally been viewed as a male industry. However, the number of women in construction has grown substantially in recent times. They are breaking barriers and demonstrating their capability with skills, strength, and determination.

According to a 2025 report, women make up nearly 11.1% of Indian construction workers, or almost 10.8% of the sector. While these figures might appear small, they signify considerable improvement in a male-dominated industry.

Significant Challenges for Women Construction Workers

Despite these improvements, women construction workers still encounter several challenges:

Stereotypes and Discrimination in Society

In spite of progress, women construction workers continue to experience gender discrimination and bias. Being the sole female construction worker on a site can be isolating, limiting them from achieving their full potential out of fear of outperforming their male counterparts.

Physical Expectations

Some occupations require a great deal of muscle strength, which may eliminate women from being qualified. However, most construction occupations do not need such strength, allowing more women to enter the field.

Lack of Mentorship and Support

Most ladies in construction work identify fewer opportunities for mentorship and networking, which also discourages career progression.

Few Opportunities for Advancement

Women in the construction industry find it difficult to move to leadership positions because of lingering stereotypes. The lack of female representation at the top discourages other women from doing the same.

Why More Women Are Entering Construction

Several factors have contributed to the increasing presence of women in the construction industry:

Changing Attitudes

The gender stereotypes are being overturned, and the construction industry is becoming more attractive to construction work for females.

Career Paths

From skilled trades to project management, the industry provides various career opportunities for female contractors and women-owned construction companies.

Flexibility and Equal Pay

Unlike other industries, construction provides equal pay and flexible work, which is attractive for women in construction workers.

Closing Skill Gaps

The growing demand for skilled workers in construction presents a significant opportunity for women contractors to fill the gap and thrive.

The Future of Construction Work for Women

85% of women construction workers today are satisfied with their careers, and 76% think that the industry is improving. By encouraging success stories and providing mentorship, the sector can attract more women contractors.

Moreover, employing technology within construction, such as computerised tools and automation, can reduce physical constraints for female construction workers even further. Promoting girls' and young women's STEM education can also reduce the skills gap.

Desapex, a Digital Engineering firm with more than 40% female staff, is a prime example of this positive change. Offering equal opportunities and maintaining a supporting environment can create a diverse and inclusive workforce.

In summary, as more women in construction enter the field, the industry will become more diverse and inclusive, and ultimately, everyone will achieve improved results.

Follow us for the Latest Infra Industry Updates

Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/infrajunction/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/infra_junction/