Women in Construction: Why It Matters and Why You Should Choose a Woman-Owned Business

The construction industry has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated field, with women significantly underrepresented. However, the tide is slowly turning, and more women are entering the construction workforce, from leadership roles to hands-on positions. This trend shines a light on the importance of women in construction, the challenges they face, and the benefits of choosing a woman-owned contracting company. Canterra Construction is proud to be a woman-owned business that is not only challenging industry norms but also driving innovation and excellence through diversity. There is still a way to go, but the data and statistics highlight their growing presence in the field and the positive changes women bring to the construction industry.

The Importance of Women in Construction

Construction is one of the largest industries in the world, yet it remains one of the least diverse. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women make up only about 11% of the total construction workforce, with most of these women working in office roles, rather than in trades or on-site positions. Despite these numbers, women in construction play a critical role in the industry’s future success. As we look toward a more inclusive workforce, it’s essential to recognize the importance of diversity in construction, not only for equality but also for the growth and innovation of the industry itself.

Diversity Drives Innovation

Diversity in the workplace brings fresh perspectives, new ideas, and different approaches to problem-solving. In an industry that relies heavily on innovation to meet client demands and environmental challenges, having a diverse team can make all the difference. Women, with their unique experiences and viewpoints, contribute to this diversity and help drive the construction industry forward. Companies that embrace diversity tend to outperform those that don’t, as they are better equipped to think creatively and find solutions that work for a wider range of clients.

Breaking Down Stereotypes

For decades, the image of a construction worker has been overwhelmingly male. But as more women break into the industry, they are dismantling outdated stereotypes and proving that construction is not just a man’s world. Women in construction demonstrate that the skills required for this field—problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, and technical knowledge—are not gender-specific. By breaking down these stereotypes, women are paving the way for future generations to enter the industry with fewer barriers.

Why Women in Construction Remain Rare

Despite progress, women are still underrepresented in construction, particularly in trade roles and on job sites. Several factors contribute to this, including long-standing societal expectations, a lack of female role models in the field, and challenges related to gender bias and discrimination.

Cultural Barriers

Historically, construction has been viewed as a physically demanding job suited for men. As a result, fewer women have pursued careers in the trades. This cultural expectation is slowly shifting as more women prove they can perform the physical aspects of the job just as well as men, but the lingering perception continues to be a barrier.

Lack of Female Mentorship

With so few women in the industry, it can be difficult for new female entrants to find mentors and role models. Mentorship is crucial in any field, but particularly in industries where one is the minority. Women in construction often face additional hurdles such as balancing family life with career demands, and having a mentor who understands these challenges can make all the difference in helping them succeed.

Workplace Discrimination

Unfortunately, gender bias and discrimination are still realities in many industries, including construction. Women in construction may encounter everything from subtle biases to overt discrimination on job sites. Addressing these issues requires a cultural shift within the industry, with leaders and companies fostering inclusive work environments.

The Benefits of Choosing a Woman-Owned Construction Company

Now that we’ve explored the importance of women in construction, let’s look at why choosing a woman-owned construction company like Canterra Construction offers unique benefits.

1. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

By choosing a woman-owned company, you’re supporting diversity in the construction industry. This commitment to diversity means that Canterra Construction brings together a wide range of perspectives and talents, leading to more creative and effective solutions for your project. Research shows that diverse companies tend to be more innovative and perform better financially than their less diverse counterparts.

2. Enhanced Collaboration

Women often bring strong collaboration and communication skills to the table, which are essential in construction projects that require coordination between architects, engineers, contractors, and clients. Canterra Construction prides itself on fostering a collaborative environment where all voices are heard, ensuring that the project runs smoothly from start to finish.

3. A Fresh Perspective on Design and Functionality

One of the advantages of hiring a woman-owned construction company is the fresh perspective women bring to design and functionality. Women in construction often consider the practical needs of end users in ways that may not always be prioritized in traditional construction settings. Whether it’s designing a family-friendly home or incorporating accessibility features, women can provide valuable insights that improve the overall quality of the project.

4. Leadership that Empowers

At Canterra Construction, our leadership is focused on empowering both women and men in the industry. As a woman-owned business, we understand the importance of fostering a supportive work environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. This translates to better project outcomes and a more positive experience for our clients.

Women in Construction: The Data Speaks for Itself

The numbers show that while women are still a minority in construction, their impact is growing. According to the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), women in construction have increased by 20% over the past five years. Additionally, studies show that companies with women in leadership roles tend to have higher levels of productivity, better employee satisfaction, and stronger financial performance. In 2022, women-owned businesses represented 13% of all construction firms, generating nearly $1.8 trillion in revenue. These statistics highlight the increasing importance of women in the industry and the value they bring to the table.

The construction industry is changing, and women are a vital part of its future. As more women enter the field, they bring fresh perspectives, diverse skill sets, and a collaborative approach that benefits both the industry and its clients. Canterra Construction is proud to be a woman-owned business leading the charge in creating more opportunities for women in construction.

By choosing Canterra Construction, you’re not just supporting a local business—you’re supporting diversity, inclusion, and the advancement of women in one of the most vital industries. Together, we’re building a better, more inclusive future for construction.