From March 2-8, 2025, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is once again leading the celebration of Women in Construction (WIC) Week—a time dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in an industry that is, quite literally, building the future. But here’s the thing: shouldn’t we be celebrating women in construction all year round?
From Sixteen Women to a National Movement
It all started in 1953, when a group of 16 determined women in Fort Worth, Texas came together to form what was then called Women in Construction of Fort Worth. Their mission? To create a network of support for the few women working in a male-dominated industry. And what started as a small local group grew into NAWIC, an association that now has 115 chapters across the U.S.
Then, in 1960, Women in Construction Week was officially introduced to honor NAWIC’s work in advocating for women in the field. Decades later, thanks to their efforts, the stigma around women in construction has shrunk significantly, the pay gap is smaller compared to other industries, and more women are picking up hard hats and building successful careers.
Why We Need More Women in Construction
It’s no secret that the construction industry is desperate for skilled workers. And yet, while women make up nearly half of the total U.S. workforce, they only represent about 11% of the construction industry. That’s an opportunity waiting to be built upon!
Not only do women bring valuable skills and perspectives to the job, but construction careers offer competitive salaries, career growth, and job stability—a package many other industries simply can’t match.
So, how do we bring more women into the field and keep them there? Here are five key ways to recruit and retain women in construction:
1. Focus on the Benefits
Let’s make sure women know what’s in it for them! Construction careers offer great pay, job security, and career advancement opportunities—without the burden of hefty student loans. Highlighting flexible work arrangements and family-friendly policies can also help attract more women.
2. Change the Perception
Outdated stereotypes still exist, but let’s prove them wrong. Women can and do excel in construction—not just in offices but on job sites, in leadership roles, and as skilled tradespeople. The more visible women are in these roles, the more others will see construction as a viable career path.
3. Provide Comprehensive Training
Training and mentorship programs specifically geared toward women can help ease the transition into construction careers. Hands-on experience, apprenticeships, and certification programs can boost confidence, competence, and career success.
4. Advocate for Change
Companies that actively recruit, support, and promote women set themselves up for long-term success. This means advocating for equal pay, anti-discrimination policies, and inclusive workplaces that recognize the value of diversity.
5. Support Career Advancement
Women need opportunities to climb the ladder. That means sponsorship, mentorship, and leadership training should be part of every company’s game plan. Encouraging women to join NAWIC is another great way to help them build their networks and advance their careers.
The Future of Women in Construction
NAWIC isn’t just making waves in the U.S.—it has international affiliations with Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and the U.K. The mission is the same everywhere: empowering women in construction to thrive and lead.
So, let’s make Women in Construction Week 2025 an unforgettable celebration—but let’s not stop there. Whether it’s March, July, or December, every day is a great day to recognize the incredible women lifting, designing, welding, managing, and innovating in construction.
Want to be part of the movement? Join NAWIC, mentor a young woman, or simply spread the word—because the future of construction is stronger with women in it.
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Gary Fleisher, The Modcoach, writes about the modular and offsite construction industry at Modular Home Source.
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