How Women Are Reshaping Construction

Welcome to the modern world of construction where women wield hammers as confidently as they do ideas.

In an industry often mistaken for a boys’ club, it’s time to shine the spotlight on the fierce females who are building bridges, breaking barriers and making their mark on the skyline.

From designers to welders, project managers to business owners, these trailblazing women are not just breaking ground – they’re shattering stereotypes.

Join us as we celebrate the grit, grace and gumption of women in construction because when it comes to building a better world, they’re the architects of change. Plus, we’ve included tips directly from the source. Heather Tankersley, co-owner of Tankersley Construction, Yvonne Johnson, co-owner of Reclaimed Karma, and Meg Billings, owner of Meg & Co. Designer Homes, all offer insights into how to navigate the industry as a woman in leadership. Let’s dive in.

Navigating the challenges of the construction industry as a woman

In this male-dominated industry, women navigate challenges with a blend of resilience and resourcefulness.

From dealing with outdated stereotypes to balancing family responsibilities with demanding job sites, they face hurdles unique to their gender. Yet, they continue to turn these obstacles into steppingstones, finding their voice amidst the noise of jackhammers and cement mixers.

“My biggest challenge has been feeling seen and heard amongst my trade partner peers. I’ve navigated this challenge by studying to show thyself approved. Meaning I put in the time and energy to really know my stuff! This way, even if other trade partners are uncomfortable seeing me walk onto the construction site, they have to respect me.”

Yvonne Johnson

Reclaimed Karma

Three ways women can overcome the challenges of working in construction

Seek mentorship and networking opportunities

Women in construction can benefit greatly from connecting with mentors and peers who’ve navigated similar challenges. Mentorship provides invaluable guidance, insights and support, helping to navigate the complexities of the industry. Plus, joining professional networks and organizations dedicated to women in construction can foster connections, provide access to resources and empower women to thrive in their careers.

Develop strong communication and assertiveness skills

Effective communication is key to success in any industry, but it’s especially crucial in construction where collaboration and coordination are essential. Women should be honing their communication skills, sharing their ideas confidently and advocating for themselves in male-dominated environments. By speaking up, asserting their expertise and establishing themselves as valuable team members, women can earn respect and recognition for their contributions.

Invest in continuous learning and skill development

The construction industry is constantly evolving with new technologies, techniques and regulations. Women can stay ahead of the curve through continuous learning and skill development. Whether it’s pursuing additional certifications, attending workshops or participating in training programs, investing in professional growth equips women with the knowledge and expertise to excel in their roles. By demonstrating a commitment to ongoing education and adaptability, women can position themselves as indispensable assets in the construction industry.

“The advice I would give to another woman in this industry is to first remove your pre-judgements of others if you want others to not prejudge you. Give people a little grace. It’s a slow change out here in the construction industry, but it is slowly changing. More and more I’m surprised when I walk onto a job site, and there’s a woman smiling back at me. It’s happening! Knowledge is key, so continue working on your craft and don’t be afraid to use your voice.”

Yvonne Johnson

Reclaimed Karma

Innovative techniques women are using to stand out from the competition

Innovation knows no bounds when it comes to women in construction. They’re leveraging creative techniques to move their businesses forward and stand out against the competition.

From sustainable building practices to integrating cutting-edge technology, female entrepreneurs are redefining industry norms and setting new standards of excellence. By embracing these new methods, they’re streamlining processes, reducing waste and delivering projects with unmatched efficiency.

Women also tend to prioritize diversity and inclusion in their teams. This fosters perspective and creativity, driving innovation from the ground up. With a forward-thinking mindset and a commitment to pushing boundaries, women in construction are not just building structures – they’re shaping the future of the industry.

“Locally, we try to be really involved with our community. Helping out a women’s shelter repair not only fills us with joy, but also allows us to connect with others across the community in a way traditional marketing doesn’t. When considering marketing, we always think about the places our top, favorite clients gather. It doesn’t make sense for me to market to the whole city when my clientele is a very small group. I also think being authentic and real is what sets us apart from others. People want to know you!”

Meg Billings

Meg & Co. Designer Homes

5 ways to foster an inclusive culture within your construction company

1. Promote diversity in hiring and recruitment: This can involve partnering with organizations that support diversity in construction, attending job fairs focused on minority candidates and using language in job postings that emphasizes inclusivity.

2. Provide diversity and inclusion training: During onboarding, cover topics such as unconscious bias, cultural competency and respectful communication, fostering a deeper understanding of the value of diversity.

3. Create opportunities for employee engagement: Encourage open dialogue and collaboration among employees by creating forums for discussion, such as diversity committees or employee resource groups.

4. Implement fair and transparent policies: This includes policies related to hiring, promotion, compensation and disciplinary action. By establishing clear guidelines and holding everyone accountable to the same standards, you can create a more equitable work environment.

5. Recognize and celebrate diversity: Celebrate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives and contributions of employees through recognition programs, company events and cultural celebrations. Acknowledging and valuing the unique qualities of each team member fosters a sense of pride and appreciation, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity within the company culture.

“I think it’s all about education. When you didn’t grow up in construction, and you don’t know all the terms, it’s very intimidating to try to put yourself out there. The more I can teach my team, the more they seem to flourish. I love to see their confidence and their perspective on things. Some of our greatest ideas have come from those who didn’t grow up in the industry.”

Meg Billings

Meg & Co. Designer Homes

How to support the growth of women in construction

Supporting the growth of women in construction means addressing various barriers and fostering an inclusive environment. Construction business owners should be:

Attracting more women into the industry by actively promoting construction careers to women through educational programs, career fairs and mentorship opportunities.
Providing training and development programs tailored to the needs of women, so they can acquire the necessary skills and expertise to thrive in this field.
Encouraging diversity and inclusion initiatives within their companies in order to create a welcoming and inclusive culture where women feel valued and empowered to succeed.
Advocating for equal pay and advancement opportunities for women in construction, ensuring their long-term growth and retention in the industry.

By addressing these key areas, we can create a more diverse, equitable and vibrant construction workforce that harnesses the full potential of women’s talent.

“As a woman in this industry, I’ve seen that by putting yourself out there and making connections, you not only build a support network that can help you navigate the industry but also become a valuable resource for others. It’s highly likely that someone else has gone through or has insight into what you’re about to experience. By leaning into these network connections, you not only get through the tough times but also contribute to the collective success, celebrating wins together.”

Heather Tankersley

Tankersley Construction

Become a part of the community of women in construction

The number of women not only joining the industry, but leading it, is growing every year.

And a great place to meet other females in construction is at our monthly networking and training conference, Buildertrend University.

Join dozens of other construction pros each month to learn business best practices, how to use tech to improve your processes and to meet other builders going through the same challenges as you.