women are proof that skill and expertise have no gender.
Education and outreach efforts are also playing a crucial role. Job shadowing, hands-on workshops and STEM-focused initiatives introduce girls to careers in construction, sparking their interest early on and normalizing the idea that they, too, belong in the field.
Women with constructionbased careers are also mentoring others. Caplan credits strong female role models within her company with shaping her career.
“ I was so very blessed to have had the fantastic Jennifer Clark, our former global head of sustainability, and the incredible Beth Heider, our former chief sustainability officer, as mentors and role models, particularly in the early years of shifting from field positions to sustainability leadership,” she says.
“ There are dozens of other women who sponsored me in ways that advanced my career and kept me inspired by their own examples.”
She now makes a point of doing the same for others.
“ Remember that you are always potentially influencing another woman ' s life,” she says.“ How we are as role models could define a stranger ' s journey.”
The Future
Building an Inclusive Industry
The construction industry is facing a well-documented labor shortage and women represent a largely untapped talent pool. Solving this issue is about more than hiring; it requires systemic changes to create workplaces where women can thrive.
Companies that prioritize family-friendly policies, mentorship opportunities and zero-tolerance harassment policies will attract and retain more women. A more inclusive workforce leads to a positive ripple effect of better morale, productivity and innovation.
According to Caplan, this is a win for everyone.
“ The demographic is definitely shifting,” she says.“ The collaboration between men and a growing ratio of women in this work is exciting and
How We All Can Support Women In Construction
Creating a more inclusive construction industry is a collective effort. Here’ s how different groups can contribute:
• Employers: Commit to equitable hiring practices, offer mentorship programs and ensure jobsites are inclusive and accommodating.
• Individuals: Challenge stereotypes, celebrate the achievements of women in construction and act as allies in the workplace.
• Industry Organizations: Continue advocacy efforts, create networking opportunities and offer resources that empower women.
• Educational Institutions: Promote construction as a viable career path for all students and invest in outreach programs aimed at young girls. only enriches the end results for our clients.”
Technology is also helping break down barriers. Innovations like automated machinery and advanced tools reduce the physical demands of construction work, making it more accessible to people of all backgrounds.
Celebrating Women in Construction Week
Women in Construction Week is a call to action. It’ s a week to recognize progress, acknowledge the work still needed and highlight the women who continue to lead the way.
It also offers an opportunity to highlight success stories and role models. Sharing their stories can inspire and educate others about possibilities within the industry. For example, hearing about a woman foreman managing a multimillion-dollar project or a woman starting her own contracting business can plant the seed of possibility for girls considering their future careers.
“ There are so many facets to construction and so many roles that may unfold before you as you develop interests and expertise,” encourages Caplan.“ Young women entering construction can manifest any future they choose and have enough time to try multiple careers within construction.”
With each new success story, the industry becomes more inclusive, more dynamic and more representative of the world it builds.
10 February 21, 2025 www. contractorshotline. com