The gender gap is an issue that’s present across all industries. However, the most significant differences appear within construction and engineering.
Firstly, the huge gap in the number of women working in roles in these industries compared to men is astonishing. Secondly, the rate of pay for women who do work in construction and engineering are issues that need tackling head-on.
Luckily, the solution is quite simple.
A study in 2018 showed across all industries, women's pay is 9.7% lower than their male colleagues. However, this number jumps to a shocking 36% in construction and engineering.
This has since lowered to 20.43% (thanks to large infrastructure projects such as HS2, Hinkley Point C and Thames Tideway). But there is still a long road ahead.
The gender divide is not just present in pay gaps. The number of women working within and holding authoritative roles in these industries is mind-blowing. For example, statistics from 399 corporate boards show that only 22% of board members are women. Furthermore, there is a significant number having exclusively male members.
In 2021, numbers like these are shocking. It might be natural to assume that the route of the problem goes back to bias that starts in school. - "Careers in construction or engineering are for boys". The positive news is that there is very little evidence to suggest this is still present in teaching.
So why does there remain to be such a huge gap in the number of women in these careers? - The answer to this question can be found in the following solutions.
Authority Roles for Women in Construction and Engineering
One of the key ways we can begin to bridge the gender gap in these industries is to recognise the achievement of leading women in the fields and bring more women into authority roles. Highlighting and praising women who already work in construction and engineering has a really positive impact. Showing pride and appreciation for women in a field where they are often overlooked will have a positive effect. Ultimately, career pathways will look more appealing and change attitudes towards women in construction and engineering. Similarly, bringing more women into authoritative roles fosters a better power balance. With more women as key decision-makers this will prove the potential of careers for female workers. Moreover, if girls and women can see people like them in positions of power, it shows that they too can achieve the same success in such industries. Companies can do their bit to bridge the gender gap in these areas by introducing more initiatives that support women to climb the seniority ladder. More advertising for existing programs can also help inform women about the tools that are readily available.Better Education
There may no longer be any evident gender bias in schools regarding teaching young people about the construction and engineering industries. However, education is the primary way in which the gender gap can be closed. Construction and Engineering is thought to be physically demanding work, better suited to male workers. However, these industries are made up of hundreds of roles that require a variety of skills. Better education on the roles that make up these industries will break down presuppositions about what makes someone the right fit for a career in the field, particularly gender. In the construction industry, the arduous work of builders only skims the surface of potential job roles. Roles in health and safety, construction management, procurement, surveying, estimating, and site inspection are just a few of the available job opportunities. Still, they are not ones many might be aware of. Increasing people’s knowledge of the roles that are required for construction and engineering projects changes the publics perception. In addition, with a better understanding, women will be more likely to explore boundless job opportunities.Changing the Narrative and Increasing Equality
Starting a conversation will always be one of the easiest ways to break down the stigma and shifting attitudes. Male-centric cultures in certain sectors have a role to play in why there are so few women in the industry. If you don’t feel included in social circles at work, you aren’t likely to feel comfortable in the job. If you're a man, observe the nature of your conversations with colleagues and out of social work interactions. Pay attention to the language used that might be alienating your female colleagues. Why not try to make a shift if you notice things that could be improved. This isn’t to say that the majority of male work environments are inherently gated. Still, suppose you want to play your part in making the construction and engineering industries more welcoming to women. In that case, you must make small meaningful changes with your colleagues, whether they are male or female.
Inclusive Essentials - Construction equipment and PPE designed for women
CMT is helping increase gender diversity in the industry by making women's workwear and PPE more readily available. There is nothing more discouraging than realising there are less options for essential equipment, just because you're a woman. This sends a clear message: there isn't female equipment because this isn't a female field. We're changing that message by growing our range of women's workwear and PPE. PPE and workwear provide the best protection when it fits properly. Tailored designs providefemale workers with the protection they deserve. You can find our great range of women's workwear and safety equipment here . You'll discover great quality items such as the Vixen Emerald workshoe, with steel toe cap and comfortable fit in sizes 3-7, or specialist work clothing like the HiVis work trousers from LEO.Closing the Divide
The solution to the gender gap in construction and engineering is straightforward, but it takes conscious effort and time. We hope to see more companies make active efforts to bring more women into senior roles. Ultimately offering support and opportunities to women in the industry as a whole. CMT will continue to play their part. By providing education and information as well as quality workwear and PPE for skilled women in construction and engineering.
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