By Mark Smith 04/03/2025

Under: PPE and Workwear / News and Events

It's Time To Celebrate Women Working In Construction!

Women in Construction Week (WIC Week) is an annual event that honours the essential roles women play in the construction sector. It’s the perfect opportunity to show our support to all females that choose to work in the construction industry and also encourage more women to join. Taking place during the first full week of March, WIC Week also highlights the skilled and hardworking women who are overcoming obstacles, transforming skylines, and changing the narrative in a field that has long been male dominated.

Women have played a vital role in the construction industry for many years, despite the traditional view of it being a “man’s world.” Now, women are breaking barriers and excelling in various positions such as project managers, engineers, architects, tradeswomen, and executives. Their skills, knowledge, and innovation are helping to shape a better future for the construction industry. Nevertheless, there are still challenges to overcome, highlighting the need for increased awareness and advocacy.

How many females work in construction in the UK?

Despite the construction industry historically being dominated by men, in recent years the percentage of woman in construction is steadily increasing.  Construction news reported a 15.6% female workforce in April to June 2023 – up 1.2% on the previous quarter. That’s good news for all.

Although the number of women in the industry is increasing, their representation, particularly in practical trade positions, is still quite low. Women encounter specific obstacles such as workplace bias, insufficient mentorship, and a lack of visibility. WIC Week plays an essential role in: 

• Showcasing the accomplishments of women in the field Inspiring more women to consider careers in construction
• Promoting diversity and inclusion within the workplace
• Informing industry leaders about the advantages of a diverse workforce.

 

How we can encourage more women to join the construction industry

Women bring unique strengths to construction. Their involvement fosters more innovative, inclusive, and efficient workplaces for all. 

Modern day construction companies can make it easier for women to work and prosper within the industry by providing:

1) More family-friendly benefits – this could include assistance with childcare costs, flexible working arrangements, remote working and parental leave options.

2) Better training and development opportunities – including training programs, professional development and mentoring schemes tailored specially to women in order to enhance their skillsets within the construction industry.

3) Equal pay and opportunities – being paid the same hourly rate of pay for the same job and also ensuring that women are able to access the same promotion opportunities within the construction industry as men do. 

4) Strict workplace discrimination and harassment policies – this includes having policies in place which all workers must adhere to. If any issue does arise, there should be a clear, safe and concise avenue to report allegations. 

The implementation of these strategies all help to shape a more inclusive, supportive working environment for women in the construction industry. As a result, this will lead to a higher retention rate for women, more progression to managerial roles and success within the industry as a whole.

How we have adapted to the changing industry

As the number of women working in the construction industry increases, so does our product range catering specifically to females. Historically, all safety clothing and equipment was designed for men. As a result women would have to “size up”. During recent years this has changed with the introduction of women’s clothing range and workwear. We stock a vast range of women’s construction trousers, women’s hi-vis vests, construction shoes and boots for women and much more, because one size doesn’t fit all!

View some of our best sellers:

Elles Ladies Polo Shirt

 

Vixen Onyx Ladies Composite Safety Boot

Emerald Ladies Safety Boots

Elles Ladies Fleece Jacket

Ladies Hi-Vis Executive Vest

Breathable Ladies Hi-Vis Jacket

Hi-Vis Ladies Cargo Trousers

Regatta Hudson Ladies Jacket

 

The future for women in construction

Women in Construction Week is not just a time for celebration; it represents a significant movement. It’s a call to action for the industry to continue breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for women. The future of construction relies on a diverse and talented workforce, and women are crucial in shaping that future.

By increasing awareness and backing initiatives that encourage inclusivity, we can cultivate a more robust and innovative construction sector - one where women excel, lead, and motivate the upcoming generation.

We need to keep tackling issues of gender equality and diversity by removing barriers and creating additional opportunities for women. Let’s keep empowering women and advocating for inclusion across the board. Let’s honour the women who are constructing our world - one project, one building, and one achievement at a time!