HOW WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION ARE SHAPING THE FUTURE OF THE SECTOR PART 1

The following article is written by Susan Truter, real estate and construction sector leader at Forvis Mazars in South Africa. It is Part 1 of a two-part series.

Despite the common perception that construction—a field often associated with heavy physical labour and rugged conditions—is an unlikely fit for women, the reality is far more nuanced. As traditional gender roles evolve, women who venture into the construction industry are not only breaking barriers but also thriving by leveraging their unique strengths.

Far from being deterred by the demands of the job, these women bring a diverse range of skills and perspectives that are transforming the industry from within. Their passion and resilience highlight that success in construction isn’t solely defined by physical prowess, but also by creativity, problem-solving, and leadership—qualities that women excel in and bring to the forefront of this dynamic field.

Construction’s culture that can be tough and unwelcoming to women. However, as more women enter the industry, this culture is beginning to shift. Companies are recognising the value of diversity and are working to create more equitable and supportive environments for all employees.

One of the most profound impacts of having more women in construction is the diversity of thought and perspective they bring to the trenches. Diverse teams are known to be more creative and innovative, as they combine different viewpoints and experiences to solve complex problems. In construction, this can lead to the development of new building techniques, more sustainable practices and a broader understanding of client needs.

For example, women in construction are often strong advocates for sustainable building practices, which are becoming increasingly important as the industry faces the challenges of climate change and resource scarcity. Their focus on long-term environmental impact can lead to more efficient use of materials, the adoption of green technologies, and the design of buildings that are both functional and environmentally friendly.

Women are also known for their strong communication and collaboration skills, which are critical in the construction industry, where projects often involve large teams and multiple stakeholders. Effective communication can lead to better project management, fewer misunderstandings, and smoother execution of complex tasks. Women in leadership roles can create more cohesive teams by fostering a culture of open dialogue and mutual respect.

Moreover, women tend to prioritise collaboration over competition, which can help break down the silos that often exist in large construction projects. This collaborative approach can improve efficiency, reduce delays, and lead to higher-quality outcomes. By encouraging teamwork and the sharing of ideas, women in construction are helping to create a more cooperative and supportive work environment.

A cultural change is reflected in the growing number of initiatives aimed at supporting women in construction, such as mentorship programmes, networking opportunities, and policies that promote work-life balance. These initiatives not only help to retain women in the industry but also contribute to a more positive and inclusive workplace culture.

As an example, last year’s CESA Young Engineer of the Year, Mareli Botha, according to RACA Journal, illustrates how gender does not have to be an obstacle. With a passion for sustainability and innovative design, Botha has thrived in her career, working on projects that have the potential to transform Africa’s green economy. She believes that the strength of the engineering field lies in its diversity. “What makes us strong is having variety in the field—different genders, cultures—which brings different ways of thinking. Women in STEM are therefore vital,” she asserts.