By Karalynn Cromeens, Cromeens Law Firm

The construction industry has long been seen as a male-dominated field, one defined by hard hats, steel-toed boots, and tough physical labor. Yet, women have always played a vital role in shaping the industry, often behind the scenes in critical support positions.

Today, that narrative is shifting. Women are stepping out from the shadows and taking on leadership roles, operating machinery, owning construction businesses, and changing the face of the trade altogether. It is time to celebrate their contributions—not only for what
they have achieved in the past, but for the transformative progress they are making today.

A Legacy of Quiet Contributions
Historically, women in construction worked predominantly in administrative, clerical, and other support roles. They managed payroll, ensured compliance with regulations, and helped keep job sites organized. These positions, while essential to the success of any
construction project, often went unrecognized. Despite their importance, women rarely received the same credit or visibility as their male counterparts who worked on the front lines.
While much of this quiet labor was invisible, women consistently proved their resilience, adaptability, and determination. For instance, during World War II, women famously took on roles in factories and shipyards, joining the “Rosie the Riveter” movement. Many even
entered construction trades to fill in for men who had gone to war, showcasing their ability to handle the physical and technical demands of the job. Yet, after the war ended, they were often forced back into the shadows—a stark reminder of the systemic barriers they
faced.

Stepping into Frontline Roles
Fast-forward to today, and the picture looks remarkably different. While challenges persist, women are increasingly finding their place in frontline construction roles, proving that they belong not only in the office but also on the job site.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2022, women made up 14% of the construction workforce. Within this figure, women are increasingly assuming positions that break the mold, such as electricians, heavy equipment operators, and even foremen (or
should we say forewomen?). These roles, once almost exclusively filled by men, are now opportunities for women to display their expertise and craftsmanship. The hands-on contributions from women in construction are critical, especially in a time when the industry faces a significant labor shortage. With a lack of skilled workers slowing down projects nationwide, women are stepping up to fill the demand and driving the industry forward.

Paving the Way as Business Owners
One of the most remarkable trends in recent years is the rise of women-owned construction businesses. From managing multimillion-dollar projects to creating innovative approaches for sustainable building, women entrepreneurs are reshaping the
industry landscape.
Women-owned construction firms grew by 64% between 2014 and 2019, according to the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). What’s even more impressive is that these businesses are thriving. They are proving to be competitive, innovative, and resilient, demonstrating that women are not just participating in the industry—they’re leading it.

Breaking Barriers and Growing Representation
Despite this progress, barriers persist for women in the field. Discrimination, unconscious bias, and lack of representation are challenges that cannot be ignored. A survey from Constructing Equality found that nearly 60% of women in construction experienced gender-based discrimination on the job. Additionally, women often have to work harder to prove their worth in male-dominated spaces, something their male counterparts rarely face.
However, organizations like the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and programs aimed at increasing diversity in trades are helping to break these barriers. They offer networking opportunities, resources, scholarships, and advocacy to empower
women to succeed in all aspects of the construction industry.