It’s long been well-known that diversity in the construction industry is lacking. However, many construction companies are striving to become more inclusive of women and minorities. While there’s plenty of room for improvement, the building sector overall is recognizing the need and benefits of a more equal workforce.
2024 reporting by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows significant disparities in construction employees. 87.3 percent of those working in the industry are white and women represent only 11.2 percent. Hispanic workers represent 35.1 percent. Underrepresentation among Black and Asian professionals is even lower at 6.5 percent and 2.1 percent, respectively.
Many working in or considering pursuing these male- and non-Hispanic-dominated careers advocate for diversity and equality in construction, especially concerning fair hiring processes, overcoming gender and cultural biases, and distributing fair wages. Some unfortunate historical issues make this a difficult battle:
Diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are business strategies that promote greater innovation, collaboration and productivity for higher returns. They involve adopting a mindset of doing things differently than they’ve traditionally been done.
Supporting diversity in construction enhances the sector’s effectiveness. By bringing together more people from different backgrounds and varying perspectives, the industry canevolve and continue growing in a positive direction.
Other benefits of DEI initiatives in the construction industry include:
There are several ways to enhance diversity and equality in construction for a more robust, creative and stable workforce in the years to come. These five tips encourage more people of all backgrounds to seek job opportunities and improve the culture and working conditions for existing employees.
1. Recruit from Diverse Talent Pools
The key to more representation in the construction workforce is recruiting individuals from all levels of expertise and experience.
According to Kisha Baubsy, Senior Regional DEI Manager at JE Dunn Construction, hiring women and people of color for leadership positions will have the most significant impact, as doing so tends to break down barriers throughout the rest of a company.
2. Establish DEI Policies
Construction businesses looking to enrich diversity should establish and strengthen their DEI efforts. These initiatives may include inclusive company policies, unconscious bias training for employees at all levels and mentorship opportunities for extra support.
Likewise, working alongside a more diverse supply chain—from materials to subcontractors—is another way to foster an equitable, inclusive and welcoming workplace.
3. Implement Zero Tolerance
There’s a reason why female demographics in the construction industry are so low. A report by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research found that a combined 57.6 percent of female construction respondents experienced sexual harassment at least sometimes, frequently or always. A total of 48.32 percent of Hispanic female construction workers responded similarly when it came to racial harassment.
A zero-tolerance policy sends a clear message that discrimination is not allowed under any circumstances, helping create a safer work environment and holding every individual accountable for their actions. Ideally, these policies encourage people from different demographics to enter the sector.
4. Create Benchmarks
Setting DEI metrics over a specific time frame helps construction companies determine where they stand and how to progress toward greater diversity.
For instance, a report by equipment brand Caterpillar shows that 54 percent of its employees under 35 are women or racially and ethnically diverse. Statistics like this enable companies like Caterpillar to make targeted investments and improvements to DEI initiatives.
5. Provide Appropriate Protective Gear
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is notoriously fitted for men in construction, leaving women with ill-fitting clothing and gear. In 2024, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) updated its requirements for construction companies to provide adequate PPE to accommodate different body types, prioritizing comfort and safety on the job. Furnishing the correct PPE beyond standard sizing shows a company values and respects the uniqueness of its workers.
The demand for new construction is high. Yet, without a strong workforce, projects may be prolonged or never come to fruition. We must make it a welcoming industry for all people from all backgrounds.
Want to get started on a construction career pathway that aligns with your interests? Check out CareerStarter! This FREE resource supports job seekers, employers and educators interested in making connections in the construction industry.
