The growth of female employees reflects both industry efforts to address workforce shortages and initiatives aimed at increasing diversity, such as targeted training programs and grants. But much more work needs to be done to provide opportunities as well as safe jobsites for women.

In New York State, the share of women in the construction industry was just 9.6%, according to 2024 US Census data. The total female employment in the construction industry in New York State was 51,755 as compared to total male employment in the construction industry in New York State of 488,744.

Women in Construction Week spotlights the essential roles women play across every level of our industry, explained National Association of Women in Construction President Rita Brown. “Events held during WIC speak directly to the impact women bring to the job sites and workspaces we build; and we build, every day, the communities, careers, and a strong, bold future, that is undeniable,” she said.

In her WIC Week kickoff message, Ms. Brown called on construction professionals to recognize the impact of women across the industry and recommit to building safer, stronger workplaces. Her message emphasized zero tolerance for job site harassment and violence and the shared responsibility to create environments where every worker feels respected and empowered. “Professionalism is not negotiable,” she said.

As construction firms across the nation highlight the accomplishments of their women employees, the Construction Industry Council of Westchester & Hudson Valley, Inc., recognizes the tremendous contributions women make every day in the industry.

“We’re proud to celebrate Women in Construction Week alongside the talented and dedicated women shaping the future of the built environment across Westchester and the Hudson Valley,” said John Cooney, Jr., executive director of the Construction Industry Council of Westchester & Hudson Valley, Inc., “We’re committed to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in our industry. This week and every week we recognize the invaluable contributions of women in every facet of construction, from the jobsite to the boardroom.”

Mr. Cooney added, “We’re honored to support and amplify the voices of women who bring leadership, expertise, innovation and resilience to our region’s projects and workforce. Women play an essential role in the construction industry, and their contributions are vital to the success of any construction project. Together, we’re building stronger communities and a more inclusive industry for all.”

Women in Construction
At-a-Glance

• Women are often involved in project management, working with architects and engineers and overseeing the construction process.

• Women today make up 11.7% of the construction industry workforce compared to 9% of the workforce a decade ago.

• There are more career opportunities and choices today for women, in traditional white-collar and blue-collar jobs and the “new collar” jobs that technology and AI offer.

Women in the construction industry will always face challenges. These range from stereotypes and biases that make it harder for women to gain a foothold and advance in their jobs. They also face physical challenges, as many construction jobs require heavy lifting and long hours of standing and walking.

However, through training and education—along with mentorship programs and promoting accomplishments of women in the industry—essential jobs can be filled and performed by women, who bring their own unique perspectives and skills to the field. Women are helping companies build more diverse, inclusive and successful enterprises.