Creating a More Inclusive Construction Industry. As we celebrate Women’s Month this August, it’s a time to reflect on the strides we’ve made in the workplace, especially in industries where women have historically been underrepresented, such as construction. This industry, often regarded as a male-dominated sector, presents both challenges and opportunities for gender inclusion.
While we’ve seen progress in gender equality, women still account for approximately 14% of the workforce in South Africa’s construction industry. In this article, we explore the progress made, challenges faced, and ways to create a more inclusive and diverse construction industry in South Africa.
Gender Representation in Construction
Globally, women hold about 12% of construction management roles. In South Africa, only 13% of graduates in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are women. These figures underscore the potential for growth and diversification within the South African construction sector. By addressing the gender gap, the industry can tap into a broader talent pool, contributing to innovation, growth, and overall performance.
Power of Diversity in Construction
Working in the construction industry has allowed me to witness firsthand how diversity drives positive change. One of the most important lessons is that the shift towards inclusion doesn’t just benefit women, it benefits the entire industry.
Research shows that diverse teams are 25% more likely to outperform in terms of innovation and output. When both men and women are involved in various roles such as designing, planning, supervising, and working on construction sites, new perspectives emerge, enhancing everything from safety measures to client relations.
In South Africa, we are already seeing signs of change. A noteworthy example is the increasing number of women joining the digital engineering and site-technology sectors. About 60% of recruits in these fields are women, demonstrating that when barriers are removed, women can thrive in construction.
Importance of Gender-Specific PPE in Construction
A significant barrier for women in construction has been the lack of properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE). This issue is not just about comfort; it’s a safety concern. Ill-fitting PPE creates real risks for women working on construction sites, affecting their productivity and engagement. Gender-specific PPE is one solution that enhances both safety and confidence.
In South Africa, the introduction of gender-specific safety gear has proven to be beneficial. Women working in environments with properly tailored PPE feel more valued and protected, which builds trust and increases productivity. This small but essential change makes a significant difference in their ability to perform their jobs safely and effectively.
Shifting Mindsets for Greater Inclusion
The key to building a more inclusive construction industry lies in changing mindsets. In the past, the narrative surrounding women in construction was often that they belonged in office settings rather than on-site. However, this perception is shifting as more women prove their capability on construction sites.
Steps to Move the Industry Forward
- Normalise Women in On-Site Roles and Leadership Positions
The visibility of women in decision-making roles is crucial. When women are seen in leadership positions, it sends a powerful message that success is defined by ability, not appearance. By normalising women on-site and in management roles, we can show that everyone, regardless of gender, can contribute meaningfully to the construction industry. - Redesign Systems with Women in Mind
It’s essential to create systems that are tailored to the unique needs of women in construction. For example, mentorship programmes designed for women, flexible work options for parents, and gender-inclusive PPE can all make a difference. Small adjustments in how we design work systems can significantly impact recruitment and retention, especially among younger generations of women, including millennials and Gen Z. - Equip Leaders with Data
Having access to data is one of the most effective ways to drive change. Leaders in the construction industry need clear, evidence-based insights that show how diversity impacts safety, productivity, and financial performance. At Databuild, we provide such data, helping organisations realise that inclusive teams are not only more ethical but also better-performing teams. - Make Inclusion Part of the Core Business
Diversity and inclusion should be embedded in every aspect of a construction company’s operations. From recruitment and training to contract terms and safety standards, inclusion should not be a separate line item but a core part of the business strategy. By setting clear diversity goals and tracking progress, companies can ensure that they’re moving toward a more inclusive workforce.
Why Inclusion in Construction Matters
According to an Ipsos survey on International Women’s Day 2025, more than half of people agreed that organisations perform better when women occupy senior leadership roles. This sentiment is gaining traction across various sectors, and it’s time for the construction industry to embrace it. A gender-diverse workforce leads to better decision-making, more creative problem-solving, and a safer, more inclusive work environment.
Building Momentum for Change
In honour of Women’s Month, we must not only celebrate the contributions of South African women in the construction industry but also take meaningful action to drive further change. As we reflect on the progress made, it’s crucial to ask ourselves: “What are we doing to change who builds our cities?”
Leadership teams must actively work to break down barriers, redesign systems, and measure what matters. By fostering a more inclusive environment, we can make progress visible and tangible, contributing to the growth of a more diverse and successful construction industry in South Africa.
Steps to Building Momentum
- Leadership Commitment: Strong commitment from leadership teams to diversity and inclusion is essential. Leaders must champion gender equality and ensure that diversity goals are part of the company’s core mission.
- Inclusive Training Programs: Offering training that includes topics on gender sensitivity, inclusive leadership, and the benefits of diversity can help shift attitudes at all levels of the workforce.
- Celebrating Milestones: Celebrating milestones, such as the recruitment of women into leadership roles or the successful implementation of gender-specific PPE, helps to reinforce the importance of diversity.
- Open Communication: It’s essential to maintain open lines of communication. Organisations should regularly share progress updates, challenges, and solutions to keep diversity at the forefront of every conversation.
Conclusion
Let this Women’s Month serve as a reminder that while progress has been made, much remains to be done. By shifting assumptions, redesigning systems, and focusing on what truly matters, we can build a more inclusive construction industry in South Africa. When we open the door to diverse voices, we can unlock the full potential of the industry and shape a future that reflects the best of what South Africa has to offer.
