Women in Construction: Breaking Barriers & Building the Future

Construction remains male-dominated: just 12.8% of the UK workforce is female (Construction News). Yet with a severe skills shortage and half the population untapped, bringing more women on site is critical. Women excel in precision, problem-solving and leadership—skills that underpin every successful project.

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Why We Need More Women on Site

As major infrastructure and housing schemes ramp up across the UK, skilled labour is scarce. Encouraging women into construction not only addresses the shortage but also drives diversity, innovation and stronger safety culture. Roles span design, project management, specialist trades and leadership—there’s a place for every talent.

Barriers & Solutions

Women face misconceptions, lack of role models and inflexible training. To remove these barriers:

• Showcase female leaders—like Jane Nelson, Lifetime Achievement Award winner—who began as apprentices and now direct major firms.
• Offer flexible, online training (CSCS Card, SSSTS, SMSTS) so qualifications fit around family and other commitments.
• Run outreach programmes in schools and colleges to present construction as a high-tech, inclusive career.

Career Paths Beyond Bricklaying

Construction offers far more than manual labour. Women excel in:

• Architecture & Engineering: designing tomorrow’s landmarks
• Project Management & Site Supervision: overseeing complex programmes
• Specialist Trades: carpentry, stonemasonry, painting with precision
• Health & Safety & Compliance: leading risk assessment and legislation

Each role starts with a CSCS Green Card—your gateway to all site work.

How to Get Started

Secure your CSCS Card in three steps:

1. Complete the Level 1 Award in Health & Safety in a Construction Environment—100% online with instant results.
2. Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test—45-minute touchscreen exam.
3. Apply for your CSCS Green Labourer Card—£30 application processed for you.

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Real-World Female Pioneers

Historically, women shaped major projects: Emily Warren Roebling led the Brooklyn Bridge completion in the 19th century, and Zaha Hadid revolutionised global architecture. Their legacy proves that women belong and thrive in construction.

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