The week of March 1st was dubbed National Women in Construction Week by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). It served as an initiative to not only celebrate women in construction, but spread the word about this viable career opportunity.
Construction continues to be a male-dominated field. The NAWIC is seeking to change this by educating women about the vast opportunities in the construction industry. Throughout the United States, events were held to celebrate women in construction and the strides that can still be made for the industry to have more female representation. Various media reports highlighted networking events and award ceremonies that were held in cities across the country -- from Sioux Falls, SD to Columbus, Ohio.
The number of women working in construction is on the rise. According to the NAWIC, women represented 1,106,919 workers in the construction industry in 2018 which is up from the 807,000 in 2010.
As Baby Boomers retire there is a growing need for construction workers in all trades and women are being sought to help fill the gaps.
One of the best ways for women to learn the in-demand skills needed for the construction industry is by entering a registered apprenticeship program. These are programs that combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training.
Apprentices learn from experienced tradesmen and tradeswomen while they receive great pay and benefits beginning their first day on the job.
During and after completing a registered apprenticeship program, women earn the same wage and benefits as their male peers who have equal experience. With a collective bargaining agreement, gender is never a factor.
For more information about a registered apprenticeship program in the construction trades, fill out the form below!
