Women power in construction: Together we unleash potential for growth and innovation
At Valoon GmbH, we see this every day: The construction industry is groaning under the shortage of skilled workers. But we also see a huge opportunity right in front of us: the greater involvement of women in the construction industry! For us, this is not just a matter of quotas, but a real strategy to attract fresh talent and boost our innovative capacity. We firmly believe that mixed teams and modern work practices – naturally supported by our software solutions for better communication and seamless project management – make the difference. In this article, we want to show you what companies can do to inspire more women for the construction industry and support them on their journey. Come along on a discovery journey and see for yourself how your company can benefit.
- The construction industry is facing a skilled labor shortage that can be alleviated by greater involvement of women.
- Mixed teams and modern working methods, supported by software, are the keys to success.
- The article shows concrete measures for companies to attract and support women.
- It examines how companies can benefit from a higher proportion of women.
Why we really need to take the issue of female skilled workers in construction seriously
To truly improve the situation for female skilled workers in construction, we need to look more closely. It’s simply not enough to lament the low proportion of women. We must understand why this is the case, what barriers exist, and what potential remains untapped. Just think of traditional stereotypes, the working conditions, opportunities for further education, or the lack of female role models. The development of the construction industry depends crucially on whether we succeed in creating an environment where all skilled workers feel comfortable – regardless of their gender. Therefore, the integration of women is a key for us for the future of the entire industry.
What we want to show you in this article: Challenges, opportunities, and real solutions
Our goal is to provide you with concrete ideas and solutions so we can sustainably increase the proportion of female skilled workers together. We will look at the challenges that women still face today – from old clichés to the difficult balance between work and family. But we will also show you the many opportunities that arise when more women pitch in: less skilled labor shortage, more innovation, and a better company culture. Finally, we will present you with proven strategies and initiatives that can turn your company into a magnet for women in the construction industry female talent and actively shape the future of the construction industry. Women in construction: What does it really look like? Numbers and factsFrauen am Bau: Wie sieht’s wirklich aus? Zahlen und Fakten
Before we dive deeper into the discussion, let’s take a look at the facts when it comes to women in the construction industry women in construction. The statistics tell a clear story: Women are still significantly outnumbered in many areas of the construction industry, even though we know how valuable their contribution is for all of us. The exact numbers vary depending on the job and region, but the trend is clear: We urgently need to act to attract more women for the construction industry women and provide them with better career opportunities. These numbers are not just dry data for us, but a real wake-up call to change the trends in the construction industry and actively shape them.
So how many women really work in construction?
The official numbers are sobering: In Germany, in the entire construction sector, it’s only about 14%. This clearly shows us that female skilled workers, especially in trades, are still a rarity. When we compare this with other industries, where women often make up half or more of the workforce, the construction industry is clearly lagging behind. This difference also clearly highlights the huge untapped potential that exists in female skilled workers and how important it is to make construction jobs more attractive for women. Where exactly can we find female skilled workers in this sector?
Interestingly, female skilled workers are not equally represented everywhere. In architecture and planning, for example, women are really involved – studies show that they make up over 50% of the workforce here! There is also progress in civil engineering: The proportion of female students has risen to about 30%. This is a great signal, even if it is not fully reflected in practice yet. Unfortunately, it looks very different in skilled trades, such as in building construction or civil engineering. There, women are
Interessanterweise sind weibliche Fachkräfte nicht überall gleich stark vertreten. In der Architektur und Planung zum Beispiel, da mischen Frauen richtig mit – Studien zeigen, dass sie hier teilweise über 50 % der Beschäftigten ausmachen! Auch im Bauingenieurwesen tut sich was: Der Anteil weiblicher Studierender ist auf etwa 30 % gestiegen. Das ist ein tolles Signal, auch wenn es sich in der Berufspraxis noch nicht ganz so widerspiegelt. Ganz anders sieht es leider in den handwerklichen Berufen aus, also im Hoch- oder Tiefbau. Da sind women in the construction industry often true outliers with shares frequently below 2%. This unequal distribution shows us that we need different measures for the various areas of the construction industry to achieve a better balance.
- Architecture and planning: Here, the proportion of women is often above 50% – this shows how great the interest is in creative and conceptual tasks in the construction sector.
- Civil engineering: The number of female students is increasing (about 30%), but we need to get better at bringing them into companies, especially in the private sector.
- Skilled trades: Women are extremely underrepresented here, with less than 2%. This indicates deep-seated stereotypes and real barriers.
What’s causing this? The reasons for the shortage of women in construction
The fact that so few women in the construction industry work here is no coincidence. A whole range of reasons lies behind it. If we really want to change something, we need to understand these causes in detail. This ranges from old traditions to everyday problems at the workplace – the reasons are diverse and we need to take a close look at them. Recognizing these barriers is the first step to sustainably strengthen diversity in construction and to provide more female skilled workers with great career opportunities.
- Deeply rooted stereotypes: Historically, the construction industry has been seen as a men’s world, which influences the career choices of young women.
- Challenges in balancing work and family: Long working hours, rigid project schedules, and frequent changes of work location make balancing work and family difficult.
- Lack of flexibility and support: A lack of flexible working models and insufficient childcare options exacerbate the situation for women.
Old customs and stereotypes: The historical roots
Let’s be honest, the construction industry has always been seen as a man’s world, and these old ideas run deep. Did you know that women in West Germany were only officially allowed to work in construction since 1994? Such historical restrictions have undoubtedly shaped gender roles that label construction jobs as typically male. These stereotypes influence the careers young people choose and lead to fewer girls and young women envisioning a future in construction . Breaking down these old patterns is one of our most important tasks to open the industry to female talent and ensure that women in the construction industry they naturally belong.
Family and construction site – often a balancing act for women
A very important point for the shortage of female skilled workers is the often tricky question: How do I balance family and job? Long workdays, firm project timelines, and constantly being on different construction sites – this is a real challenge, especially for women with children or other family responsibilities. When there is also a lack of flexible working hours, little childcare available, and the company culture hardly takes personal circumstances into account, it’s no wonder that many qualified women leave the construction industry or never even enter it. We urgently need new ideas here to advance the transformation of the construction industry in terms of work models.More than just fair: Why your construction company benefits from hiring women
Bringing in more women to the construction industry is not just a matter of fairness for us. It brings concrete economic advantages for companies! A diverse team simply thinks broader, finds better solutions to problems, and can really kickstart a company’s innovative power. And let’s be honest: given the looming skilled labor shortage, it is only wise to finally tap into the huge potential of female workers. This is a strategic necessity for the future of the entire construction industry. Unternehmen, die jetzt aktiv auf women in the construction industry women shows that they are modern and attractive.
Skilled labor shortage? Women are part of the solution!
The skilled labor shortage is slowly but surely becoming a real threat to our construction industry. Experts estimate that we could be missing up to 100,000 skilled workers by 2030! Female skilled workers represent a huge, often untapped potential. If we actively engage them, provide attractive working conditions and development opportunities, we can attract female talent and close this gap. Promoting female talent actively helps us stay competitive and handle future construction projects. This is an investment that pays off not just in human resources, but also economically, as studies show.
More diversity, more innovation: Fresh wind from women in construction
It’s proven: Mixed teams are often more creative and deliver better results. Female skilled workers often bring different ways of thinking, different experiences, and new approaches to solving problems that make us more innovative. Their perspectives can scrutinize entrenched processes and help improve workflows. Studies show that companies with more women tend to be more economically successful. If the construction industry focuses on more female talent by 2025 and beyond, it strengthens its innovative capacity and can better adapt to the changing market demands. And on top of that, we may also understand the needs of female clients and users of buildings better.
The main advantages at a glance when more women are involved:
When we women in the construction industry actively support women, it brings a lot of benefits:
- Less worry about skilled workers: We tap into a large talent pool and secure the people we need for future projects.
- More innovation power: Diverse teams are simply more creative and bring fresh ideas into old processes.
- Better image: Companies that embrace diversity are seen as modern, attractive, and responsible – this resonates well with customers.
Let’s tackle it: How companies can attract more women to construction
If we want to see more women in the construction industry women in construction, companies, schools, universities, and associations need to work together. It’s about creating good conditions, throwing old clichés overboard, and actively promoting women. We companies play a very important role: We must create an open, welcoming culture and actively recruit female talent. For us, promoting female talent is a real investment in the future of the construction industry. future and in our own competitiveness. By the way: Our software solutions here at Valoon GmbH can help by simplifying communication and documentation. This makes workflows more flexible and transparent – often a crucial requirement for better balancing job and family.
- Early enthusiasm of girls for technical professions and breaking down stereotypes.
- Creating better working conditions, especially flexible working models to balance work and family.
- Establishing a respectful and inclusive corporate culture.
- Actively promoting women in leadership positions and implementing clear measures against discrimination.
Inspiring girls for technology: Start early!
Choosing a career, perhaps also as a woman in the construction industry, often happens at a young age. That’s why it’s crucial to inspire girls early for technical professions and break down typical stereotypes in career choices. Mentoring programs featuring successful women from the construction industry as role models can really make a difference. Even internships or project days at construction companies provide insight and can spark curiosity. Initiatives like Girls’ Day are a wonderful way to show young women how diverse jobs in construction are and motivate them for a career as a woman in the construction industry construction professional.
Better working conditions: So that job and family fit
Good working conditions are essential to women for the construction industry attract and retain female talent in the long term. This includes flexible hours and the possibility to work remotely whenever possible. Companies can also score with offers like on-site childcare or support in caring for relatives. A company culture that actively supports balancing job and personal life is invaluable. This shows potential female applicants: Hey, as a woman in the construction industry woman, you are welcome here and your needs are taken seriously! The development of the construction industry construction sector must set new standards here.
A culture where everyone feels comfortable – especially women
An open corporate culture where everyone truly feels valued and respected is the foundation for diversity to thrive. This means raising awareness among all employees on the topic of equality and actively breaking down prejudices against female skilled workers. Promoting women in leadership positions is just as important as having clear rules and measures against discrimination and sexual harassment in the workplace. Companies that foster such a culture will not only be more attractive to female talent but will also benefit overall from a better working atmosphere and more satisfied employees. Our commitment to diversity women in the construction industry definitely pays off!Strong women, strong industry: Role models that inspire courage
Nothing motivates as much as real success stories! When young women see what others women in the construction industry have achieved, it can be incredibly inspiring. Portraits of women who are successful in various jobs – from the construction site to the top management level – show how many opportunities there are and help dispel fears. These role models are the best proof: With commitment, skills, and a bit of determination, you can open doors and make a significant impact. Their experiences and tips are invaluable for young talents and help us positively change the image of the industry and strengthen the woman in the construction industry richtig was bewegen. Ihre Erfahrungen und Tipps sind Gold wert für junge Talente und helfen uns, das Bild der Branche positiv zu verändern und die diversity in construction proportion of women.
From civil engineer to CEO: Women power in action
The job opportunities for female skilled workers are enormous: female civil engineers manage huge projects, female architects design the houses of tomorrow, female foremen oversee everything on the construction site, and female managing directors successfully run entire construction companies. Each of these professionals has paved their own way, overcoming obstacles and celebrating successes. Their stories, shared through initiatives like this, provide encouragement and demonstrate: A career in construction can be deeply fulfilling and offer great opportunities! It’s essential to showcase this diversity to convey an honest and attractive image of the modern construction industry construction sector.
What successful women advise young talents
When you ask successful women from the construction industry women, they often give similar advice to young women: Be confident and believe in yourself! Seek out mentors who will support and encourage you. Build a strong network – within your company and beyond. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and keep learning. And most importantly: Don’t let old stereotypes hold you back! The construction industry urgently needs qualified and committed people – and women in the construction industry women are a vital part of that. Seize the opportunities presented by the current trends in the construction industry! Together we are strong: What politics and associations can do for women in constructionGemeinsam stark: Was Politik und Verbände für Frauen am Bau tun können
Not only are we companies called upon – politics and associations also play a crucial role in attracting more women for the construction industry female talent. They can design laws that support women, create funding programs, and promote initiatives that ensure more gender fairness. For real and lasting change to happen and to make construction professions more attractive for women, everyone must work together. If it is recognized from the top how important women in the construction industry female workers are, it sends a strong signal and can accelerate the change. The development of the construction industry path towards more diversity is a shared responsibility for us all.
What the government can do: Laws and funding
Laws, for example, on equality or improving the balance between work and family, can provide important incentives. Special funding programs for female skilled workers – whether for further education, starting their own business, or reintegrating after maternity leave – are incredibly helpful. Here, politicians must take the right steps to ensure that equal opportunity is not just a nice term, but truly lived. Information on such programs is often available from ministries or industry associations. Interested female talents should definitely take advantage of these opportunities!
What associations can contribute: Networks and know-how
Industry associations like the German Construction Industry Association (HDB) or the Central Association of the German Construction Industry (ZDB) can be real drivers in promoting the issue of female skilled workers. They organize networking events (like the Women’s Network in Construction), launch information campaigns, and develop practical guides for companies – that’s a valuable contribution! They can spread the message and raise awareness of the advantages of having more women involved. For companies that women in the construction industry want to promote this, collaborating with these associations is often a true win and helps secure the future of the construction industry. future of female talent.Looking ahead: How digitalization and sustainability open new doors for women in construction
Die construction industry The construction industry is currently undergoing a major transformation! New technologies, especially digitalization, and a greater awareness of sustainability are completely changing our jobs and working methods. These developments present a huge opportunity to make construction more attractive for women. attractive to women and to open new career paths for them. Less of the pure grunt work and more planning, control, and high-tech – this shift can help break down old barriers and bring in more diversity. At Valoon GmbH, we are convinced that digitalization is a key to making workflows simpler and more accessible, which particularly women in the construction industry benefits women.
Digitalization: A real opportunity for women in construction!
Digitalization is reshaping the landscape on construction sites and in the office. Building Information Modeling (BIM), drones, robots, and cloud-based project management software like our Valoon platform make heavy physical labor less frequent. Instead, digital skills and intelligence are in high demand. These new job profiles could appeal to many more individuals and open up job fields that are not so strongly influenced by old male stereotypes. The women for the construction industry ansprechen und Berufsfelder eröffnen, die nicht so stark von alten Männerklischees geprägt sind. Die ease of use and increased efficiency through digital tools can also help make working hours more flexible. This greatly facilitates the balancing act between job and family for female skilled workers. The transformation of the construction industry transformation is truly underway!
Why diversity is crucial for tomorrow’s success
If we want to master the big challenges of the future – from climate change to demographic shifts to the shortage of skilled workers skills shortage – the construction industry needs the best minds and many different perspectives. Female skilled workers are a vital part of this solution! A diverse team is more innovative, resilient, and better at solving complex problems. Companies that are actively promoting female talent today are not just investing in equality but are securing a real competitive advantage for the construction industry by 2025 and beyond. It’s about creating an environment where all talents can truly thrive.
What we can do concretely to attract more women to construction:
To sustainably increase the proportion of women in the construction industry female skilled workers, we need to act now:
- Targeted support for young talents: Inspire girls and young women early for technical professions and break down clichés in career choices.
- Offer flexible working models: Create part-time options, remote work, and flexible hours so job and family can better align.
- Build networks and mentoring: Support female skilled workers through programs like this and in-house mentoring.
Our conclusion: Women in construction – a win for everyone and your company!
For us, it is clear: Bringing more women to the construction industry women into the construction industry is not just a nice gesture. It is absolutely crucial for the future and the innovative capacity of our entire sector! The numbers show that we still have some catching up to do, but the opportunities that arise from more women power are enormous – from combating the skilled labor shortage to increased creativity and productivity. We all – companies, politics, and educational institutions – must work together to discard old gender roles, create great working conditions, and actively support female talent. Digitalization and the trend towards more sustainable construction open entirely new doors and create jobs that can be particularly exciting for female skilled workers.
At Valoon GmbH, we want to actively shape this change. With our project management and communication software, we help make work processes simpler and collaboration more efficient. This can help break down barriers for female skilled workers and enable more flexible working models. For us, it is clear: Investing in diversity is investing in your own success. Utilize the huge potential that female talent brings to make your company fit for the future and contribute to a modern, strong construction industry! Discover how you can not only confront the women in the construction industry skilled labor shortage, but also boost your innovative capacity. Contact us today to find out how our solutions can help you create a more open and efficient working environment. Request your personalized consultation now and shape the Fachkräftemangel die Stirn bieten, sondern auch Ihre Innovationskraft beflügeln können. Melden Sie sich noch heute bei uns, um zu erfahren, wie unsere Lösungen Ihnen helfen können, ein offeneres und effizienteres Arbeitsumfeld zu schaffen. Fordern Sie jetzt Ihre individuelle Beratung an und gestalten Sie mit uns die future of construction.
Why should my construction company actively try to hire more women?
Actively recruiting women helps your company fight the urgent skills shortage, as women represent a huge, often untapped potential. Moreover, mixed teams bring fresh perspectives and innovative power, which boosts your company’s problem-solving ability and competitiveness significantly..
What are the biggest hurdles for women in the construction industry and how can my company help?
Some of the biggest hurdles include outdated gender roles, the difficult balance of work and family due to rigid working hours and the lack of female role models. Your company can help by offering flexible working models, an appreciative and inclusive company culture as well as the Promotion of mentoring programs actively counteract.
How can technology, such as project management software, make the construction industry more attractive for women?
Modern software like that from Valoon simplifies the communication and data collection significantly, for example, through well-known messaging services. This reduces administrative efforts and enables more flexible work arrangements and makes construction jobs less location-bound. This makes the industry more accessible and family-friendly, which is particularly attractive to women.
What initial concrete steps can my company take to attract more female applicants?
Revise your job postings to be gender-neutral, actively highlight flexible work options and development opportunities . Present female employees as role models on your career page and collaborate with schools or initiatives to inspire girls early on for careers in construction.
In which construction professions are women already successful or where are opportunities growing?
Women have traditionally been well-represented in architecture and planning (often over 50%). In civil engineering the proportion of female graduates is rising (around 30%). Additionally, digitalization is creating new, less physically demanding job profiles in project control, BIM management, and IT, which offer excellent opportunities for women. .
How does a higher proportion of women affect the image and success of my company?
A higher proportion of women significantly improves your employer image and makes you more attractive to talent. Studies show that diverse teams are more innovative and economically successful . Additionally, you can better understand and meet the needs of a more diverse clientele. .
What is the current proportion of women in the German construction industry?
Currently, the proportion of women in the entire German construction sector is around 14%. In the main construction industry, meaning in core construction jobs, it is even only about 11%, and in skilled vocational training occupations, often below 5%. There is still significant potential..
What networks or initiatives support women in the construction industry in Germany?
There are various valuable networks and initiatives. A well-known example is the “FrauenNetzwerk-Bau” of the main association of the German construction industry, which offers mentoring, workshops, and exchange opportunities. Regional initiatives and corporate programs also provide important support..
