New Zealand’s construction industry is undergoing an exciting transformation. In the past, it was mostly men who took up roles in this field. But now, more and more women are joining their ranks, bringing fresh perspectives and skills. This change is crucial, both culturally and strategically, as the industry expands.
Overview of Female Participation in Construction
Women’s involvement in the construction industry in New Zealand has seen remarkable growth over the last decade. The number of women in the sector has nearly doubled, reaching an impressive 40,000, which is about 14% of the overall construction workforce. Although this is a significant improvement, it highlights that about 86% of the industry still comprises male workers.
In trades, the difference is more apparent. Only around 3% of construction employees are women. This stark statistic shows that the construction sector could benefit from a wealth of untapped talent. Given the industry’s booming status and the high demand for skilled workers, attracting more women to these roles is essential.
Organizations Supporting Women
Several organizations in New Zealand are dedicated to boosting female participation in construction, each playing a pivotal role in this transformation.
**The Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO)** is setting ambitious goals to reshape gender distribution in trades. They aim to have women make up 30% of construction trades roles by 2040 and target having 10% of their apprentices be women by 2025. These targets reflect a focused effort towards inclusivity.
**The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)** is another important player, providing vital support to women at various stages of their careers in construction. They offer networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and resources specifically designed to empower women in the industry.
**The Diversity in Construction initiative** works in collaboration with Diversity Works New Zealand. This partnership seeks to create a roadmap for enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the industry, promoting a more balanced workforce.
**Women in Trades** is an additional organization striving to increase female representation in construction. Their efforts are instrumental in challenging the status quo and creating pathways for women to thrive in the sector.
Opportunities in the Construction Field
For women considering a career in construction in New Zealand, the industry offers numerous enticing opportunities and benefits.
The financial prospects are notably promising. Women who complete apprenticeships can expect to earn significantly more compared to their university-educated counterparts. This earning potential highlights the appealing financial rewards of entering the trades.
Furthermore, job security is a significant advantage. With the industry experiencing robust growth and several large government projects announced, the demand for skilled construction workers is high. This environment provides stability and numerous career progression opportunities for women.
Major development projects present abundant possibilities. Initiatives such as the Canterbury and Christchurch earthquake rebuilds, Wellington earthquake strengthening, and the $12 billion New Zealand Upgrade Programme are creating jobs. The KiwiBuild programme and the construction of 8,000 new state houses also offer avenues for women to establish rewarding careers in construction.
Addressing Challenges for Women in the Sector
While there is significant progress, challenges remain in increasing women’s participation in the construction industry. To attract and retain female talent, collaborative strategies are crucial. Employers need to make the industry more welcoming and adaptable so women not only enter but also stay and advance within these roles.
One vital aspect is fostering industry-wide culture change. Focusing solely on women isn’t enough. A systemic approach, embracing all workers, is necessary. By creating inclusive environments where everyone feels valued, companies can foster a culture that supports diverse talent.
Adopting inclusive workplace practices is key. Companies are increasingly implementing practices to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, feels included and supported. This cultural transformation benefits all employees and significantly impacts industry growth.
Focus on Māori Women in Construction
The representation of Māori women in construction is receiving special attention. Specific initiatives aim to encourage more Māori women to join the industry, acknowledging the intersection of gender and cultural diversity.
Research into the experiences of Māori women in construction is underway, with the objective of inspiring more to consider a career in this field. These initiatives not only aim to increase the number of Māori women but also enrich the industry with diverse perspectives and experiences.
Conclusion
The growing involvement of women in New Zealand’s construction industry is having a profound impact. Their participation is not just about addressing workforce shortages. It brings diverse perspectives, enhances innovation, and improves problem-solving outcomes, contributing to the sector’s overall growth and transformative change.
As barriers continue to fall and pathways for women are strengthened, the future of New Zealand’s construction industry looks bright. Women are shaping its evolution, providing dynamic solutions to its challenges, and enhancing its potential in unprecedented ways. For more information on New Zealand’s evolving construction landscape, visit our site at dailyread.co.nz.
