07/03/2025
This week has been Women In Construction Week which celebrates and
promotes the role of women in the
construction industry.
Whilst there is a 50:50 balance men and women in the UK’s population, according to statistics, only 15% of the construction workforce is female, and only 2% are in a manual trade.
Some of the key barriers to women entering the construction industry include:
• Gender Stereotypes & Cultural Perceptions – Manual onstruction is a male dominated industry and this can be discouraging for women from considering it as a career.
• Lack of Female Role Models – Few visible women in skilled trade roles can make it harder for women to see themselves working in the industry.
• Workplace Culture & Discrimination – Issues like sexism, harassment, and lack of inclusivity can make the work environment extremely unwelcoming.
• Unconscious Bias in Hiring & Promotion – Employers may knowingly or unknowingly favour male candidates, limiting opportunities for women.
• Lack of Awareness & Career Guidance – Schools and career advisors may not promote construction as a viable career for women.
• Inadequate Facilities – Lack of gender-specific facilities (e.g., toilets, changing rooms) on sites can be a deterrent.
• Limited Mentorship & Networking Opportunities – Fewer professional networks and mentoring schemes tailored for women in construction.
With seemingly fewer and fewer young people coming into construction, it is vital for the industry that we attract as many people as possible.
We hope that by showcasing Lottie’s work, we can help break down some of the barriers that prevent women from pursuing a career in plastering and construction in general.
We would like to thank Steph Leese (The Pink Plasterer) for being our plastering female role model.
