The building trades have been primarily male-dominated. However, recent years have witnessed a concerted effort to diversify and provide opportunities for women.
Organizations such as TradesFutures and the North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) are at the forefront of efforts to create inclusive environments and provide robust support systems for women entering the construction industry. These initiatives are not just about meeting diversity quotas; they are about tapping into an extensive pool of talent and reshaping the construction industry for the better.
Empowering through apprenticeship readiness programs
TradesFutures, a nonprofit known for its dedication to assisting women, has been influential in promoting gender diversity within the building trades. The organization’s 225 Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) Apprenticeship Readiness Programs have served as a gateway for thousands of women to enter the construction trades. From 2016 to 2023, 21% of the participants in these programs were women, a significant achievement in an industry where female representation has been historically low.
The numbers speak volumes about the impact of TradesFutures’ initiatives. In 2016, women made up 25% of the 920 participants. Although there has been some fluctuation, the commitment to gender diversity remains resolute. In 2023, women constituted 19% of the 5,485 participants, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain and increase female involvement despite challenges.
Female-focused programs: leading the change
TradesFutures supports several women-focused ARPs, including Women in Skilled Trades (WIST), Women in Nontraditional Careers (WINC), and Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT). These programs provide targeted training, mentorship, and support, addressing the unique challenges women face in the industry.
These programs are complemented by other regional initiatives, such as the Rising Sun Center for Opportunity in Oakland, CA, which runs all-women cohorts; Women in Non-Traditional Employment Roles (WINTER) in Los Angeles, CA; and Utah Women in Trades in West Jordan, UT.
TradesFutures also hosts a Child Care Pilot Program partnered with EmpowHer and NEW. The aim is to provide childcare solutions to support mothers as they pursue careers in construction. By addressing one of the most significant obstacles to workforce participation, TradesFutures is making it easier for women to balance family responsibilities with career ambitions.
NABTU’s commitment to diversity and inclusion
NABTU’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in its wide range of initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive construction industry. Their efforts go beyond just increasing numbers; they focus on creating an environment where women and other underrepresented groups can thrive. NABTU’S Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives, launched in January 2022, underscore their dedication to these goals.
These initiatives include partnerships with organizations like TradesFutures to provide comprehensive support to women entering the trades. By collaborating with programs that focus on women, veterans, and justice-involved individuals, NABTU ensures that their reach is broad and impactful. Their work with the Helmets to Hardhats program, for example, demonstrates a commitment to supporting veterans, including female veterans, in transitioning to civilian careers in construction.
Additionally, NABTU hosts the Tradeswomen Build Nations (TWBN) Conference. The conference attracts close to 5,000 tradeswomen, providing an unparalleled opportunity for networking, professional development, and community within the building trades.
TradesFutures and NABTU are paving the way for a more inclusive future within the building trades. The success of these programs is evident in the growing number of women participating in apprenticeship readiness programs and the increasing recognition of the importance of gender diversity in the construction sector. The commitment of TradesFutures and NABTU to diversity and inclusion ensures that the future of construction is one where skill is recognized and valued, regardless of gender.
