Strategies for Overcoming Stereotypes

Breaking Stereotypes

Let’s explore …

• In-depth analysis of common stereotypes affecting women in construction

• Discussion on how to challenge and overcome these stereotypes

• Networking with successful women in the construction industry

Empowering Women in Construction

Empowering Women in Construction

In-depth analysis of common stereotypes affecting women in construction

Where do these stereotypes come from? They come from challenges at industry level, that need to be solved. Delve into Section 2.1 of FEMCON Reach and Teach Toolkit to find out exactly what challenges are the sources of these stereotypes: https://femalesinconstruction.eu/resources/femcon-inclusion-reach-teach-toolkit/

Empowering Women in Construction

In-depth analysis of common stereotypes affecting women in construction

To summarise the FEMCON Reach and Teach Toolkit, the construction industry has two main challenges in attracting women into the sector: the lack of visible female role models and mentors and public perception. These challenges constantly feed into the creation of stereotypes, but this does not mean they are here to stay. The absence of women in senior management roles has created a lack of female role models, discouraging young women from choosing construction as a career choice and inhibiting their advancement in the industry. Furthermore, recruitment practices that include fair and objective evaluation criteria are needed to fight the stereotypes. Public perception is another significant challenge faced by the construction sector. Many young people are unaware of the opportunities available within the industry and view it as an "old school" and non-diverse field. Mentoring programs can be very effective in supporting women during training and employment but also in spotlighting female role models. In addition, the construction industry needs to position itself more effectively to promote a coherent narrative of the broad range of opportunities available for women. Awareness-building efforts need to start at secondary school level to increase knowledge of the range of jobs available within the sector.

Empowering Women in Construction

Explore stereotypes in action

Georgia is a trainee site engineer and admits people are often surprised when she tells them she works on construction sites. This is due to stereotypes. But that does not mean Georgia doesn’t enjoy her job. In fact, she is inspired to break the stereotypes: https://www.thesun.ie/fabulous/10112593/female-builder-construction-worker-shocked-site-best-job/

Empowering Women in Construction

6 ways to challenge and overcome these stereotypes

1. Advocacy and Awareness: Advocating for women in construction, raising awareness of the challenges they face, and celebrating their successes and contributions to the industry.
2. Education and Training: Providing education and training opportunities for women to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in construction.
3. Recruitment Efforts: Proactively recruiting and promoting women in construction to help break down the stereotypes and create a more diverse workforce.
4. Mentorship Programs: Developing mentorship programs to provide support and guidance for women in construction.
5. Safety Measures: Implementing safety measures and policies to ensure the safety of all workers, regardless of gender.
6. Creating a Supportive Workplace Culture: Encouraging a culture of inclusivity and respect in the workplace and promoting diversity and equality.

Empowering Women in Construction

What can women do to challenge and overcome these stereotypes?

Empowering Women in Construction

What can CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES do to challenge and overcome these stereotypes?

Empowering Women in Construction

What can VOCATIONAL EDUCATORS do to challenge and overcome these stereotypes?

Empowering Women in Construction

What can POLICYMAKERS do to challenge and overcome these stereotypes?

Empowering Women in Construction