As we celebrate Women in Construction Week, the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) brings to light critical research underscoring the urgent need for an inclusive and diverse construction industry. This research, pivotal for the industry’s growth, was conducted online with 1,500 members of the Angus Reid Forum, providing a comprehensive view of Canadians’ perceptions regarding construction’s workforce diversity.

Key findings from this insightful research reveal:

• A majority (69%) of respondents believe a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce is essential for the construction industry’s prosperity.
• A significant portion (73% of women and 57% of men) agree that more efforts are needed to attract and retain women in construction.
• Most respondents (68%) feel that women’s representation in leadership roles is crucial for driving industry change, with a staggering 91% advocating for equal pay for women in construction.

Lisa Laronde, President of CAWIC, emphasized the research’s message: the construction industry must intensify its commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive environment. With women making up about 5% of on-site workers and 12% of the industry’s entire workforce, there is a clear call to action for attracting more women to construction and supporting their career advancement.

Creating a culture of inclusion, offering supportive and flexible work environments, and providing fulfilling career opportunities are steps CAWIC identifies as essential. Moreover, the organization stresses the importance of men being allies to women in the industry, encouraging growth, progress, and sponsorship.

Lisa Laronde’s call to action is clear: “The time is now for all of us to take collaborative action that will advance our industry and workers across the construction landscape.”

CAWIC, as the national not-for-profit leader for women in the Canadian construction industry, is at the forefront of advocating for change. By connecting, supporting, and uniting women across the industry, CAWIC continues to be a pivotal voice for progress, pushing for a construction sector where diversity is celebrated, and opportunities are accessible to everyone.

As the industry looks to the future, the insights provided by CAWIC’s research serve as a foundation for building a more inclusive, equitable, and thriving construction industry in Canada.

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