It is thought that the number of women in construction jobs has been increasing over recent years. There has been a gender gap in professions such as construction and other manual labour careers. The stigma around these types of careers is that they are predominantly male jobs, this is due to the overall gender bias and the lack of encouragement for women to enter this sector. Some women often feel intimidated by the idea of progressing into the industry even though they feel as if it would be a fantastic career choice for them. Luckily, there has been change and companies are trying hard to recruit more women and create more diverse work forces. However, there must be more done.
Despite the gender biases, women are stepping up and entering the sector.
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Construction Has a Great Variety of Roles
There are around 3 million people in the UK who are employed in the construction industry. There are a huge variety of roles. This means there are options depending on your preferences. Here are a few of the different types of construction jobs out there:
- Architects
- Surveyors
- Site supervisors
- Site managers
- Craft roles
- Technical roles
Craft roles can include wood, exterior and interior roles.
There is such a diverse range of occupations that both men and women can find job roles that suit them best. Not only are there hands on roles, but also behind the scenes roles and the progression of managerial roles. Women want to be a part of this growing industry, it does not place limits on them like other, office-based roles. Therefore, the construction industry Is very desirable.
There Are Fantastic Training Opport
unities
There are courses that provide those within the construction industry or hoping to gain entry into a construction job, in a variety of areas. These are affordable options which mean that individuals do not necessarily have to attend university and take out large student loans. The industry is very progressive so with some qualifications from a course and experience, you can be in a great position to develop and progress up the career ladder. There are quantity surveyor courses, structural engineering and more.
Further, training usually involves hands-on work which is more suitable for those who learn best by doing.
Once within the construction industry and having worked many years, there are options to develop into managerial positions such as a site manager.
These training opportunities are far more rewarding than other jobs such as office jobs and retail.
Construction Jobs Offer Great Salaries
Construction is one of the highest paying sectors in the UK. The average salary for construction is £43,000. It ranges from starting roles of £18,000 and managerial roles of 50k+. This means that it is a great industry to get into with fantastic progressions.
Every Day Is Different
One reason, amongst a huge number of others for women entering construction is that every day is new and different. With a construction job, you do not have one task in an office all day. You are also not stuck inside. You have the benefits of working outdoors and overcoming challenges on a daily basis. It is a role that is not like anything else. It is such a huge industry that you are able to transfer into a different job role if you think it would be more suited to you.
Conclusion
Many women are beginning to enter the industry and there are a wide range of organisations that help to support women in finding their ideal construction job. However, there is still an unequal balance and this needs to be challenged. Stepping up into an industry that you love, not what society says you should be doing is a powerful action and encouraging others to do the same is what should be spread worldwide.
