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A career choice for women

A career choice for women/ female construction worker

Historically, there was a prevailing perception that the construction industry was predominantly tailored for men. However, this perspective has undergone a transformation and is still evolving as the construction sector becomes increasingly recognised as a viable career option for individuals of all genders. Despite persistent gender disparities in employment within the field, certain roles and work environments in the construction industry offer more favourable opportunities for women. This article aims to provide a concise exploration of the working conditions experienced by female construction workers and to delve into the outlook for women within this dynamic and evolving industry.

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Responsibilities of female construction workers

When considering career options, women have a diverse range of specializations from which to choose within the construction industry. While they can pursue various construction-related roles, it is noteworthy that a significant number of women tend to gravitate towards office-based positions.

In the realm of female workers in construction, tradeswomen constitute a modest percentage of the industry’s female workforce. The construction sector itself is bifurcated into residential and non-residential categories, with the latter further divided into heavy industrial, institutional commercial and engineering subsectors.

Each of these specialised areas entails distinct responsibilities and skill sets, yet there exists common ground across them. Opportunities abound for women to engage in eco-friendly projects, contribute to green building methods, participate in hydroelectric endeavours, contribute to the creation of state-of-the-art entertainment complexes, and collaborate on the construction of impressive bridges, among other ventures.

In the day-to-day operations, female construction workers may find themselves involved in a range of tasks, such as backfilling holes, levelling earth in preparation for site work, surveying equipment, operating jackhammers, and various other duties. For those with specialised training, responsibilities might extend to transporting and handling explosives, operating hydraulic boring machines for tunnel excavation, utilizing lasers to lay pipes, or overseeing robotic pipe cutters controlled by computers. Certified personnel may also be tasked with the removal of hazardous materials such as lead, chemicals, or asbestos. This diversity of roles underscores the dynamic nature of opportunities available to women in the construction industry.

Women’s obstacles in the construction industry

Construction workers benefit from standardised hourly wages, which are consistent for both men and women within the industry. However, despite strides in improving gender diversity, certain industry-specific challenges persist. One notable concern is the reported discrepancy in working hours, where female construction workers may, at times, experience fewer working hours compared to their male counterparts.

Beyond the hour-based challenges, additional obstacles surface. Female workers in construction often grapple with ill-fitting professional attire and equipment, a factor that significantly heightens the risk of on-the-job injuries. The physical demands of construction work are also considerable, involving long hours in less-than-ideal conditions, with strenuous physical tasks amidst construction debris and noisy machinery, further complicating the work environment. Periodic layoffs and extended intervals between building projects are common occurrences in the construction industry, contributing to job instability.

Moreover, the traditional expectation for women, particularly those with children, to juggle caregiving responsibilities alongside their construction careers adds another layer of complexity. This stands in stark contrast to office workers who, benefiting from technological advancements like construction software, often enjoy greater work flexibility.

In essence, while the construction industry has made progress in fostering equal pay, various challenges persist for women, ranging from issues related to working hours and ill-fitting gear to the physically demanding nature of the job and the inherent challenges of balancing caregiving responsibilities. Addressing these multifaceted challenges is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable environment within the construction sector.

How to become a female construction worker?

If your aspiration is to work on an equal footing with your male counterparts, seize the opportunity with confidence. Cultivate self-assurance and dismiss any doubts about your capabilities simply because you are a woman. Pay no heed to detractors and remain steadfast in demonstrating, both to yourself and others, that you possess the skills and competence required for the job at hand.

Having established that there are no inherent physical barriers preventing women from pursuing a successful and fulfilling career in construction, the next step is to explore the diverse range of positions available to female construction workers. While some roles may necessitate a college diploma, many do not, making the field accessible to a broader spectrum of individuals. Acquiring the essential knowledge and skills for your chosen specialization can be achieved through relevant courses.

If you find yourself unsure about where to commence your journey in the construction sector, consider enrolling in a construction-related training program. Such programs not only equip you with foundational insights but also assist in identifying the specific position within the industry that aligns with your interests and strengths. This strategic approach ensures a smoother transition into the construction field, facilitating a more informed and tailored career path for aspiring female professionals.

How Coteca will help you?

Coteca.co.uk emerges as a dedicated online platform designed to cater to the needs of aspirants within the construction industry. Our extensive services encompass CSCS card applications, training, assessments, health and safety training, CITB test bookings, NVQ training, and more.

On our platform, you can find a range of construction courses that support construction workers and businesses in the UK in adhering to their health and safety responsibilities. In collaboration with Coteca, you can confidently embark on your CSCS card journey, knowing you have a reliable partner in your pursuit of construction excellence.

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