Celebrating women in every corner of our industry
Women are part of construction in countless ways, on site, in design and engineering, in planning and logistics, in safety roles, in technical and digital fields, and in leadership positions. Women in Construction Week shines a light on that breadth of talent and challenges outdated assumptions about who belongs in our industry.
Why this week matters
Construction remains a predominantly male industry, and that imbalance shapes many of the assumptions people still hold about who belongs here. But the idea that only men can join, progress and succeed in construction is outdated; women are already involved across every part of the sector, and there’s space for many more.
This week gives us the space to acknowledge those biases while highlighting the women already driving projects forward, shaping safer workplaces, and influencing how our built environment evolves. It’s about celebrating progress and recognising where change is still needed.
“You Don’t Have to Fit a Mould”: Roma Agrawal on Building a More Inclusive Future in Construction
Roma Agrawal is a structural engineer and author, best known for her work on London’s iconic Shard. In this short video, she shares her journey into engineering, the challenges she has faced along the way, and the determination and passion that helped her succeed at the highest level.
From building confidence in a male-dominated environment to embracing opportunities and overcoming setbacks, Roma’s story is an honest and inspiring look at what it takes to build a career in construction and engineering.
Her experience highlights the importance of visibility, representation and support, and shows how diverse talent helps drive innovation and progress across the industry.
You can also read our full article with Roma, where she reflects in more detail on her career path, key milestones and her advice for the next generation of women considering a future in construction.
By sharing stories like Roma’s, we hope to celebrate achievement, inspire others, and continue building a more inclusive industry where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Supporting women across all roles
Positive change comes from practical action and everyday decisions that help women feel welcome, respected and supported in construction, whatever their role.
Build inclusive environments
- Ensure policies, facilities and site culture work for everyone.
- Challenge stereotypes and encourage teams to recognise and tackle bias.
- Make it clear that women belong in all roles, from apprenticeships to senior leadership.
Prioritise safety and wellbeing
- Provide correctly fitting PPE and equipment designed for all body types.
- Offer training, development and mentoring that help women grow skills and confidence.
Celebrate achievements
- Share stories that reflect the range of work women do across the sector: trades, engineering, quantity surveying, site management, digital construction, operations, administration and more.
- Use internal and external channels to amplify these wins and show the industry in a more accurate, aspirational light.
- Highlight everyday successes, not just major milestones.
Inspire new talent
- Partner with schools, colleges and early career networks to promote the industry as an inclusive and rewarding career choice.
- Promote construction’s diverse career opportunities, including technical, creative, digital and hands-on opportunities.
- Showcase successful female role models, and provide mentorship programmes
Looking ahead
Women in Construction Week is an opportunity to take stock of where the industry stands and where it can improve. By continuing to challenge assumptions, share real experiences and highlight the diversity of roles women already hold, we can help the sector move in a more inclusive direction. It’s about practical progress, not grand statements — and making sure women feel supported to succeed in every part of construction.
Download our ‘Women in Construction Week’ assets, including graphics and social media copy.
Need To Talk?
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is never far away. We offer free and confidential support to anyone in the construction community. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, financial worries or just need someone to talk to, there’s a way for you to reach us.
Click through the slides below to find out more about the free, confidential support services available to you.
