For decades, the construction industry has been viewed as a male-dominated field. However, times are changing, and women are increasingly making their mark in the building trades. At Carpenters Local 106, we are proud to support and encourage women to pursue rewarding careers in carpentry and construction.
Breaking Barriers in the Building Trades
Women have historically been underrepresented in construction roles. Yet, recent years have seen a significant shift. In 2024, approximately 1.34 million women were employed in the construction industry, accounting for 11.2% of the workforce. This marks a 45% increase over the past decade, highlighting the growing presence of women in the field. (ClockShark, IWPR, laborfinders.com)
Despite this progress, women still represent a small fraction of those working directly with tools on construction sites. As of 2023, only 4.3% of tradespeople performing hands-on construction work were women. This underscores the importance of continued efforts to promote inclusivity and provide opportunities for women in all aspects of the industry.(IWPR)
Carpenters Local 106: Championing Women in Carpentry
At Carpenters Local 106, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive in carpentry and construction careers. Our apprenticeship programs offers comprehensive training, mentorship, and support to help those with any skill level develop the expertise needed for success in the trades.
The United Brotherhood of Carpenters includes a network of women, Sisters in the Brotherhood, whose goal is to provide avenues for women to eliminate barriers to success and increase the number and diversity of women in the UBC. Local 106 also benefits from our involvement with Iowa Women in the Trades, a community of construction tradeswomen promoting equity and respect on the jobsite and sharing resources for success.
Our membership and contractors actively participate in training aimed at ending gender-based bullying, including North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters’ Be More than a Bystander training. Additionally, we recognize initiatives aimed at increasing female representation in the industry such as Women in Construction Week and partnerships with various other organizations dedicated to supporting women in the trades. By providing resources and creating a supportive community, we aim to empower women to pursue and excel in construction careers.(Scott + Reid – General Contractors)
The Benefits of a Career in Construction for Women
A career in construction offers numerous advantages for women seeking fulfilling and well-compensated work:
- Competitive Pay: Construction roles often provide wages that are on par with, or exceed, those in other industries.
- Job Security: With a growing demand for skilled labor, construction offers stable employment opportunities.(ClockShark)
- Career Advancement: Women in construction are increasingly moving into leadership roles, with 39% holding such positions as of 2024. (Scott + Reid – General Contractors)
- Skill Development: Hands-on training and continuous learning opportunities enable women to build valuable and transferable skills.
Join Us in Building the Future
The construction industry is evolving, and women are playing a crucial role in shaping its future. At Carpenters Local 106, we welcome and support women who are ready to embark on a rewarding career in carpentry and construction.
Interested in learning more about our apprenticeship programs and opportunities for women in the trades? Visit our website to get started.