In recent years, women have continued to break down barriers across every industry. One notable success story is the increasing presence of women in construction management, a field that began witnessing a surge of female professionals in the latter part of the 20th century.
This trend has persisted and gained momentum over the past few decades. Even so, there’s room for improvement: women constitute only about 9.9% of the construction industry workforce. Remarkably, the industry boasts a notably narrower gender pay gap than the average across all careers in the United States.
At NMU Global Campus, a robust Bachelor of Science in Construction Management program supports women who aspire to leadership roles within the construction sector. The university actively extends its outreach to women. For example, NMU recently held one of its many Women in Construction events in Grand Rapids, Mich. The one-day events are held by female construction industry professionals.
Smaller Pay Gap is a Compelling Draw
Women are drawn to construction management for the same reasons as their male counterparts – the desire to actively engage in a dynamic, fulfilling field overseeing complex construction projects. A significant factor that adds to the appeal for women is the smaller pay gap. While women in the U.S. earn, on average, about 82% of what men do in the same roles, this gap narrows to about 95.5% in the construction industry.
According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, about 1.1 million women work in construction. Although the number of women in construction decreased during and after the Great Recession, it has steadily risen in the years since.
Women in construction management report that while they sometimes face challenges working with so many men, they still enjoy construction management. Lindsey Peruto, a construction project manager in Philadelphia, told Insider that she often is the only woman on a job site. Peruto oversees all the logistics of constructing large buildings, including schedules, ordering materials, and delegating work.
“I’d definitely recommend it to other women. It’s not a typical office job, and while it can be stressful, it’s very exciting and far from mundane,” she said. “Yes, it’s still a male-dominated field, but rather than letting that intimidate me, I’ve allowed it to fuel me.”
Reasons Construction Management is an Excellent Choice for Women
In addition to the smaller pay gap, women are attracted to construction management for a variety of good reasons. One is that efforts made by the industry and by universities like NMU have attracted more women to the construction industry. With more women entering the field, the industry has taken steps toward inclusivity.
Also, in construction management, career advancement is typically based on skills, experience, and performance. This provides a level playing field for both men and women. A career in construction management also requires a range of skills that many women excel in, including leadership, communication, problem-solving, and technical knowledge.
The salaries for construction managers are also attractive. The most recent data from the federal government indicates an annual median salary of $101,480. Job security is also high, with the field expected to grow by 5% in the coming decade.
Overseeing complex construction projects is also immensely satisfying. It offers intellectual challenges and tangible results, which can be incredibly rewarding. Construction managers also play a pivotal role in the “built environment” in cities and communities. Women in construction management contribute to this process by bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to the table.
NMU Global Campus Construction Management Program
The NMU Global Campus construction management program is a beacon of support for all students, including women looking to thrive in this burgeoning field. Its affordability and flexible online structure cater to professionals with demanding schedules.
With a credit transfer program allowing up to 90 credits, NMU ensures a smooth transition for prospective students. Graduates emerge from the program equipped to oversee projects comprehensively, managing budgets, timelines, scope, and quality to meet project objectives.
For women in construction management, this program not only hones their in-demand skills but also ensures they receive fair compensation for their invaluable contributions. The industry is evolving, and women are pivotal in shaping its future.
