Overview
While specific fields may seem unconventional, the construction industry offers many opportunities for young women. Here’s a guide to help parents understand why and how they should encourage their daughters to consider a career in construction.
Understanding the importance:
- Diversity in the field: The construction industry is evolving, embracing diversity and inclusion. Encouraging daughters to explore this field breaks gender barriers and creates a more balanced workforce.
- Rewarding careers: Highlight the diverse career paths in construction, from architectural design to project management and hands-on roles like carpentry or electrical work. These careers offer fulfilment and the opportunity to contribute to tangible projects.
- Financial stability: Discuss the financial stability and potential for growth in the construction industry. Highlight the competitive salaries and opportunities for career advancement.
Addressing concerns:
- Safety and Stereotypes: Discuss safety measures within the industry and challenge any stereotypes about construction being a male-dominated field. Highlight how diversity benefits the workplace.
- Supporting Interests: Encourage your daughter’s interests in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), as these fields intersect significantly with the construction industry.
Encouraging your daughter to consider a career in construction opens doors to diverse opportunities, challenges stereotypes, and contributes to a more inclusive society. It’s about nurturing her passions, fostering skill development, and empowering her to explore a rewarding and fulfilling career path.
Remember, your support and guidance are crucial in shaping her future. Let’s inspire and empower our daughters to explore the possibilities awaiting them in the construction industry.
Approaches to encourage:
- Education and Awareness: Educate your daughter about the diverse roles available in construction. Share stories of successful women in the field and introduce her to construction-related educational programs.
- Skill Development: Emphasize the crucial skills cultivated in construction, such as problem-solving, teamwork, creativity, and leadership. Highlight how these skills are transferable and valuable in any career path.
- Support and Mentorship: Connect your daughter with mentors or professionals in the construction industry. Mentorship programs can offer guidance and encouragement as she navigates her career choices.
- Explore Training Programs: Investigate vocational training programs or internships available in construction. These hands-on experiences can spark interest and provide insight into the industry.
Why the construction industry
Paving the way for equality
The construction industry is evolving, welcoming diversity and inclusivity. Encouraging daughters to explore this field contributes to breaking gender barriers, fostering equality, and promoting their invaluable contributions.
A World of opportunities
Construction offers diverse career paths beyond stereotypes. From architectural design and project management to hands-on roles like carpentry or electrical work, the field is multifaceted, catering to varied interests and skills.
Fulfilling and meaningful work
Building something tangible from the ground up is immensely gratifying. Careers in construction provide a sense of accomplishment, seeing projects come to life and contributing to the infrastructure of communities.
Financial stability and growth
The construction industry offers competitive salaries and ample opportunities for career advancement. Encouraging daughters to consider construction careers sets them toward financial stability and growth.
Skill development and creativity
Working in construction nurtures essential skills like problem-solving, creativity, teamwork, and leadership. It challenges individuals to think on their feet and fosters a sense of innovation.
Demand for talent
The construction industry is constantly seeking new talent. Encouraging daughters to consider this field presents a unique chance to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals.
Support for learning and growth
Educational institutions and training programs offer specialised courses tailored for aspiring construction professionals. Encourage your daughters to explore these programs to kickstart their career journey.
Shaping the future
Encouraging daughters to pursue construction careers means shaping a more inclusive and diverse future. It empowers them to lead and inspire the next generation of women in construction.
Careers in construction
Architects and Designers
Dream big and design the structures of tomorrow. Architects and designers turn ideas into plans, creating the blueprints that guide construction projects.
Civil Engineers
Have you ever wondered how bridges stay standing or how roads are designed? Civil engineers make it happen. They tackle big projects, from designing infrastructure to ensuring it stands the test of time.
Skilled Trades
Carpenters, electricians, plumbers – these skilled trades are the backbone of construction. Build, wire, and install to bring projects to life.
Project Managers
Love organising and leading a team? Project managers oversee every aspect of construction projects, ensuring they run smoothly from start to finish.
Useful links
NSW Department of Education Apprentices and trainees
Australian Apprenticeship Support for parents
Skills NSW
Australian Government Your Career
Infrastructure NSW Women in Construction
Master Builders NSW Women in Construction
Download the Welcome guide for apprentices and trainees
Download the JobSeeker Handbook
Fair Work Ombudsman Guide to starting an apprenticeship
SafeWork NSW Young workers eToolkit