Path to proficiency and excellence
In the multifaceted world of construction, opportunities for upskilling abound. Through diverse avenues such as certification courses, industry conferences, and specialised workshops, women in construction can chart their path to proficiency and excellence.
20 Steps for building mastery
Here’s a comprehensive list of 20 steps or ways that women in construction can undertake to upskill themselves:
Certification courses
Enroll in certification programs related to your field of interest within construction, such as LEED for sustainability, PMP for project management, or WHS for safety regulations.
Specialised workshops
Attend workshops focusing on emerging construction technologies like BIM (Building Information Modeling) or workshops on specific trades to expand your skill set.
Online courses
Explore online learning platforms offering courses in construction management, digital construction technologies, or specialised areas like estimating and scheduling.
Industry conferences
Participate in industry-specific conferences and seminars to stay updated on the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in construction.
Networking groups
Join women-focused networking groups or associations in the construction industry to connect with peers, mentors, and experts who can offer guidance and support.
Skill-sharing sessions
Organise or participate in skill-sharing sessions where professionals in the construction field can exchange knowledge and expertise.
Cross-training
Explore opportunities to cross-train in various roles within construction, allowing you to gain a comprehensive understanding of different facets of the industry.
Soft skills development
Enhance soft skills like communication, leadership, and negotiation, which are crucial for effective project management and team collaboration.
Shadowing experienced professionals
Shadow experienced professionals on the job to gain practical insights and hands-on experience in different construction tasks and management styles.
Internships or apprenticeships
Engage in internships or apprenticeship programs to acquire real-world experience and learn directly from seasoned practitioners.
Continuous reading and research
Stay updated by regularly reading industry journals, research papers, and books related to construction management, engineering, or specific trade areas.
Mentorship programs
Seek mentorship from seasoned professionals in the construction industry who can guide you based on their expertise and experiences.
Industry webinars
Attend webinars conducted by industry experts, discussing topics ranging from regulatory updates to technological advancements in construction.
Participation in industry projects
Volunteer for industry projects or initiatives to gain exposure to diverse challenges and problem-solving scenarios.
Local community programs
Engage with community programs related to construction, such as Habitat for Humanity, where hands-on experience can be gained while contributing to social causes.
Lifelong learning mindset
Cultivate a continuous learning mindset, open to new ideas, methodologies, and advancements within the construction industry.
Cross-industry exposure
Explore learning opportunities from adjacent industries like architecture, engineering, or real estate development to gain a broader perspective.
Seek feedback
Solicit feedback from peers, supervisors, or mentors to understand areas for improvement and actively work on refining those skills.
Leadership training
Pursue leadership development programs tailored for the construction sector, focusing on effective management and decision-making skills.
Utilise company training resources
Take advantage of training resources provided by your employer, such as in-house seminars, workshops, or training modules focused on enhancing construction-related skills.
Useful links
Women Building Australia Business Resilience Training
Women Building Australia Mentoring Program
Women Building Australia Mentoring Support for Female Business Owners
Master Builders NSW Education, Skills & Development
Master Builders NSW Events Calendar
TAFE NSW Building, Construction and Trades
Western Sydney Women
University of New South Wales Built Environment
Sydney Build Expo Women in Construction