Greater representation of women is essential to meet Ireland’s housing, infrastructure and climate challenges, according to the Construction Industry Federation (CIF).
With only 11% of those employed in construction in Ireland currently women, CIF hosted an International Women’s Day Summit at The Johnstown Estate in Co Meath on March 6 to call for sustained leadership supporting the entry of more women into the industry.
The event highlighted pathways to careers for women, including via STEM subjects and construction-related apprenticeships.
A live-streamed Q&A was chaired by reigning Rose of Tralee and apprentice electrician Katelyn Cummins between a panel of graduate apprentices and a group of students at Ardscoil Rath Iomghain school in Rathangan, Co Kildare.
The students are taking part in the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme, an initiative supported by the CIF.
Andrew Brownlee, Chief Executive of CIF, said, “To meet Ireland’s urgent, complex and interconnected housing, infrastructure and climate challenges, we require the very best minds and the broadest range of talent available. That must include women.
“Right now, just 11% of the 191,000 people employed in construction in Ireland are women. While progress is steady, it is still slow, and that’s a figure we simply can’t ignore. We can’t afford, economically or socially to draw from only half the population. The challenge is too big, and the opportunity to attract and retain the best talent to our industry is too important.
“The construction industry is rapidly digitalising and modernising. The on-site roles in trades, engineering and project management are only part of the story. There are careers in digital construction, sustainability, off-site manufacturing, planning, finance, health and safety, design, communications and leadership.
“There truly is something for almost every interest and skillset, on site and off site. Construction-related apprenticeships are a key opportunity for more women, with latest figures showing that women make up almost 10% per cent of people undertaking apprentices in Ireland.
“I’m continually encouraged by the work many CIF members are doing to lead the way and who are sending a strong message about the kind of industry we want to be. Across our membership, I see real effort going into mentoring, inclusive recruitment practices and enhancing workplace policies. That leadership matters. It helps set the tone for the wider sector.”
Joanne Treacy, Southern Regional Director with CIF and MC of the International Women’s Day Summit, said, “The CIF is committed, alongside our members, to building a more diverse and inclusive workforce where people can reach their potential. Our industry is changing and evolving every day, and we will become even stronger as our workforce diversifies.
“Our International Women’s Day Summit, which this year has the theme Give to Gain, will showcase an exceptional line-up of leading female experts to illustrate to women and girls from school-age onwards the vast opportunities a career in construction can bring.
“The programme features authoritative voices on creating inclusive workplaces, the principles of leadership excellence, the transformative impact of digitalisation, and the broader value of ESG beyond carbon counting.
“Across the day, attendees will hear from specialists who bring deep insight, practical experience, and forward-thinking perspectives to each of these vital topics, ensuring an inspiring and thought-provoking celebration of women’s expertise.”
