UPTON, Mass. — The Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) marked Women in Construction Week by engaging students from Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School to showcase and encourage women’s roles in the construction sector.

As part of the national and state-driven initiative to amplify the involvement of women in construction, EOLWD Secretary Lauren Jones visited the high school’s construction training programs and spoke with the female students enrolled in them.

"Women in Construction Week is an opportunity to showcase the amazing women in construction, celebrate increased exposure for girls to learn about careers in construction, and encourage women to join the industry," said Jones. "Through the recent Executive Order, continued investment in Registered Apprenticeship, and great partnerships, we are working every day to increase access to training and career opportunities right here in Massachusetts for women and people of color."

The event coincided with the Healey administration’s broader commitment to increasing diversity in construction. In December 2024, Governor Maura Healey signed an executive order aimed at promoting women and diverse groups in construction, which led to the formation of the Diverse and Equitable Construction Workforce Participation Committee. This committee, which is chaired by Secretary Lauren Jones, works to foster more inclusive workforce participation in the state’s construction sector.

After her visit to Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School, Secretary Jones toured the Blackstone Valley HUB for Workforce Development, an organization dedicated to equipping students with essential technical and employability skills.

"BV Hub is thrilled to welcome Secretary Jones during Women in Construction Week as we highlight the critical role of women in the trades within our broader workforce development initiatives," said Joscelyn Young, Vice President of Blackstone Valley HUB.

Strengthening the Path to Careers in Construction

The Healey administration’s investment in programs like Registered Apprenticeship provides critical pathways to skilled trades for underrepresented groups. The Registered Apprenticeship model, which focuses on recruiting and training apprentices, has proven successful in other high-demand industries and is now being leveraged to ensure women and minorities have better access to construction careers.

Jones emphasized that initiatives like Women in Construction Week and the new executive order are part of a larger, ongoing effort to create a more inclusive, diverse, and accessible workforce in Massachusetts. The state's commitment to apprenticeship programs further ensures that these efforts translate into sustainable career opportunities for women and people of color.

"The key to empowering more women in construction is providing the necessary resources, exposure, and mentorship to foster long-term success," said Jones. "We are not just celebrating women in construction this week, but we are laying the groundwork for future generations of women in the trades."

Supporting Women in the Trades

During the event, students were encouraged to consider construction as a viable and rewarding career path, with programs and resources available to support their professional growth. EOLWD and its partners are committed to creating an environment where women and girls can feel supported as they navigate careers in the traditionally male-dominated construction industry.

As the week drew to a close, Jones and other leaders emphasized that while progress has been made, there is still much to be done to ensure that women, particularly women of color, continue to see meaningful growth and opportunities within the industry. "It’s essential that we continue to invest in programs that ensure equal access and opportunities for everyone," said Jones. "Massachusetts is committed to breaking down barriers and making sure all women, regardless of background, know they have a place in the construction industry."

Conclusion: Building a More Diverse Future

The Healey administration’s focus on increasing diversity in construction and trade industries demonstrates Massachusetts’ commitment to breaking down barriers and providing more pathways to success for women and minority groups. Women in Construction Week serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity in the workforce and the need for continued efforts to ensure equitable opportunities for all.

About the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD)

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) is dedicated to promoting the growth of a skilled, diverse, and equitable workforce. EOLWD focuses on strengthening the workforce through various initiatives, partnerships, and programs aimed at improving training and employment opportunities for all residents of Massachusetts.

About Blackstone Valley HUB for Workforce Development

Blackstone Valley HUB for Workforce Development is an organization that supports workforce development in the region by offering students the skills and resources needed to thrive in today’s job market. The HUB is committed to creating pathways to success for students in high-demand fields, including construction and trades.

For more information on Women in Construction Week and related workforce initiatives, visit https://www.wwlp.com/news/massachusetts/massachusetts-celebrates-women-in-construction-week/

Originally reported by Beck Wehner in WWLP.