As we celebrate Women in Construction Week from March 2–8, 2025, the theme of this year’s event, "Together We Rise," serves as a powerful reminder of the collective strength needed to push for progress in the construction industry. This week is a time to reflect on the invaluable contributions of women in construction and advocate for the continued change needed to ensure a more inclusive and supportive environment for tradeswomen.

My journey in construction began in 2001 as an apprentice cement mason with the Operative Plasterers and Cement Masons International Association (OPCMIA) Local 599 in Milwaukee. Over the years, I have experienced firsthand the challenges women face in this predominantly male industry. From starting as an apprentice to becoming an Apprenticeship and Training Coordinator in 2011, and eventually serving as a Business Manager of my union, my path has been shaped by resilience, mentorship, and a passion for the craft. But it has also been a path paved with hurdles that only served to make me more determined to continue advocating for women’s success in construction.

The Changing Landscape for Women in Construction

Construction has traditionally been an industry dominated by men. However, the winds of change are beginning to blow. In Wisconsin, 2024 saw the highest participation of women in new construction apprenticeships in over 20 years, with women making up more than 4% of the new apprentices. While this is a significant achievement, it also highlights how much work is still needed to encourage more women to pursue careers in construction.

Despite the competitive salaries and strong job security construction offers, women still face a number of barriers, including:

Work Environment

‍The lack of female representation on job sites often leads to feelings of isolation for women.

Low Visibility

‍With fewer women in leadership and skilled trade roles, there are fewer role models for aspiring journeyworkers to look up to.

Lack of Supportive Policies and Childcare

‍Maternity leave policies and work-life balance structures often do not cater to the unique needs of women, especially those who are also primary caregivers. Securing childcare that aligns with early morning or late evening construction hours remains a significant challenge.

EmpowHER WI Is Leading the Charge for Change

In Wisconsin, EmpowHER WI is taking the lead in empowering tradeswomen and working to dismantle the barriers they face. The organization’s mission focuses on three key areas:

Visibility

‍Normalizing the presence of women on job sites and elevating women into leadership positions.

‍Support and Retention

‍Offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources to ensure that women not only enter but thrive in the construction industry.

Recruitment

‍Actively encouraging women to pursue union construction careers at all levels, from apprentices to seasoned tradeswomen.

Our vision is to create lasting change by promoting leadership through training, fostering solidarity among women in the industry, and showcasing the success stories of tradeswomen. We are already seeing positive, tangible results across Wisconsin, thanks to the work we’ve been doing.

Building Blocks: Empowering Women with Childcare Solutions

One of our major accomplishments is the partnership with TradesFutures and the Milwaukee Building & Construction Trades Council, which led to the creation of the Building Blocks childcare pilot program. This initiative has been a game-changer, providing much-needed financial assistance to trades workers with young children. By addressing the challenge of securing affordable childcare that accommodates construction schedules, the program has removed a significant obstacle that kept many tradeswomen from staying in the field.

Mentorship: The Key to Retention

Through EmpowHER’s mentoring initiatives, we pair experienced tradeswomen with newcomers to help them navigate the unique challenges of working in a male-dominated industry. This mentorship network offers support, guidance, and advice on everything from workplace dynamics to personal protective equipment designed specifically for women in construction. These mentors are instrumental in ensuring that women are able to build careers in construction while overcoming the many hurdles they face.

Celebrating Women in Construction Week and Beyond

As the construction industry continues to evolve, it is clear that women will play an essential role in shaping its future. Thanks to organizations like EmpowHER and the collective efforts of the community, we are breaking down barriers and building a more inclusive future.

But Women in Construction Week is not just about recognizing women’s contributions for one week—it’s about creating lasting change that continues year-round. It’s a reminder that women in construction deserve to have their work recognized, valued, and celebrated, not only during this special week but every day, on every project.

Let’s use Women in Construction Week as a catalyst for continued progress, and together, let’s rise to ensure that the construction industry is a place where women can thrive, succeed, and lead the way.

More Ways EmpowHER Is Making an Impact

Beyond its focus on mentorship, visibility, and recruitment, EmpowHER is also collaborating with local educational institutions to build more inclusive curriculums. By partnering with community colleges and vocational schools, we aim to make construction careers more accessible to women from all backgrounds. We also work closely with industry leaders to ensure that apprenticeship programs are equally welcoming to women and that women’s voices are included in decision-making processes at all levels.

EmpowHER’s vision extends beyond merely increasing the number of women in construction—it seeks to reshape the industry’s culture so that it becomes a place where women feel truly empowered and supported. As we continue to push for these changes, we invite more women to join the conversation, share their stories, and make a difference in the industry.

Together, we rise.

Originally reported by Kilah Engelke in Up North News.