Celebrating Women in Construction | Pt. 1

March marks Women’s History Month, a time to reflect on the incredible contributions that women have made across all sectors. In the construction industry, which has traditionally been dominated by men, women have been breaking barriers and influencing the way we do construction. Their contributions have not only shaped the built environment but have also paved the way for future generations of women who are eager to enter this industry. Let’s take a moment to celebrate their achievements and the ongoing strides being made to ensure a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

Early Influences

In the 19th century, while women were not typically seen as skilled laborers, many began to train as architects and engineers. One notable example is Martha J. Lamb, who became the first female member of the American Institute of Architects in the late 19th century. She worked tirelessly to promote women’s involvement in the architectural and construction professions. Mary Jane Safford, an architect in the late 1800s, is another example of a woman who broke through the walls of entering the industry. As one of the few women to practice architecture in her time, Safford was involved in both residential and commercial designs. 

Into the mid-1900s, Emily Roebling became a symbol of resilience in the construction world. She is best known for her important role in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. After her husband fell ill, Roebling took over many of his duties, managing the daily operations and providing technical expertise on the project. Her contributions were critical in ensuring the completion of the bridge.

Finally, one of the most famous representations of women in construction is the iconic Rosie the Riveter, a symbol of female strength and capability. Women were involved in building military barracks, factories, and bridges, often working with tools and machinery that had previously been reserved for men. The war years provided a turning point for women in construction, as many entered the workforce and stayed on after the wars ended, reshaping public perceptions of women’s roles in the industry.

Modern Day Influences

In the 21st century, women continue to make their mark in construction, though they remain a minority in many areas of the industry. Women now serve as general contractors, project managers, engineers, and skilled tradespeople, leading major projects and running successful businesses.

Jeanne Gang, founder of Studio Gang Architects, is one such example. Gang is known for her innovative designs, including the Aqua Tower in Chicago—one of the most distinctive skyscrapers in the U.S. Her work challenges conventional architectural design, blending art, sustainability, and urbanism to create buildings that shape the future of cities.

Another example is Linda Alvarado, a successful businesswoman who became one of the first women to own a major league baseball team (the Colorado Rockies). As a construction executive, Alvarado has led Alvarado Construction, a successful firm that has worked on large-scale projects, demonstrating the potential for women to thrive in construction leadership roles.

Women are also making strides in the construction trades, once considered an exclusively male domain. Women are helping to build bridges, homes, and highways across the globe and are finding opportunities to advance, whether in construction management or skilled labor positions. The future of construction is bright, and with continued efforts to provide equal opportunities, women will continue to build and reshape our world for generations to come. As more women enter the workforce, the construction industry will only become more dynamic, diverse, and innovative, paving the way for an improved and more inclusive future.