Women are playing an increasingly visible role across the construction industry, with greater representation in project delivery, leadership, technology and engineering broadening the sector’s talent pool and strengthening its ability to respond to emerging challenges.

Global technology company RIB Software global marketing VP Kim Immelman says the industry has made encouraging progress in creating opportunities for women, although continued efforts to improve diversity and inclusion remain important.

Immelman, who has gained insight through engagements with customers across the global construction industry, says there is now a more deliberate focus on broadening access to opportunities and building diverse teams.

“Women have a far more visible place in all parts of the industry, whether that’s in project delivery, leadership, technology or engineering,” she says.

She believes recognizing the contribution of women during Women’s Month provides an opportunity to celebrate progress while encouraging the next generation to consider construction as a sector in which they can build meaningful careers.

The need to attract a broader range of talent is particularly significant as the industry confronts skills shortages, productivity pressures and sustainability challenges. 

Beyond improving representation, greater diversity can contribute directly to project outcomes in an industry where problem-solving and collaboration are fundamental.

According to Immelman, organisations achieving the strongest results are often those that bring together people with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

“Construction is ultimately a problem-solving industry,” she says, noting that diverse perspectives can help challenge established thinking around infrastructure delivery, risk, sustainability and technology.

“Diversity isn’t simply good for representation; it genuinely makes teams stronger, more resilient, and often more innovative,” Immelman says.

Leadership and Representation

For Immelman, increasing the visibility of women in construction is critical to changing perceptions about who can build a career in the industry.

“When young women see others succeeding in the construction industry, whether that’s on site, in leadership roles, technology or innovation, it helps them believe that those opportunities are available to them as well,” she says.

Leadership has an important role to play in creating an environment in which women can progress. While policies and programmes have a role, Immelman believes effective 

leadership goes further by providing mentorship, visibility and access to opportunities.

“Great leaders don’t just create that seat at the table; they help those folks at that table confidently contribute while sat there,” she says.

Creating opportunities for women is therefore not simply about bringing more women into the industry, but ensuring they have the support and confidence to participate meaningfully and progress.

Role of Technology

The rapid digitalisation of construction is also changing perceptions of what a career in the industry can entail.

Technology is transforming how projects are planned, delivered and managed, while creating new career pathways in data, digital engineering, building information modelling, sustainability and AI.“I think this evolution is absolutely creating exciting opportunities for women and a more diverse workforce,” she says.

Challenging Outdated Perceptions

For young women considering entering the sector, Immelman believes outdated perceptions should not define their view of construction.

The industry is much broader than many people realise, offering opportunities across technology, design, sustainability, engineering and business leadership.

“Construction is one of the most impactful industries in the world. It shapes the buildings, the infrastructure, and the communities we rely on every day,” she says.

Her advice to prospective entrants is to remain curious, ask questions, seek mentors and trust their abilities.

“What the industry needs now more than ever is fresh thinking and absolute diverse perspectives,” she says.

Ultimately, Immelman believes the future of construction will depend not only on technological advancement and innovation, but also on the people behind these developments.

“The future of construction will be shaped by those who are willing to challenge traditional thinking, embrace innovation, and help create a diverse industry for generations to come,” she concludes.