Sara Roberts, Chief Services Officer at Kingdom Academy
When we imagine the future of construction, we often think of new technology, sustainable materials, and ambitious projects that will shape our skylines. But behind every innovation lies a more fundamental question: who will be building that future? Today, women make up less than 15% of the UK construction workforce – a reminder that one of the sector’s greatest opportunities is still untapped.
Beyond the barriers
For many young women, construction has not always felt like an obvious career path. Outdated perceptions in schools, a lack of visible role models, and limited awareness of the breadth of opportunities available all play their part. For those who do join, ensuring that working patterns, progression routes and learning environments support their development is crucial to retention.
But there is positive momentum. Across the country, more employers, training providers and professional bodies are recognising that widening participation is not just the right thing to do – it is central to tackling skills shortages and securing the future of the sector.
Raising visibility and celebrating role models
One of the most powerful ways to encourage more women into the sector is by highlighting those who are already making an impact. Initiatives like CITB’s Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction shine a spotlight on women and non-binary professionals across a range of roles – from site managers and engineers to trainers and senior leaders.
By celebrating their influence, innovation and leadership, these initiatives provide much-needed visibility. They show the next generation what is possible and help to shift perceptions of construction as a career path. Recognition at this level also reinforces the message that women are not only welcome in the sector, but are central to its success.
Building on strong foundations
At Kingdom Academy, we are committed to playing our part in shaping that future. Our acquisition of Competence Matters in 2024 was an important step in strengthening the support we can offer to those building their careers in construction.
With a focus on high-quality, accredited training, we have ambitious plans to widen access and ensure that pathways into construction are not only open to more women, but also designed in a way that supports long-term progression. This is about more than technical competence. It is about creating learning environments where people feel confident, supported, and able to see a future for themselves in the industry.
Training as a catalyst for change
We know that training and development are fundamental to building inclusive workforces. High-quality learning provides technical knowledge, yes – but it also builds confidence, creates networks of support, and demonstrates that the sector is prepared to invest in its people.
For women considering construction, this clarity and assurance can be the deciding factor in whether they see the industry as a place to start and, more importantly, to stay.
A long-term commitment
Encouraging more women into construction will not be achieved through quick fixes. It requires sustained commitment to:
- Building accessible and inclusive entry routes.
- Embedding mentoring and peer networks.
- Linking technical training with leadership and communication skills.
Encouraging More Women into Construction: Why Training and Career Development Hold the Key
The construction sector has a real opportunity to reshape its workforce by ensuring women can see their skills, ambitions and potential reflected within it. Training and career development are central to that shift.
At Kingdom Academy, we believe that when learning is delivered with quality, inclusivity and progression in mind, it does more than prepare people for jobs. It helps shape futures. And that is how the sector will not only attract more women, but retain them – building a stronger, more resilient industry for the years ahead.