The Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders Supports Increased Workforce Development Opportunities for Women to Help Address the Home Building Labor Shortage
According to labor force statistics from the Current Population Survey and analyzed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the share of women in the construction industry is currently at 9.86 percent, although women make up almost half—47 percent—of the total working population. While female construction employment increased to 1.1 million in 2018—almost reaching the pre-recession high—the housing industry is still facing a major labor shortage.
In recognition of Professional Women in Building (PWB) Week Sept. 14-18, members of the National Association of Home Builders are calling for an increase in workforce development opportunities for women to help address the ongoing labor shortage that is severely impacting the home building industry.
The home building industry continues to struggle with a labor shortage, now more than ever is the time for our industry to not only increase our recruitment efforts, but to also change the way we talk about careers in home building to show women this industry has so much to offer them. We need to help the public understand that the industry provides a high income, significant work values, job security and a sense of accomplishment.
“Fostering a diverse and inclusive construction workforce is critical if we want the industry to thrive,” said NAHB PWB Council Chair Darylene Dennon, chief executive officer and owner of Solid Energy Inc. in Woodinville, Wash. “Supporting women in construction opens up a new world of talent, innovation and viewpoints. All members of the industry should dedicate efforts to increasing the participation of women in the trades.”
Throughout the week our organization will be sharing articles supporting PWB and will highlight local women in the industry.
For more information, visit nahb.org/pwbweek. Lowe’s is the exclusive sponsor for PWB week.
Justin Green
President, Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders