Research project The construction industry aims for 25 % of new hires to be women by 2030. There is a lack of knowledge on the possible challenges in terms of physical workload, work environment, and norms. The aim of the study is to map sex differences and gender aspects through surveys, physical tests, and interviews with construction students, women and managers in the industry. The results will provide the industry with knowledge to support improvements in gender equality and a sustainable work environment.
The project examines both sex differences and gender aspects in the construction industry by addressing questions on physical capacity and health among construction students, women’s experiences of the physical and psychosocial work environment, and how education and industry address recruitment, work environment, and gender equality. It also explores why women enter and leave the construction industry and managers’ views on barriers and opportunities in women entering construction. The project will increase knowledge of working conditions and norms among women in, or entering, construction.
The construction industry faces a major need for recruitment and has set goals to increase the proportion of women. At the same time, there is limited knowledge about women’s conditions, health, and experiences in skilled trades. Previous research shows that the work is physically demanding and that the industry is shaped by norms and structures that may affect women’s opportunities to enter and remain in the profession. In particular, there is a lack of knowledge about those entering the field and how education and working life shape their conditions.
The project aims to increase knowledge about women in, and entering, skilled trades in the construction industry. We examine physical capacity and health among young people in training, as well as women’s experiences of the physical and psychosocial work environment. The project also explores how educational programs and companies work with recruitment, work environment, and gender equality, and identifies barriers and opportunities for women’s entry and retention in the profession.
The study uses a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and physical capacity tests among students in upper secondary construction programs, as well as interviews with female students, women working in the industry, women who have left the profession, teachers, school leaders, and managers in construction companies. A cohort of students will be established to enable future longitudinal follow-up of health, work environment, and career pathways.
By combining perspectives from individuals, education, and working life, the project will generate new knowledge about both physical and structural conditions.
