Attracting young women to construction careers: a preference study to inform workforce strategies

Abstract Critical skill shortages are a pressing issue for the construction industry worldwide. In Australia, labour shortages are exacerbated by the underrepresentation of young women across various roles, particularly in blue-collar and trade sectors. This research study employed a latent class model combined with discrete choice experiments to examine young women’s career preferences and perceived barriers to construction employment. The findings highlight that young women value collaboration, creativity, and workplace inclusivity but are deterred by concerns regarding safety, limited career progression, and entrenched young men dominance. Distinct classes of young women respondents exhibit varying levels of interest in construction careers, with lower-interest groups emphasizing skill misalignment and workplace culture concerns, while higher-interest groups prioritize opportunities for leadership and professional development. By addressing these barriers through targeted interventions—such as gender-responsive skill development, workplace flexibility, enhanced safety measures, and greater visibility of young women role models—the industry can create a more inclusive environment that attracts and retains diverse talent. The study provides actionable insights for policymakers and industry leaders, emphasizing the need for structural reforms to enhance gender equity and workforce sustainability in the construction industry.