6. Strategies for Improving Diversity and Inclusion in the Construction Workforce

Diversity and inclusion have become increasingly important topics in today's workplace. The construction industry has historically been male-dominated and lacking in diversity. However, it is important to recognize the value of diverse perspectives and experiences in the construction workforce. In this article, we will discuss strategies for improving diversity and inclusion in the construction industry.

6.1 Develop a Diversity and Inclusion Plan

One of the first steps in improving diversity and inclusion in the construction industry is to develop a diversity and inclusion plan. This plan should include specific goals and actions that will be taken to attract, retain, and promote a diverse workforce. The plan should also include metrics to track progress and hold the company accountable for achieving its goals.

6.2 Create a Culture of Inclusion

Creating a culture of inclusion is essential to improving diversity in the construction industry. This involves creating an environment where all employees feel valued and respected, regardless of their race, gender, ethnicity, or other characteristics. Companies can promote a culture of inclusion by providing training on unconscious bias, promoting open communication, and actively seeking out diverse perspectives.

6.3 Expand Recruitment Efforts

To increase diversity in the construction workforce, companies should expand their recruitment efforts to reach a wider pool of candidates. This can include partnering with local schools and community organizations, attending job fairs, and promoting job openings on social media platforms.

6.4 Provide Training and Development Opportunities

Offering training and development opportunities to all employees is another way to promote diversity and inclusion in the construction industry. This can include technical training, soft skills training, and leadership development programs. Providing these opportunities can help employees build their skills and advance their careers, regardless of their background or experience.

6.5 Implement Diversity-Focused Hiring Practices

Implementing diversity-focused hiring practices can also help to improve diversity and inclusion in the construction workforce. This can include ensuring that job descriptions are free from bias, using blind resumes to remove identifying information and conducting diverse interview panels. Companies can also consider implementing diversity quotas or targets to ensure that a certain percentage of their workforce comes from underrepresented groups.

6.6 Conclusion

In conclusion, improving diversity and inclusion in the construction workforce is essential to building a more inclusive and equitable industry. Companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion will be better equipped to meet the needs of their clients, employees, and communities. By developing a diversity and inclusion plan, creating a culture of inclusion, expanding recruitment efforts, providing training and development opportunities, and implementing diversity-focused hiring practices, the construction industry can work towards a more diverse and inclusive future.

6.7 References

1). Jin Ouk Choi, Ph.D., Jennifer S. Shane, Ph.D. and Ying-Yi Chih, Ph.D.(2022), Diversity and Inclusion in the Engineering-Construction Industry, Engineering, Volume 38 Issue 2, Available at < https://ascelibrary.org/doi/full/10.1061/%28ASCE%29ME.1943-5479.0001005 >  [Accesses on 22^nd April 2023]

2). Saba Nikkhah Manesh, Jin Ouk Choi, and Pramen Shrestha (2020), Critical Literature Review on the Diversity and Inclusion of Women and Ethnic Minorities in Construction and Civil Engineering Industry and Education, Construction Research Congress 2020, Available at < https://ascelibrary.org/doi/abs/10.1061/9780784482872.020 >  [Accesses on 22^nd April 2023]