Breaking Ground: The Rise of Black Women in Construction

In an industry traditionally dominated by men, Black women are carving out their space, breaking barriers, and reshaping the landscape of construction. With determination, resilience, and talent, they are not only defying stereotypes but also driving innovation and progress. From wielding hammers to managing projects, Black women are leaving an indelible mark on the construction industry, challenging perceptions and inspiring future generations.

Historically, construction has been a male-dominated field, with women, particularly women of color, facing numerous challenges in accessing opportunities and breaking into the industry. However, Black women have persisted, overcoming systemic barriers and discrimination to establish themselves as integral contributors to the construction sector.

One of the most notable aspects of the presence of Black women in construction is their multifaceted roles. They are not confined to specific tasks but are engaged in various aspects of the construction process, from design and engineering to project management and leadership positions. This diversity of roles highlights their versatility and expertise across different domains within the industry.

One area where Black women have made significant strides is in the trades. Traditionally perceived as physically demanding and male-dominated, trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work have seen an increasing number of Black women excelling and making their mark. The AKA Team’s Amber Walls started her career in the industry as a painter using glazing technique like her dad. Her 13 years of experience in the field gave her the ability to bridge gaps between the management team and tradespeople. Currently working on the Progressive Field renovations, Amber welcomed the opportunity to work in management as she has been able to absorb more about the industry: leads, procurement, estimating, schedules, and budgets. A self-described quick learner, she believes her field experience prepared her well for the position. “Construction is a high stress industry but because I am a people person, I bring a sense of calm to the jobsite. It’s not easy, but I’m good at it, so I’m going to press on,” she says.

Black women are increasingly occupying leadership positions within construction firms and organizations. As project managers, supervisors, and executives, they bring a unique perspective to decision-making processes, fostering inclusivity and driving positive change within the industry. Their leadership serves as a testament to their capabilities and paves the way for greater diversity and representation at all levels of the construction sector. The CEO and president of The AKA Team, Ariane Kirkpatrick , started the company in late 2009 with just 17 cents in her pocket. The serial entrepreneur had several businesses fail, but she wanted to try her hand at a commercial construction company just one more time. “Risk taker is just who I am,” Ariane says. “I don’t think I would have been able to come this far without being one. How do we turn that risk into possibility?”

Beyond their professional contributions, Black women in construction are also champions of diversity and inclusion. They actively advocate for equitable hiring practices, mentorship programs, and initiatives aimed at empowering underrepresented groups within the industry. “Although having the opportunity to be involved as an integral part of ensuring equity and inclusion on major projects throughout our city is invigorating, my favorite part of my job is creatively seeking ways to engage our community’s underrepresented youth and expose them to this robust industry,” says AKA’s Chief Diversity Officer, Aria Johnson . By leveraging their platforms and networks, they are instrumental in creating more welcoming and inclusive environments where individuals from diverse backgrounds can thrive and succeed. “I hear far too often that diverse talent is hard to find, especially in highly specialized trades. It is my goal through the development of our future workforce, to be integral in closing that gap.”?

However, despite their progress, Black women in construction still face challenges and barriers: persistent gender and racial biases, unequal opportunities for advancement, and workplace discrimination remain prevalent. It is imperative for the industry to actively work towards eliminating these barriers and fostering an environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Greater representation of Black women in leadership roles and decision-making positions is essential for driving systemic change within the construction industry. By promoting diversity at all levels and amplifying the voices of Black women, construction firms can harness a wealth of talent, creativity, and innovation that will propel the industry forward.

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