Construction Drives Women To Consider Leaving

Every single woman in the AEC industry is thinking about quitting.

Yes, 100% of women in a recent survey reported considering leaving their jobs, driven by relentless biases, stereotypes, and a lack of inclusivity. This shocking reality exposes just how dire the situation has become for women in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction.

When we compare this to other fields, the numbers tell an even more pressing story. Women in engineering leave their roles at twice the rate of men, with about 70% of women leaving the profession within 20 years, while only 35% of men make the same exit.

So, why is this happening?

The answers are deeply rooted in workplace cultures: lack of advancement opportunities, heightened discrimination and permeating toxic environments which make it hard for women, especially women of color, to stay. For women in the AEC industry, these factors are even more pronounced, with retention challenges more severe than in other STEM fields. The numbers point to a critical issue—AEC is not doing enough to support, retain, and advance women.

What can the industry do to change this trajectory?

First and foremost, workplace culture needs to evolve. This means addressing the ingrained biases that drive women out, creating meaningful pathways for career development and ensuring that women have equitable opportunities for advancement.?

Secondly, organizations need to commit to inclusivity at every level—from leadership roles to entry-level positions. Only when women see themselves reflected in leadership and decision-making positions will the retention numbers begin to shift.

Lastly, the AEC industry must take a long-term view: DEI isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a necessary foundation for growth, innovation, and success in the future. Addressing discrimination, promoting equity, and fostering inclusive work environments are not just moral imperatives—they’re strategic advantages.

By integrating DEI principles into talent management strategies, companies can address these systemic barriers, foster inclusive workplace cultures, and ensure women not only stay but thrive in engineering, particularly in male-dominated sectors like AEC.

The future of AEC depends on retaining diverse talent and creating a work environment where women—and all underrepresented professionals—can thrive.

Are you ready to help build this future?

If so be sure to book a call with Michele Heyward at calendly.com/positivehire/partnering-with-positivehire

AEC Leaders Retaining Your Most Valuable Asset: Talent

Stop the Revolving Door: Build a Thriving AEC Workforce

The AEC industry faces a critical challenge: a looming talent shortage. By 2027, the US is projected to lack a staggering 600,000 engineers and 2.7 million skilled laborers. Even amidst this competitive market, many AEC organizations struggle to retain their existing talent, especially young and experienced professionals, including Black and women engineers.

What's the cause, and more importantly, what can be done?

This webinar equips AEC leaders with a comprehensive "Roadmap to Talent Retention."

We'll explore the root causes of employee turnover and equip you with actionable strategies to:

? Cultivate a work environment that fosters inclusion and empowers all talent to thrive and contribute their best.

? Develop targeted strategies to retain young professionals and experienced engineers.

? Bridge the gap for Black and women engineers in the AEC industry.

Don't let your most valuable asset walk out the door!

Register today and learn how to build a strong talent pipeline and retain your top performers.

This webinar will benefit you if you are an AEC leader who wants to:

? Understand the current talent landscape and its impact on your organization.

? Develop effective strategies to attract, engage, and retain top talent.

? Create a more inclusive and diverse workforce that fuels innovation and success.

Take control of your talent destiny.

Register for the this week's webinar on Monday, November 25 at 2 pm ET here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAvc-Gqpz8iEtHUSn6J70kvsQBoapTmdONp

Podcast Interview: Disrupting the Future of Infrastructure

In this episode of Disruption Interruption, host KJ Helms and Michele Heyward discuss the challenges faced by women of color in STEM fields, the need for structural changes in workplace culture, and the economic impact of failing to embrace DE&I.

The conversation also covers the practical aspects of community engagement, addressing workforce shortages, and the significance of inclusive infrastructure initiatives.

Key Takeaways:

03:17 Michele's Journey into Civil Engineering

07:02 Challenges Faced by Women of Color in STEM

09:39 The Impact of Diversity on Engineering and Society

19:09 Community Engagement and Its Importance

24:15 Understanding Workforce Turnover

26:44 The Glass Cliff Phenomenon

30:06 Impact of Employee Attrition

43:51 Mid-Market Companies and Talent Retention

Quote of the Show (18:00):

"DEI is not going away. Some people may change the terminology, but if we do not grasp diversity, equity, inclusion in the workplace, we're in for a world of hurt around our infrastructure." - Michele Heyward

Listen to the full interview here.