Women in Real Estate

Quick – name a powerhouse woman in real estate development or construction. Not so easy?

Leading up to the 4th Annual Women in Real Estate Symposium, I reflected on being a woman in a male- dominated real estate industry. On a personal note, I was once asked in a career day event “Why should I hire a woman, when I can hire a man?” Let’s pause for a moment. Flabbergasted by the fact that a man would feel emboldened to express dominance and put down a woman? As a young 20-year-old, eager, enthusiastic student pursuing a degree in architecture, it opened my eyes to the reality of the industry and society.

While women have squeezed their way into architecture and increasing engineering firms thanks to the increase in STEM programs, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows approximately 10% of construction industry workers are female. Architecture and engineering fare a little better at about 27% of workers in the sector, but are still far from the 47% of women that make up the nation’s workforce.

While sexism is part of a larger structural problem in society, for years the AEC industry has had lower pay, slower advancement, and exclusion in the day-to-day work life for women. There is optimism about equality, though much action still needs to take place to support women entering the workforce. Schools are making strong efforts to increase STEM and diversity efforts, but it extends beyond universities and into receiving interviews, entry level jobs, promotions, and leadership positions.

During COVID, real estate development and construction has grown drastically. More deals and more projects means more space for women. Additionally, it has been shown that diverse teams are more productive and typically more profitable. I challenge our generation to help support the change. One step you can do is to welcome women to the next discussion – let them have a voice at the table next to you.

How can real estate companies support women in the industry?