Project manager Joanna Rowley said: "Women could and should be helping to shape their environment and society during the 21 st century. And yet the figures show that they have scarcely penetrated the industry at any level. We will reap the negative consequences if we fail to act creatively now to address this problem. We set out to find some answers, and to develop some possible ways forward"
In a survey of students on construction-related courses in further education, both male and female respondents were largely of the opinion that women were capable of doing any kind of job, from architect to painter and decorator, and that there was a broad equality of opportunity.
In contrast, however, a majority of students in higher education felt that the industry does not offer equal career opportunities for men and women.
The majority of respondents cited the main reasons as the attitude of fellow-workers or gender issues in general and physical or environmental factors ie site conditions or the working environment.
Joanna Rowley said: "By tackling these issues and attitudes that are at the forefront, the industry needs to work positively to change negative perceptions. The TVCBC has put mechanisms in place to help with the recruitment of females and the framework to exchange information and advice."
Source
Building Sustainable Design
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