Nationwide Census Shows Women Represent Small Construction Share

•7mo ago

Nationwide Census Shows Women Represent Small Construction Share

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United States. New U.S. Census Bureau data show 11.7% of payroll employees in the construction industry are women, while the sector faces an estimated 349,000-worker shortage. The Department of Labor's Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) grant program has awarded millions in recent years to increase female participation. Construction Coverage analysis indicates a steady, gradual rise in women’s share of construction employment across states. Local outlets reported state-by-state rankings this week highlighting variation from low-ranking states to top performers. Government data and grant announcements underpin these findings. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

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United States. New U.S. Census Bureau data show 11.7% of payroll employees in the construction industry are women, while the sector faces an estimated 349,000-worker shortage. The Department of Labor's Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) grant program has awarded millions in recent years to increase female participation. Construction Coverage analysis indicates a steady, gradual rise in women’s share of construction employment across states. Local outlets reported state-by-state rankings this week highlighting variation from low-ranking states to top performers. Government data and grant announcements underpin these findings. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Published 2026-03-02 22:19:41 UTC · Published by JQJO

Published by JQJO Editorial Desk · AI assisted

More context

Timeline

1. Historically: Construction remained predominantly male with low female workforce share.
2. Recent: U.S. Census Bureau released workforce data showing women at 11.7% of construction payrolls.
3. Recent years: Department of Labor allocated WANTO grants worth millions to boost women’s participation.
4. Recent reporting: Analysts identified an approximate 349,000-worker shortage in construction.
5. This week: Local outlets published state-by-state rankings using Construction Coverage and Census analysis.

Why it matters

The construction industry's worker shortage could affect your community. Projects may take longer or cost more. If you know women interested in construction, encourage them to explore opportunities. The WANTO grants could provide training and support.