Construction industry needs women

BALANCE: Women are being encouraged to join the construction industry. PHOTO: BCITO

Manawatu's building industry is set to grow by at least 1 per cent over the next three years increasing the demand for skilled workers.

The forecast, from the Ministry of Innovation, Business and Employment, is being used to support the critical need for apprentices in the construction sector.

The Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation says the need places the spotlight on the potential for more women to join the industry.

BCITO chief executive Ruma Karaitiana said in 2016/17 the demand for new houses was forecasted at more than 28,000 but the current labour market was only able to support the building of 15,000 per year.

"The industry needs to train more people and they need to do it now. Our traditional workforce pools are shrinking and, if you're running out of people, you've got to be diverse and look for them somewhere else."

The BCITO are now working in partnership with various organisations to recruit more females.

"We absolutely need more diversity in the construction industry. Going forward employers interested in attracting the best people need to ensure that any unconscious bias is addressed. If you let stereotypes influence your hiring practices and you are reluctant to hire women for example, then instantly the talent pool is reduced by 50 per cent."

To support the initiative BCITO have brought together eight apprentices who will build "not your average shed" -- a modern version of the Kiwi shed. The event is being used to highlight the shortage while showcasing innovation in the industry.

"Research shows that diverse companies outpace homogeneous companies in terms of performance and productivity. When you're on-site it's about attitude not gender," Mr Karaitiana said. "The female apprentices taking part in Not Your Average Shed are a perfect example of what women in this industry can achieve."

Last year women made up 17.5 per cent of the industry and two have been chosen to take part in the build.

Carla Tonga is one and said it would be fantastic to see more females in trades.

"We need to focus on getting good tradies, regardless of gender -- it's about attitude, willingness to learn, and understanding that it's a team environment, not a battle of the sexes."

BCITO provide a range of apprenticeships across 15 trades within the building and construction industry. Any budding apprentices can head down to Sylvia Park to watch the action live, or find out more at BCITO.TV.