The construction industry, traditionally male-dominated, is becoming more attractive to women, with women making up over 30% of Suffolk Construction's team and leading large projects.

Women can pursue careers in construction, finding purpose and making an impact.

Challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers in STEM education and careers is essential to increase women's participation in the construction industry.

Leadership must foster a positive workplace culture and embed inclusion efforts to achieve gender parity.

Technology and innovation can increase women's participation in construction, especially in roles like crane operation.

Technology can provide new opportunities for women in construction, creating a more level playing field.

Mentorship and training can help women succeed in technical construction positions.

The construction industry can benefit from technology like smart solutions, wearables, and exoskeletons to improve productivity and reduce waste and injuries.

Automation, AI, and drone technology can make construction safer and more efficient, creating new opportunities for women.

To increase women's participation in construction, training, work-life balance support, and learning opportunities are essential.

Government initiatives can promote gender equality in the construction industry.

Empowering women in construction promotes gender equality and brings valuable contributions.

Women hold only 10.9 percent of construction jobs, but can pursue lucrative careers with the right support.

The GIRL Day event aims to educate women about construction careers and increase their industry participation.

Breaking down traditional gender barriers in construction requires a multi-faceted approach including education, training, mentorship, and technology.

Companies can attract female drivers by offering tailored training and equipment.

WANTT offers pre-apprenticeship programs for women in construction, teaching tool usage, blueprint reading, and providing OSHA and CPR certifications.

The Step Up for Women Construction Program is a tuition-free training program preparing women for construction positions and apprenticeships in trades like carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and welding.

West Virginia Women Work and the Step Up for Women Construction Program help women explore nontraditional occupations and build confidence and soft skills.

The SLCC Power Lineman program teaches lineworker skills, first aid, and CDL license training, and supports women entering male-dominated fields.

Intechcom created a hyperrealistic VR simulator for training crane operators.

The VR simulator aids career guidance, reduces equipment damage risk, and provides a realistic crane operating experience.

MDOT created an on-the-job training program to recruit women and minorities to construction crews.

The Women into Home Building Employment Programme and Women into Construction support and train female construction workers.

GFL Environmental offers a paid 10-week training program for non-experienced drivers to meet job requirements.

Concrete Ontario introduced FAQs and surveyed women to improve recruitment and retention.

The Home Builders Federation and Persimmon Homes support initiatives to increase female representation, including funded training and childcare.

Noura, who learned to drive a loader, was bullied by society but supported by a training center in Assiut.

The training center and her husband supported Noura's decision to learn heavy equipment.

Women can overcome physical challenges to succeed as crane operators with targeted training and development.

Female crane operators can break into male-dominated fields like offshore wind power through training programs with financial incentives.

Crane operator training programs provide professional skills, employability, and safety certificates, like those from the Global Wind Organisation.

Global Wind Service offers job opportunities for certified female crane operators.

Women can succeed as crane operators with determination and support, despite facing bullying and societal opposition.

Training centers provide support for women to learn technical skills like heavy equipment operation.

Mobile Crane Operation can be offered in training programs alongside other vocational courses.

These programs provide globally recognized certification, bridging academic training and industry practice.

West Virginia Women Work offers tuition-free training in nontraditional occupations like construction and crane operation.

The Step Up for Women Construction Program prepares women for construction positions and apprenticeships in trades like carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and welding.

Forklift certification, requiring OSHA approval and training, is important for women in construction and maritime industries.

Companies can provide targeted training for women to succeed in male-dominated fields.

Women comprise only 1.8% of the mining workforce, despite demand for females with skills in areas like public safety, occupational health, and technical operations.

Companies can address the shortage of women in construction and maritime by offering paid training and tailoring job postings to attract female candidates.

Women can obtain crane operation certifications, such as Fixed Crane and Mobile crane operation, through training and technical skills exams.

The Ministry of Labor provides training and technical skills registration for migrant workers, including women, to obtain crane operation certifications.

Tata Steel Meramandali is promoting gender balance and providing training for female operators, including on-the-job training and safety induction.

The government can promote gender equality in construction and maritime by offering training and encouraging companies to hire women.

Li Rui, a female tower crane driver, is an example of a woman succeeding in a male-dominated field, and companies can provide training to help others follow.

Diverse teams drive innovation and business success, increasing earnings by 25% or more.

Diverse teams, including female leadership, bring higher earnings, empathy, and creativity.

Creating an inclusive environment starts with executive training and diversity strategies in business plans.

Professional development programs can support female career growth and promote societal and company benefits through inclusion.

Georgia Harper, a 22-year-old trainee site engineer, aims to break down stereotypes in the building industry through apprenticeship and training.

US construction women comprise 14.1 percent of the sector, with about a third working in deals.

A quarter of women on construction sites faced sexual harassment, while half experienced unequal treatment.

Female construction apprentices nearly doubled from 2016 to 2019, led by Latinas.

Leighton offers paid maternity and paternity leave and flexible work policies to support work-life balance.

Leighton established a WOICE network to support female employees and aims for equal gender representation in interns and trainees.

Ukrainian women are filling "male" professions due to labor shortages, with companies like Meest and ATB employing all-women teams.

Ferrexpo has increased women in leadership by 60% since 2020, targeting 25% by 2030.

Fewer than 5% of Global 500 companies have female CEOs, despite diverse teams being more innovative.

Addressing stigmas and biases is essential for creating open and safe environments where junior employees feel encouraged to speak up.

Tata Steel hired its first female Stacker-cum Reclaimer operators and a woman Hyva operator, breaking gender barriers.

The construction industry, traditionally male-dominated, is becoming more attractive to women, with women making up over 30% of Suffolk Construction's team and leading large projects.

Title:

Content: OPINION

South Florida's builders want you

Stephen Chang
View Comments

Fact: More than 30 million Americans quit their jobs this year and a record high of 4.4 million people left their employer in September, according to the latest jobs report. The ‘Great Resignation’ is showing no signs of slowing.

Fact: Florida will receive approximately $19 billion from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, according to the White House.

As South Florida's economy steadily recovers from the pandemic, federal funding for new local projects can provide a much-needed boost to the construction industry, drive growth for the region and create lasting job opportunities for millions of middle- and working-class Floridians.

However, with growing demand for new development outpacing the number of professionals joining the workforce, our region must increase the construction labor pool to reap these benefits and provide the necessary housing and social infrastructure for the growing population.

Yet, convincing a new generation of workers to pursue a career in construction has not been easy. Construction is often overlooked as an option for individuals who earned degrees in business management, liberal arts and organizational behavior, and even in many cases degrees in construction management and engineering. But the reality is more college graduates should give a second look to careers in construction because of the potential for growth and exposure to different skill sets. No longer an industry of just hard hats and cranes, construction has transformed from blue collar to white collar. Construction today is an industry of innovation and technology.

Pixels, virtual models, AI and data are as critical cement, steel and bricks. The construction industry of today presents many career options for tech-savvy individuals who enjoy working on teams, solving sophisticated challenges, and creating something tangible that can literally transform a city skyline.

While still considered by many to be male-dominated, the construction industry is also more attractive to women than ever before. There are opportunities for women who enjoy managing people, serving clients or building things. For example, at Suffolk Construction, more than 30% of our South Florida team is female, and the project team that managed construction of the iconic guitar-shaped Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood Hotel was a women-led team and the trade partners hired for the project represented more than 23 nations.

The pandemic inspired many professionals to leave their jobs in search of more meaningful careers where they can make an impact and feel valued. Careers in construction can provide these professionals a sense of purpose and an opportunity to be a part of something greater than themselves. To be a part of a team that builds something tangible that will last for generations.

The year 2022 is expected to be an historic year of growth for South Florida. The migration of people to Florida from cities throughout the United States will greatly increase the demand for housing, which will also increases the demand for schools, hospitals, municipal buildings, retail, offices and entertainment centers. The future has never been brighter for the construction industry.Individuals interested in building an exciting and sustainable career should give building construction a closer look.

Stephen Chang is chief operating officer in West Palm Beach for Suffolk Construction Co.

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How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

How has the level of discrimination for female employees in the construction industry changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

appoint women to traditionally male roles

commit to gender equality in hiring practices

Women can pursue careers in construction, finding purpose and making an impact.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

How has the level of discrimination for female employees in the construction industry changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

Why are construction and maritime industries more popular with women nowadays?

Challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers in STEM education and careers is essential to increase women's participation in the construction industry.

Title:

Content: Image: © Clancy Riehm/Stock.adobe.com

Ada Lovelace Day: Champion women role models to break down barriers

1 hour ago

Six women share their thoughts and experiences on Ada Lovelace Day, which aims to raise the profile of women in STEM and create new role models for young girls.

Earlier this year, on 8 March, which just happens to be International Women’s Day, we reported that women in the tech sector in Ireland were not faring as well as their global counterparts. That was according to a report by PwC that found that Ireland lagged behind other OECD countries when it came to how empowered women felt at work.

Gender pay gap disparities, lack of supports for women and other socio-economic factors could be contributors to this, but the problem is not just in Ireland. According to a 2022 report, only 35pc of STEM students in higher education in the UK are women, putting the talent pipeline there at serious risk.

This Ada Lovelace Day, which falls annually on 10 October, we heard from six women tech leaders championing the cause of encouraging more girls to consider a career in STEM sectors. Of course, it is worth noting that Ada Lovelace Day today and International Women’s Day on 8 March are only two days out of a very long year. As we have written previously, women in STEM need to be valued all year round. There will be no more Ada Lovelaces, Grace Hoppers, Jocelyn Bell Burnells or Gladys Wests if we don’t get our acts together. So, how can we do that?

Increase the visibility of women role models

For many girls, the first hurdle to exploring a career in STEM is a lack of representation or role models. Unfortunately, a lack of diversity maintains the feeling that girls do not belong in the industry – although that is simply not the case.

Mary-Christine Nolan, VP of global professional services at Pluralsight, is all too familiar with this challenge. “I started my career as an engineer working in cybersecurity – an industry under constant pressure to innovate and deliver – and I understand the challenges that a career in STEM can bring. And having spoken to secondary school students, I know that very few young women see themselves in the industry. However, the opportunities for rewarding careers are in abundance – but we need more representation to show girls it is a viable career path for them,” she says.

“On days like today, it is imperative that we celebrate the success of female role models in tech to help inspire the next generation of talent to join the industry.”

Barbara Maigret, global head of sustainability at Fortinet is also a firm believer that women role models are a key to inspiring the next generation of talent. “When encouraging more women into STEM, it is useful to shine a light on those who have pioneered women’s place in the industry.”

Ada Lovelace was celebrated for her remarkable contribution to the computing industry. Maigret recognises this type of figurehead, pointing out that “Ada Lovelace Day acts as a good reminder that we need to showcase more inspirational female leaders in STEM to inspire the next generation and be a guiding force for those who want to enter the industry”.

Challenge stereotypes and give everyone a voice

CyberArk’s Renske Galema, area vice-president of Northern Europe, highlights the importance of never giving up on the mission to break stereotypes – especially around cybersecurity. “Working in this sector is often viewed as a job centred around technical skills and long hours, which puts people off and has played a large part in it becoming a male-dominated industry,” she says.

“The reality of the matter is these technical skills can be taught on the job and softer, more human skills, such as being able to communicate effectively, are equally as important.”

Ultimately, the responsibility for change must come from the top. Claire Montgomery, senior director of software engineering at Globalization Partners, believes that leadership has a strong role to play in fostering a positive workplace culture. “In my journey from a technical background to a leadership role, I’ve come to realise that leadership extends beyond technical expertise; it’s about making a meaningful impact on the lives and careers of others. In particular, it has always been very important to me to champion other women in STEM careers in order to create a more diverse and inclusive tech industry.

“Of course, how to do this can vary significantly across regions, particularly within global teams, so it is important to give every team member an equal voice and opportunity to contribute,” Montgomery says.

Sue-Ellen Wright, managing director of aerospace, defence and security at Sopra Steria, also echoes this view. “Addressing gender imbalance in tech will be key to widening our talent pool and narrowing the skills gap. Everyone working in the defence industry should be interested in encouraging more women to develop and use their digital skills, not just in school but throughout their careers. But it’s not just about skills and numbers. We also have to create a workplace culture where everyone can thrive.”

Supercharging the economy with a wider talent pool

By encouraging more women into the technology industry, the world will be better equipped with the expertise needed to drive innovation and growth. For Stacey Moser, CCO at Universal Robots, its stance is clear saying, “One of our primary responsibilities at Universal Robots is to unlock human potential. In alignment with this, I would encourage women aspiring to study STEM subjects or pursue leadership roles in the tech industry to follow your interests and pursue subjects that truly ignite your curiosity and passion.”

Closing the gender gap will go a long way towards filling in-demand roles and developing new solutions with diverse perspectives. Sticking with the status quo will stifle growth, so we must empower young girls to broaden their horizons through the creation of women role models and break down the stereotypes that have long existing in the tech industry.

10 things you need to know direct to your inbox every weekday. Sign up for the Daily Brief, Silicon Republic’s digest of essential sci-tech news.

By Blathnaid O’Dea

Blathnaid O’Dea joined Silicon Republic in 2021 as Careers reporter, coming from a background in the Humanities. She likes people, pranking, pictures of puffins – and apparently alliteration.

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What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

What challenges do women in the construction and maritime  industries face?

Leadership must foster a positive workplace culture and embed inclusion efforts to achieve gender parity.

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5 key takeaways for DEI in maritime

Photo: Diversity Study Group
Heidi Heseltine founder of Diversity Study Group
Effective diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are built on clear insight, agreed upon outcomes, and targeted approaches — intentionally working to avoid the inevitable pitfalls of a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach.

Drawing on data-led insights from members of the Diversity Study Group (DSG), Founder Heidi Heseltine offers 5 key insights on getting the basics right in maritime.

1. Building inclusion throughout an organisation’s levels

We know that shipping has made vital progress in recruiting and retaining women in certain sectors over the last few years, with significant effort put in into achieving a more gender balanced workforce. For instance, we’ve seen improvements in closing the gap in more junior/trainee levels and in management positions — though these numbers drop off at head of department and director roles, indicating fewer women in executive and senior roles.

While the knee-jerk reaction to this would be to specifically target greater inclusion only at specific tiers of management — which is often effective and can look great on corporate ESG registers — organisations should look to embed and maintain inclusion efforts at all levels, so that gender-parity is reflected throughout the business whether lower level or higher. After all, we know from well-established research that when women make up 30% in any given decision-making forum they stop being treated as ‘exceptional’ and additional women are not seen as particularly remarkable or threatening. This can be particularly key for creating welcoming spaces and proactively preventing backlash to DEI efforts, where possible. If the goal is embedding sustainable and resilient DEI practices, then our focus must be on ensuring that having women in all spaces in reasonable numbers is not the exception, but the rule.

2. Avoiding seeing women in maritime as a monolith

Women are diverse in their requirements of a workplace and its culture, and should not be lumped into a single group defined by our presumptions. When considering what DEI approaches work best at sea or even on shore, we need to account for the fact that our global workforces are culturally diverse and have different levels of awareness when it comes to gender, age, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, neurodiversity and gender identity, amongst others. Societal norms, local legislation, and what is understood as ‘diverse’ can vary based on lived experience as well as the demographics of those involved. Understanding what is important to the women in individual workplaces and how we as an industry can support them will help us develop appropriate action plans for the short and long term.

3. Creating support systems to enable gender parity in technical positions

Technical positions, fleet and port management are slower to evidence change and inclusion when compared to progress seen in more traditionally female-led fields like maritime finance, Human Resources (HR), and Communications and Marketing. Organisations keen to address this disparity might benefit from creating training programs that include mentorship initiatives, skill-building workshops, and leadership development opportunities tailored to women in technical fields. This can foster confidence for the employee and their co-worker, help establish relationships for them to draw on in the workplace, and ensure they have the sector-specific knowledge and tools that they need to succeed.

4. Fostering relationships and embedding peer support

Following on from the previous point, peer support often plays a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive workplace but this doesn’t mean that disparities may not persist among different groups of people. Working with DSG, I’ve seen factors such as nationality, culture, ethnicity, and location all help or hinder DEI efforts. This is why it is crucial to closely monitor changes in perceptions, especially during challenging industry conditions, to prevent any employee from feeling undervalued or unsupported since this can impact engagement, efficiency and productivity. It’s important that organisations proactively work to recognise and address any issues in morale, which then helps maintain employee wellbeing and ensures a continued level of performance and investment in the organisation’s goals. Regular feedback mechanisms and evolving and updated policies can help support better company culture.

5. The support of leadership in successful DEI practices

Data from our members at DSG indicates that simply having knowledge of an organisation's commitment to equality, with good intentions evolving to well-researched and considered action and policy, significantly boosts confidence in fair treatment. This is often irrespective of group affiliations benefiting from such policies — everyone benefits from the process.

This confidence in a company’s commitments not only supports recruitment and retention — as establishing a sense of belonging and fairness often attracts dedicated workers and keeps them — but often helps elevate the public and private profiles of the organisation and its leaders.

The future of our workforce is global; to remain competitive within and outside of our industry, embedding fair practices and equality is likely to be a key differentiator for success.

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

Technology and innovation can increase women's participation in construction, especially in roles like crane operation.

Title:

Content: Sunday, 10 March 2024 06: 36 GMT
Dubai Electricity ’ s strategies have enabled women to make decisions
(MENAFN- Al-Bayan)
On the occasion of International Women ’ s Day 2024, female leaders at Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) have affirmed that DEWA has many fair and inclusive strategies and policies that support gender equality and women ’ s participation in decision-making, indicating that DEWA provides a positive and happy working environment that motivates female employees to continue working hard and hard. It also provides equal opportunities for men and women and focuses on women ’ s empowerment, from leadership to technical positions.
Mariam Al Mutaiwi, Deputy Head of Human Resources Sector, said: “The senior management of the Authority is keen to benefit from the unlimited support provided by the wise leadership to enhance the process of supporting and empowering women and investing in people.
The Authority ’ s efforts to expand women ’ s participation in climate action and increase their contributions to the energy and clean and renewable energy sector have honed the skills of its female staff, especially Emirati female staff and engineers, to establish the authority ’ s position globally. The Authority has many fair and inclusive strategies and policies that support gender equality and women ’ s participation in decision-making.
Fatima Al Joker, Chairperson of the Women ’ s Committee, said: “We support the Authority ’ s efforts to provide a positive and happy working environment that motivates female employees to continue working hard and to enhance their effective role in establishing the Authority as one of the best and most prominent service organizations in the world. For them, to balance their professional and family lives.
Continuing professional development, recording more luminous achievements in serving the nation and building future generations, and we attach special importance to highlighting inspiring and honorable models, and appreciating their success and excellence, to remain an example to be followed in constructive national work.
Expand participation
Dr. Aisha Al Nuaimi, Director of Innovation Center, added that the Authority is investing in innovation, research and digital transformation, in addition to the latest disruptive technologies to expand women ’ s participation in the energy, engineering and technical sectors.
The Authority provides equal opportunities for men and women and focuses on the empowerment of women from leadership positions to technical positions, making it a role model for institutions and government and private entities inside and outside the country.
On a daily basis, the Authority ’ s female employees record honorable images of dedication, diligence and excellence, proving that they are confident and responsible, and confirming their merit in winning more awards and honors.
For her part, Engineer Haifa Busamra, Vice President - Launching Transport Networks, pointed out that the Authority is sparing no effort to provide all the capabilities that help female employees in different positions and responsibilities to succeed and develop, keep abreast of the new changes, and continue their education and acquire knowledge and expertise, in order to help them turn challenges into opportunities.
Leadership Approach
Aisha Al Rumaithi, President of the Authority ’ s Youth Council and Deputy Director of the Innovation Environment System at the Innovation Centre, stressed that the senior management of the Authority is following the wise leadership ’ s approach to consolidate the pioneering and inspiring experience of the UAE in empowering women and youth and investing in their capabilities.
Equipping them with the skills, tools and opportunities, and encouraging them to find innovative and sustainable solutions, to be critical contributors to achieving carbon neutrality and accelerating the energy transition, especially as women and children are the most affected by the consequences of climate change.
For her part, Aisha Al-Assam, Vice President of the Women ’ s Committee, said: “The Committee is committed to providing all opportunities, conditions and possibilities that help female employees in different positions and responsibilities to succeed and develop, to achieve happiness for them and their families. ”
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How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

appoint women to traditionally male roles

Technology can provide new opportunities for women in construction, creating a more level playing field.

Title:

Content: Developing the Next Generation of Maritime Professionals

By Elpi Petraki

As technology advances and the shipping industry looks at how it can decarbonize effectively, we hear a lot about “future-proof” solutions. However, in order to truly future-proof the industry, we need to understand the needs of seafarers and shore-based staff today so we can effectively invest in the next generation: the industry’s future leaders.

The shipping industry is one of the oldest industries in the world, and its vast range of shore-based and at-sea job roles offers a huge variety of career opportunities. However, a global labor shortage means that there is strong competition from other industries for new talent.

To attract that talent, we first need to understand what motivates the next generation. Deloitte’s 2022 Gen Z and Millennial Survey provides some interesting insights. In uncertain times, the survey puts cost of living and climate change as top current concerns overall.

Where selecting an employer is concerned, work/life balance and learning/development opportunities are the top criteria, closely followed by salary and benefits. However, diversity and inclusion and the societal and environmental impact of organizations were also shown to be key factors when it came to retention; many respondents said they would turn down a job if it failed to align with their personal values.

Educating Future Leaders

To attract the next generation of leaders, shipping would, therefore, be well advised to redouble efforts to collaborate with educational institutes so that training and career development paths reflect today’s priorities.

The work WISTA does to support women in shipping is relevant here, as it facilitates continuous professional development and encourages training courses that help equip women with the skills they need to progress in their careers.

WISTA Hellas, for example, is working closely with prominent educational institutes and offers full- and part-time scholarships, which are available to any woman working in the maritime industry. Opportunities include the Alba Graduate Business School’s M.B.A. in shipping, an M.S. in logistics and supply chain management from BCA College and the University of Piraeus’s M.S. in ship management. We have also partnered with the Alba Graduate Business School to provide a leadership program specifically for women in maritime.

At an international level, WISTA and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) offer five scholarships each year for the institute’s foundation diploma, and last year WISTA International launched the Maritime SheEO Leadership Accelerator Programme in partnership with the International Maritime Organization. The accelerator provides women with the management knowledge and skills they need to progress into leadership positions while creating visible role models within the industry.

There are several other initiatives designed to encourage students and young maritime professionals. For instance, in Greece, the Young Executive Shipping (YES) Forum provides a platform for open dialogue between the industry, students and young professionals to bridge the generational gap and to share knowledge and experience. Isalos.net organizes a range of industry events to promote opportunities in the maritime industry, in addition to hosting an online careers platform for cadets.

Other organizations are also responding to the need to develop the next generation of maritime professionals. The Maritime Port Authority in Singapore recently appointed 18 students to be the first MaritimeSG Youth Ambassadors, and the city of Rotterdam has established a Young Maritime Board to participate in the Rotterdam, Maritime Capital of Europe program.

Addressing Recruitment Challenges

In the more immediate term, the 2021 BIMCO/ICS Seafarer Workforce Report predicted that by 2026, there will be a need for almost 90,000 additional STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping)-certified officers as demand for seafarers to operate the world’s merchant fleet continues to outstrip supply. The situation was surely exacerbated by COVID-19, which exposed or highlighted unappealing aspects of a career at sea.

For example, work/life balance, crew connectivity, security on board and differing legal systems around the world are just some of the challenges faced by seafarers, which can have a negative impact on job satisfaction or crew retention.

As an industry, we need to find solutions to provide seafarers with greater support, such as implementing work patterns that increase shore leave; investing in policies and processes that promote greater diversity and inclusion by creating the right environment on board for everyone; enabling existing crew to receive training and to upskill as new technologies are introduced; and ensuring a safe and secure working environment for all.

Digitalization and New Technologies

New technologies should also create new roles that are more in tune with the skill sets of the younger generation, making the industry a more attractive option, particularly when digital solutions are being used to address issues such as decarbonization.

The demand for digital skills within the global workforce will only continue to increase, and we can see this being translated in school curriculums, where there is a greater focus on STEM subjects and the introduction of computer coding at primary levels of education.

Digitalization also provides a level playing field. Going forward, my prediction is that more women will be recruited into maritime technology roles, as men and women are equally qualified to embark on such careers.

We have an ambitious and tech-savvy cohort of young professionals with a desire to make a difference. But as an industry, we must act together to raise awareness of the array of opportunities on offer within shipping and to actively engage with the next generation to secure a sustainable future for the industry.

Elpi Petraki is president of WISTA Hellas and works at the Greek ship management company ENEA Management, which is her family business.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

How has the level of discrimination for female employees in the construction industry changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

Why are construction and maritime industries more popular with women nowadays?

Mentorship and training can help women succeed in technical construction positions.

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

educational programs
mentorship opportunities
vocational training

The construction industry can benefit from technology like smart solutions, wearables, and exoskeletons to improve productivity and reduce waste and injuries.

Title:

Content: Smart Construction: The Right Equipment For Your Next Project

By Richard

The construction sector stands on the precipice of a digital reformation. In contrast to past innovations that primarily increased equipment size and strength, the current wave focuses on intelligent technologies that boost connectivity, automation, safety, and insight across sites. Embracing these smart construction solutions demands some initial investment, but the potential gains make that cost worthwhile. These tools can pay dividends over time via improved productivity, asset oversight, waste reduction, and prevention of budget overages.

For contractors and construction company managers, keeping pace with the latest equipment offerings from a Komatsu equipment dealer and others—and determining their business value—poses a real challenge. Every build and renovation has unique parameters, budgets, and goals. As you plan upcoming projects, leverage this review of pioneering solutions for remodeling modern construction. It spotlights critical benefits and applications of top technologies like wearables, IoT sensors, AI-fueled software, robotics, and drone systems.

Carefully weighing your needs against the transformative capabilities of smart construction technology allows you to optimize value. The right equipment choices can lift safety, efficiency, and margins across your operations. Beginning this integration now future-proofs your company as the industry transitions to data-powered, technologically sophisticated methods. It keeps your business on the cutting edge as the construction landscape becomes more competitive.

Wearable Technologies

Smart wearables are one of the fastest-growing categories of technologies on job sites. These Internet-connected devices allow workers to access information and communicate hands-free.

Exoskeletons

 Exoskeletons are body suits with mechanical braces that augment human strength and endurance. They reduce injury risks for workers doing heavy lifting or repetitive motions. Most models let the user lift over 200 pounds safely.

Smart Helmets

Smart safety helmets have built-in technology capabilities. Some feature cameras and microphones for recording work activities. Others have headlamps, noise cancellation, and air quality monitoring sensors. Some helmets integrate with virtual and augmented reality apps.

Smart Vest

Smart safety vests enable equipment operators or spotters to be more visible. These sensor-enabled vests can also track workers’ vital signs, such as body temperature, heart rate, and respiration rate. GPS tracking helps monitor locations and movements.

Internet of Things Sensors

Internet of Things (IoT) sensors have become indispensable on construction sites. These connected devices can track assets, materials, equipment, and workforce activities.

Equipment Telematics

Telematics systems collect operating data from heavy machinery. This allows remote monitoring of equipment health, performance, maintenance needs, and more. Telematics improves utilization rates and prevents downtime.

Wearable Monitors

 Smart wearables for equipment allow touchless monitoring. Operators wear a bracelet that vibrates to alert them of issues like oil temperature spikes or blocked air filters. This heads off problems before they lead to breakdowns.

Automation and Robotics

From autonomous vehicles to AI-powered apps, smart automation is reshaping construction.

Self-driving Vehicles

Companies are piloting self-driving trucks, bulldozers, cranes, and other heavy machines. This automation enables precision activities to be done more safely.

AI Scheduling Tools

Artificial intelligence programs can create optimized construction schedules in minutes rather than weeks. They factor in sequencing, staffing, materials and equipment availability. They also adjust schedules to accommodate change orders.

Automated Inspections

Drone technology and AI-powered imaging tools are being used for automated inspections. This allows comprehensive monitoring of site activity and asset condition reports to be generated much faster.

The innovative technologies discussed here represent just a sampling of what the future holds for smart construction. Carefully evaluating your needs and priorities will help determine which solutions are the best fit. Leveraging the right equipment for each construction project brings improved risk management, efficiency, and cost savings.

Images Courtesy of DepositPhotos

Automation, AI, and drone technology can make construction safer and more efficient, creating new opportunities for women.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

Why are construction and maritime industries more popular with women nowadays?

To increase women's participation in construction, training, work-life balance support, and learning opportunities are essential.

Title:

Content: By Conor McCue

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. (CBS4) – Transportation & Construction GIRL Day returned for the fourth time in five years after the pandemic put it on pause in 2020. The annual event, which is free to attend for girls, is put on by the HOYA Foundation.

It’s geared toward educating young women about careers in the male-dominated construction and transportation industries.

(credit: CBS)

READ MORE: Ptarmigan Fire: Hundreds Remain Evacuated, New Evacuations Ordered After Wildfire Started Near Homes In Summit County

Through the trial and error of flying a drone for the first time, Lilly Gonzales opened her eyes to new possibilities at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds Tuesday.

“I almost got one stuck in a tree!” she exclaimed.

Other firsts for the 9 year old included welding and making concrete. Never had her hopes of becoming an electrician or engineer seemed so attainable.

“I just like taking things apart and rebuilding creative things, especially in Minecraft. It’s like my favorite game,” Gonzales said.

“This kind of shows me that I can do anything.”

Gonzales was one of hundreds of girls and young women who attended Transportation & Construction GIRL Day. The event is meant to show young women, ages 8 to 23, who’ve never considered a career in the transportation and construction industry a possibility.

READ MORE: Former Idaho Springs Police Officer, Nicholas Hanning, Faces Civil Lawsuit For Separate Controversial Arrest

“Last year, the construction and transportation industry was an essential industry, so we kept working, and we still need more employees,” said Keller Hayes, Director of Transportation & Construction GIRL.

(credit: CBS)

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women made up only 10.9 percent employees in the construction industry in 2020, an increase from 2016, when the figure was 8%.

Hayes says the opportunities are aplenty for women and the jobs can be lucrative. Part of her organization’s mission is to relay that message to a younger audience.

“There’s so many opportunities and they get paid well,” Hayes said. “In the construction industry, you get 99 cents on the dollar for comparable work to men, in comparison to 82 cents on the dollar.”

On Tuesday, employers hosted dozens of hands-on exhibits in the hopes of creating a lasting spark for attendees. The next challenge will be to nurture it so more new faces pursue a career down the road.

“Girls can do anything, even when it’s hard,” said Gonzales.

MORE NEWS: Denver Weather: Cooler Temperatures Settle In Quickly

“We want you in this industry, how can we help support you in getting you into this industry,” Hayes said.

Conor McCue

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

educational programs
vocational training
inclusive policies

What positive experiences are highlighted in the personal stories of successful women in construction and maritime industries, especially of female crane operators?

Government initiatives can promote gender equality in the construction industry.

Title:

Content: Women severely underrepresented in construction, but that’s changing

What you need to know:

  • In nearly every construction site I encounter, the workforce is overwhelmingly male.
  • The term ‘foreman’ is deeply ingrained in our collective lexicon, while phrases like ‘forewoman’ or the more inclusive ‘foreperson’ remain relatively uncommon.

Across the country, construction sites are a hive of activity, with the government’s ambitious affordable housing project leading the charge. Whenever I pass through these bustling sites, I can’t help but notice the workers clad in overalls, their faces dusted with cement powder as they push wheelbarrows brimming with mortar. Amidst this flurry of activity, one figure stands out – the foreman, barking instructions and overseeing the skilled artisans, or fundis, as they are commonly known.

Interestingly, in nearly every construction site I encounter, the workforce is overwhelmingly male. Rarely do I spot a woman among the fundis, save for the occasional food vendor. Historically, the construction industry has been a predominantly male bastion, a fact reflected in the terminology we use – the term ‘foreman’ is deeply ingrained in our collective lexicon, while phrases like ‘forewoman’ or the more inclusive ‘foreperson’ remain relatively uncommon.

While the underrepresentation of women in this field is a global issue, the challenges faced by women in this industry are particularly pronounced in Africa. This gender imbalance reflects a deeper, systemic issue within the construction sector. For too long, this industry has been perceived as a ‘man’s playground’, with women often relegated to peripheral roles or excluded entirely. The reasons for this disparity are multifaceted, ranging from societal norms and gender stereotypes, to a lack of equal opportunities and support systems for women seeking careers in this field.

Limited access to education and training opportunities, particularly in Stem fields, hinders women’s preparedness for technical roles. Furthermore, societal expectations and domestic responsibilities frequently clash with the demanding nature of construction work, making it difficult for women to balance their professional and personal lives. This gender imbalance not only perpetuates inequality but also deprives the industry of the valuable contributions and perspectives that women can bring to the table. However, times are changing, and more women are breaking into the industry, driven by their passion, determination, and desire to contribute to community development. Despite obstacles such as teenage pregnancies, early marriages, and societal pressures, many carved out their place in this male-dominated field.

Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance and an unwavering commitment to pursuing their dreams. From the high school dropout who found her calling on a construction site, to the young mother who juggled parenting responsibilities while mastering the art of bricklaying, these women have shattered stereotypes and proved that no challenge is too great when met with an indomitable spirit. Through their journeys, they have not only acquired valuable skills and experience but have also become beacons of inspiration for others.

This week, we celebrate these trailblazers, exploring their unique paths and the lessons they have learned along the way. Their stories offer a candid glimpse into the challenges and triumphs that have shaped their lives, from navigating male-dominated workplaces to balancing family responsibilities with demanding careers. As we strive to create a more inclusive and equitable society, it is imperative that we challenge the deeply ingrained biases and stereotypes that have traditionally kept women on the sidelines of the construction industry.

The government can play a pivotal role by implementing initiatives that support and empower women in this field, including investing in educational programmes, vocational training, mentorship opportunities, and inclusive policies that promote gender equality and non-discrimination. This way, we can empower a new generation of women to take their rightful place alongside their male counterparts, ushering in an era of diversity and excellence in this vital sector.

Empowering women in the construction industry can have far-reaching benefits, contributing to the overall advancement of gender equality and sustainable development in the country.

How has the level of discrimination for female employees in the construction industry changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

commit to gender equality in hiring practices

appoint women to traditionally male roles

tie gender diversity targets into contracts and deals

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

Empowering women in construction promotes gender equality and brings valuable contributions.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

How has the level of discrimination for female employees in the construction industry changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

commit to gender equality in hiring practices

Women hold only 10.9 percent of construction jobs, but can pursue lucrative careers with the right support.

The GIRL Day event aims to educate women about construction careers and increase their industry participation.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

Breaking down traditional gender barriers in construction requires a multi-faceted approach including education, training, mentorship, and technology.

Title:

Content: Towards women’s inclusion in tech ecosystem

Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Shuaib S. Agaka

Sir: Despite the fact that the country has made tremendous progress in building digital infrastructure and access, women are still disproportionately underrepresented in the tech industry and face major obstacles to learning digital skills and fully engaging in the digital economy.

Even though women make up half of the population, they still encounter unjustifiable obstacles when trying to obtain digital skills and chances in the computer sector. This discrepancy threatens Nigeria’s potential for general tech growth and innovation as well as gender inequity.

According to a 2023 World Economic Forum research, women make up just 28% of all ICT workers worldwide. In Nigeria, women make up only 22% of the workforce in this profession, making the gender disparity even more pronounced.

Additionally, according to the Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC), just 22% of graduates from Nigerian universities majoring in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are female.

For a country that is set to progress economically and technologically, these figures are extremely worrisome and troubling.

A number of deeply rooted reasons that contribute to the barriers that Nigerian women face in gaining digital literacy. It will continue to be difficult to achieve women’s digital inclusion unless these problems are resolved in their entirety.

The persistence of gender stereotypes is one of the main causes of women’s low levels of digital participation in Nigeria. Cultural standards frequently place a higher value on boys’ education than on girls’, supporting social views that restrict women’s access to higher education. These prejudices aggravate gaps in educational attainment, prevent women from obtaining formal education, and maintain the gender gap in digital literacy. They also make it more difficult for women to learn digital skills.

Nigeria also establishes conventional gender roles that place women’s home responsibilities above their aspirations for education and technology, setting social expectations and role definitions. Because of this, teenage girls might be deterred from investigating or pursuing professions in the IT sector, which would support the stereotype that these fields are better suited for men. These deeply embedded ideas restrict women’s potential and lead to their underrepresentation in the tech industry.

Mentorship plays a crucial role in providing guidance, advice, and opportunities for professional development, yet many women in Nigeria lack access to mentors who can offer support and guidance tailored to their unique experiences and challenges. Without mentors who understand their specific needs and circumstances, women struggle to navigate the complexities of the tech industry and overcome barriers to advancement.

Read Also: NLC, others lack powers to sack Abure led NWC, says Labour Party

Another significant factor hindering women’s participation in the tech industry in Nigeria is the lack of supportive workplace policies and practices that accommodate the unique needs and challenges faced by women. Many workplaces in the tech sector still lack adequate support systems for women, such as flexible work arrangements, family-friendly policies, and inclusive organizational cultures.

Beyond formal education settings, there is also a need for accessible and inclusive training programs and resources that cater to women who are already in the workforce or seeking to transition into tech-related roles. Skill development programs, coding boot-camps, and online learning platforms can provide valuable opportunities for women to acquire new skills and advance their careers in technology. However, these programs must be designed with the specific needs and preferences of women in mind, offering flexible scheduling, mentorship support, and a supportive learning environment.

Efforts to increase women’s participation in the tech industry must begin with addressing these ingrained barriers. The underrepresentation of women in the tech industry in requires comprehensive and concerted efforts from NITDA and other stakeholders to address. By working together to address these constraints, Nigeria can create a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem that benefits individuals and contributes to sustainable economic growth and development.

Achieving gender equality in the tech industry is not only a matter of social justice but also a strategic imperative for Nigeria’s future prosperity and competitiveness in the global economy. By unlocking the full potential of its female workforce and fostering an environment of inclusion and innovation, Nigeria can build a thriving tech industry that harnesses the talents and creativity of all its citizens, driving progress and prosperity for generations to come.

•Shuaib S. Agaka,

 Kano.

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What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

educational programs
mentorship opportunities
vocational training

Companies can attract female drivers by offering tailored training and equipment.

Title:

Content: Non-traditional employers competing for drivers

As traditional carriers compete to attract drivers to their fleets, there are plenty of non-traditional employers that are also looking for candidates with A/Z and D/Z licences to join their businesses.

“If you can’t find them, you got to make them. Training is the future to address driver shortage,” says Brandon Muir, supervisor at GFL Environmental.

Participating in a discussion at the Truck Training Schools Association of Ontario’s sixth annual conference recently, Muir noted that the waste management company attracts talent from the broader labor, not driver, pool.

Andrea Boddy, chief consultant and owner of Andrea Boddy Consulting representing Concrete Ontario, said the group has fixed a fatal flaw in its recruitment strategy. The association and its members have introduced frequently asked questions (FAQs) on their websites about what life as a ready-mix delivery professional looks like.

In the past, if one Googled questions about driving in the concrete industry, there were zero answers.

The FAQs include what kind of licence is required to drive a concrete truck, what safety protocols exist, whether overtime is paid, and how physical the job is. “If you don’t make those answers available, you are going to lose them,” she says of candidates.

John Faustino, fleet driver trainer for the City of Markham said the challenge is to hire people qualified to operate commercial vehicles, even if their primary function is not operating commercial vehicles.

Some jobs require a candidate with a D/Z licence along with other qualifications. For example, the water works department needs people with water works accreditation as well as a D/Z licence, and they can be hard to find.

The city hires people with the water works qualifications who do not have a D/Z licence. Faustino uses the city’s signing authority to upgrade them.

Markham’s parks department employs a lot of seasonal workers who only need a G licence to operate a pickup truck with a trailer. Many of those workers have ambitions to find full-time work with the city. They are asked to train at a private driving school, obtain their D/Z licence and reapply for a position.

Human resources must work with marketing to recruit employees. Companies need to figure out who they are trying to reach and what they are trying to say to them, Boddy noted. The story must be placed on the right social media platform, so it speaks to future employees and allows them to respond.

Trucking needs more women and companies can do more to attract them. There are 3,700 certified ready-mix trucks in Ontario, and only 40 women drivers. “That is bad news, but it also screams opportunity,” Boddy says.

Several themes emerged after Concrete Ontario surveyed the women on what could be done better.

They wanted women’s bathrooms, well-lit facilities to feel safe and personal protective equipment that was made to fit them.

Women wanted would-be employers to let them know they are welcome to apply for jobs. They indicated they did not see a single picture of women driving a ready-mix truck on some websites.

Muir said recruiters should think like a graduate from a school who is looking for a job and tailor their efforts. GFL provides training but it was not mentioned in job postings. The company now mentions it offers training. Some candidates may think they haven’t run lift axles or walking floors and walk away from the job before even applying for it, he said.

GFL Environmental offers a paid 10-week training program for non-experienced A/Z drivers and picks from an abundance of new graduates in the Greater Toronto Area that few fleets want to hire.

The company hauls loads during training so a vehicle is not tied up. It also pays for D/Z licence training through a private school for staff working as general laborers who show potential.

Leo Barros is the associate editor of Today’s Trucking. He has been a journalist for more than two decades, holds a CDL and has worked as a longhaul truck driver. Reach him at leo@newcom.ca

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

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WANTT offers pre-apprenticeship programs for women in construction, teaching tool usage, blueprint reading, and providing OSHA and CPR certifications.

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WKN: 885427 | ISIN: CA29250N1050 | Ticker-Symbol: EN3
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Enbridge: A Choice for Women Who 'WANTT' a Non-Traditional Career

In Oklahoma, fledgling non-profit helps women enter the construction industry through pre-apprenticeships

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / March 12, 2024 / While catching up over coffee, friends Laura Stauffer, a petroleum engineer, and Margot Heyne-Bell, a retired electrician, wondered what they could do to encourage women in Oklahoma to pursue construction trades.

Both had heard stories of women working minimum-wage jobs, struggling to support their families. They also knew the state has low rates of women working in construction. How could they show women all the opportunities a career in a non-traditional trade could provide?

As they sipped their beverages, Heyne-Bell reflected that she got her start 37 years ago through a pre-apprenticeship program, ANEW, based in Seattle.

The pair had their answer: they could launch a program just like the one Heyne-Bell attended decades earlier.

Within months of their 2021 meeting, Stauffer and Heyne-Bell founded Women Accessing Non-Traditional Trades (WANTT), a non-profit organization that delivers a pre-apprenticeship program to help prepare women for a career in the construction industry.

"We can open doors," Stauffer explains. "We can help them find the type of job they want-it could be an electrician, it could be a plumber, it could be an HVAC contractor, it could be a laborer. It depends what they have interest in."

What the organization does is create a path for women to upgrade their skills and education. They learn how to use hand and power tools and how to read a blueprint; they take classes on basic construction math; and earn certifications such as OSHA for occupational health and safety, and CPR first aid.

"We teach basic skills so that when they walk on a job site, they're comfortable being there," Stauffer adds.

To date, the eight-week program has welcomed two cohorts, and they're preparing for their third in 2024.

Although WANTT is in its infancy, Enbridge recognizes the organization is transforming the lives of women and their families, giving them opportunities they never thought possible.

WANTT's mission aligns with our workforce diversity goals, as well as our company's commitment to help empower individuals to reach their potential. To support WANTT's important work, we awarded the non-profit a $15,000 Fueling Futures grant in 2023. By helping women find stable careers in the trades and earn liveable wages, WANTT is enriching the whole community.

Beyond the classroom, WANTT hosts a job fair for students to meet potential employers and assist them with the next phase of their apprenticeship.

"We recruit, we train, and then we help them get a job," Stauffer notes.

Oklahoma is starting to see large numbers of workers aging out of construction, she explains.

"There's going to be jobs coming, and there's going to be a demand-why not fill them with women?"

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Enbridge on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:
Spokesperson: Enbridge
Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/enbridge
Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Enbridge

View the original press release on accesswire.com

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What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

educational programs
vocational training

The Step Up for Women Construction Program is a tuition-free training program preparing women for construction positions and apprenticeships in trades like carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and welding.

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Training Program Helps Women Take Advantage Of Construction Boom

Carpenter apprentice Brook Moyle always knew she wanted to make things.

“I love working with my hands,” Moyle said. “I like creating something. I like seeing my efforts build something.”

Moyle is a motivated person. She rode an electric bike from Fairmont to Elkins to make sure she made it to the first day of her apprenticeship. But Moyle said she didn’t think she had a chance at being a carpenter, or, at best, her dream was on the backburner while she worked other jobs in telemarketing and McDonalds. That is until she found West Virginia Women Work.

“They go through specific training courses, they go through almost all the trades, and then you get to kind of at least have the skills to pick something,” Moyle said. “If you do graduate from the program, you are kind of like put above the stock for anyone who did not, and tried to get into a union or a job or anything, because they have the connections to make that happen.”

Founded in 2000, West Virginia Women Work helps women explore, train, and secure employment in nontraditional occupations, especially the skilled trades.

“Especially in West Virginia, a four year degree isn't for everybody," said Carol Phillips, executive director of the program. "And just learning about, especially for women, the skilled trades, which maybe they didn't learn about in school or at home just due to gender roles,” she said. “Teaching people that you can come through this pre-apprenticeship program, you can join union apprenticeships, private apprenticeships, enter directly into skilled trades positions and make, you know, twice what you might make as a nursing assistant or even a school teacher. Just letting women know that there's opportunity.”

Earlier this month, Gov. Jim Justice announced $500 million for improvements to bridges across West Virginia. There are also several newly announced major construction projects, like the Nucor plant, that will need workers to make them a reality. For Phillips, the trained people from West Virginia Women Work are an obvious choice.

“We work with companies, unions, and groups on their equity planning,” she said. “If you're going to need 500 workers for something in the next six months, where are you going to get those from? We want those to come from West Virginia. If you're saying the workers aren't here, maybe you need to look at a more diverse group of workers.”

West Virginia Women Work prepares women for those roles through the Step Up for Women Construction Program, a tuition-free employment-based skilled trade training program designed to prepare adult women for entry-level positions in the construction industry and registered apprenticeships.

Nichole Stephenson is the Charleston program coordinator for Step Up for Women Construction training. Before going through the program herself, Stephenson was in healthcare for 10 years, but wasn’t happy. Despite being exposed to the trades her entire life, she never considered it an option.

“All of the men in my family are tradesmen, every single one,” she said. “I held the flashlight for every man in my family. My dad always said, ‘I work this hard, so you don't have to.’ What he didn't realize, and I don't think I realized at the time is, I loved it, I loved it.”

Choice is an important aspect of the program for Stephenson. Program students cycle through training in carpentry, electrical, plumbing and welding so that they can figure out what trade works best for them.

“This is a non-judgmental zone. So if you can’t hold a hammer, we teach you the proper way to do it. You don't walk onto a job site and, ‘She doesn't know what she's doing,’” Stephenson said. “What we do as coordinators is really work with students and watch them and see where their gifts are, and you know what they really tend to do well, and they find enjoyment in. It's not, ‘Well, I'm an electrician, because my dad was an electrician.’ It's choices, we show them so many things.”

Building confidence is baked into the program. Students are also coached on what Stephenson calls “soft skills,” things like interviewing and budgeting for delays in the weather-dependent construction industry.

Lakeisha Hines is the Morgantown program coordinator for Step Up for Women Construction. Like Stephenson, she also went through the program while seeking out a more promising professional future.

“We want to get the safety with OSHA 10 out of the way first, so we make sure that they are safety conscious, because that's the most important thing when you're working in construction,” Hines said. “Then we kind of sprinkle in some of the soft skills along with the handling portions of the program.”

Students also get a chance to visit project sites and speak to program graduates. Hines said it helps students see the future they’re working towards past the 12 weeks of training.

“I think it's empowering to them to see where somebody started, and a lot of those people have the same stories,” Hines said. “It starts with them actually applying and knowing that they can do the work, too. I think our program starts to get their self-confidence up, lets them know that they can do it. And these women tell their daughters that they can do it. And it's just like a trickle down effect.”

The next program in Charleston and Morgantown starts Feb. 27 and is currently accepting applications.

North Central/Morgantown Reporter, cschulz@wvpublic.org, 304-284-1497, @SchulzReports

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What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

educational programs
vocational training

West Virginia Women Work and the Step Up for Women Construction Program help women explore nontraditional occupations and build confidence and soft skills.

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

educational programs
vocational training

The SLCC Power Lineman program teaches lineworker skills, first aid, and CDL license training, and supports women entering male-dominated fields.

Title:

Content: LUS Fiber hires first woman lineworker, a graduate of the SLCC Power Lineman program

Ashley White
Lafayette Daily Advertiser
View Comments

When Lafayette residents look up at the bucket of an LUS Fiber truck they could see Jewel Everett — the company's first woman lineworker.

Everett has been shadowing other workers, learning everything to do with the fiber optic business.

She enrolled in South Louisiana Community College's Power Lineman program and, after getting outfitted with clothing and equipment small enough to fit her, jumped right into working at LUS Fiber.

"I really wanted to go to school for that specific program because it gave me opportunities to either go for electric (line work) or anything that requires bucket trucks or climbing poles," Everett said.

Everett, who enjoys being in the bucket making repairs, said the most challenging part has been lifting and balancing the larger equipment, like the ladders that are more than 20 feet long. But when she conquers those challenges - like the time she had to hang a cross tie during school - it makes the job worth it.

"I’ve always liked doing hard work, and doing hard work comes with making good money and also helping people in a big way," Everett said.

At LUS Fiber, she'll install fiber lines on overhead poles, splice fiber cable, climb poles or use ladders to access fiber infrastructure, and install advanced network gear at locations across Lafayette and Acadiana.

The 25-week program at SLCC includes training students to receive their CDL license, learning first aid, receiving training specific to being a lineworker, learning to work buckets and how to climb utility poles.

"That was one of the good things about having her go to the SLCC program. It’s allowing them to learn the basics and then quickly jump to their next role," said Ryan Meche, director of LUS Fiber. "Once we found clothes that fit her and got her rigged out, she was literally the next day climbing the poles getting work done."

The program was created after Charlotte LeLeux, director of transportation, distribution, and logistics, was approached by utility companies about the dwindling workforce and a need for lineworkers.

The program's first cohort graduated in January 2020. All 16 people had jobs lined up before their graduation day.

Everett was the program's first woman graduate, an honor for SLCC, LeLeux said. LeLeux, who received her CDL license more than 20 years ago, knew some of the obstacles women can face in fields of work traditionally dominated by men.

"When Jewel came in, we had that conversation. I said, 'When you face obstacles and somebody’s pushing back, you don’t think twice. You push back because you’re just as capable,' LeLeux said. "She’s definitely been a pioneer and paving the way for the young ladies that come behind her."

But Everett didn't look at it as a trailblazing opportunity but a way to do something she's interested in.

“You just have to do it, honestly," she said. "And you can’t be scared to do it."

Meche said he's glad Everett chose to work at LUS Fiber after graduation."We're really excited to have someone like Jewel join the workforce with a fresh perspective and highly motivated," Meche said. "We think this is going to be a huge asset and be pivotal to our success and some of these expansion efforts that we're going through."

Contact Ashley White at adwhite@theadvertiser.com or on Twitter at @AshleyyDi.

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What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

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What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

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Intechcom created a hyperrealistic VR simulator for training crane operators.

Title:

Content: Sections
Technique
“Intechcom ” has created a hyperrealistic VR simulator for crane operators
Intechcom has created virtual simulators for crane operators.
The development helps to increase the professional level of crane operators and make the learning process more intensive and convenient.
The simulator consists of a real driver ’ s chair with crane joysticks and buttons and VR glasses that give the user maximum visibility both horizontally and vertically.
There is a place for the teacher (a separate computer is not required), you can configure the complexity of tasks, record the progress of their implementation, etc.
The development is portable: it easily fits in the trunk of a conventional car, is assembled and disassembled in 15 minutes.
Currently, two types of simulators are ready: the portal (GANZ crane is taken as a basis) and the bridge, designed for work in steelmaking plants.
IT personnel for industry will be trained in a special educational center
IT industry support
The fundamental difference between the VR-simulator “Intekom ” from others, where the student sees everything on the screen, is hyperrealism.
Igor Ovyan, CEO of Intechcom, said: “The standard training of the crane operator lasts 2-3 months: the theoretical part can be laid in 2 weeks, the rest of the time takes production practice.
But for virtuoso ownership — to really “feel ” a machine — it takes years of experience.
Therefore, the higher the realism of the simulator and the more various professional subtleties laid down in the program, the better prepared the beginner.
Our specialists collected data in the port of Murmansk and at the NLMK steel plant.
We climbed into the cockpit of the crane, recorded the sounds of the port and workshop, consulted with experienced crane operators, who revealed many nuances, for example, that a quiet click should sound when a certain, rather rare action.
Extremely realistic SCs have been modeled.
You can memorize the rules as much as you want, but in the real situation you get confused.
The VR simulator provides full immersion: the cabin swings from the wind or overload, the operator is blinded by the sun or, on the contrary, visibility deteriorates due to gas pollution in the workshop, etc.
We have been engaged in the modernization of industrial equipment for many years and implemented all the novelties in the simulator, even a touch panel for monitoring, which warns about exceeding the load or if the cable is wound.
After training in a virtual environment, it is much easier to transfer to the real chair of the crane operator - there is no difference, while the risk that a beginner will not cope with expensive equipment is much lower.
VR-simulator is ideal for career guidance.
Impressions are strong: the cabin is transparent, you are at a huge height and you are subject to a powerful car.
A reason to fall in love with the profession. ”

The VR simulator aids career guidance, reduces equipment damage risk, and provides a realistic crane operating experience.

MDOT created an on-the-job training program to recruit women and minorities to construction crews.

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Content: News

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Detroit woman holds high rank in construction industry, encourages other women to join

Posted at 8:52 AM, Sep 01, 2022
and last updated 2022-09-01 08:52:20-04

(WXYZ) — A Detroit woman who started out filling potholes in the city is now in a position of power becoming one of the only women in the country to be crowned Superintendent of Street Maintenance.

Patricia Henderson is a woman that is about her business.

She works, sometimes around the clock, helping to make sure Detroit streets are smooth. And now, she's encouraging other women in the area to see a future in construction.

“My job initially, was to fill potholes,” Henderson said.

Henderson started working for the city in 1998. She says she was often the only woman on the side of the road patching and pounding so gaining respect wasn’t easy.

“The men thought that I couldn’t do the job so they would purposely not do something and leave it for me to do," Henderson said.

But instead of caving, she took control.

“I’ll go right on ahead and do it. I'll pick up the jackhammer, the shovel, whatever was available. I went on and done the job without their help,” she said.

She quickly began to rise in the ranks, but she says the feeling is bittersweet knowing more women are not following the path she's cleared.

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor and Statistics, only 13% of payroll employees in construction are women. This number has remained stagnant since the 90s.

As of 2019, Detroit ranked 44th in the country when it came to female construction workers.

“You identify a problem and you come up with solutions to eliminate that problem," MDOT spokesperson Aaron Jenkins said.

Jenkins says MDOT has created an on-the-job training program aimed at recruiting women and other minorities to join construction crews.

Since the program began, enrollment has more than doubled. The program started off with 56 women in 2017 and has grown to 126 as of 2021.

"The recruiting is working,” Jenkins said.

Henderson says she has hired more women under her leadership including in her supervising staff and she wants to encourage others to take the chance.

"I would tell women, go for it. Who better than us to do it? We are just as strong. We are just as smart. We are just as dominant as the male. We can do it, I’m a witness. I've done it.”

If you'd like to learn more about MDOT's job training program, click here.

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The Women into Home Building Employment Programme and Women into Construction support and train female construction workers.

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Content: InYourArea Community

Housebuilding industry encourages women into site management

'We’re determined to increase the representation of women in leadership positions within homebuilding'

By Kerigh Palmer

OPENING DOORS: The construction industry is encouraging more women into site management

Women interested in a career in site management visited a Persimmon Homes’ development in Birmingham recently to experience a morning on site and gain valuable advice on starting a leadership position in the homebuilding industry.

The event in Erdington, hosted on Monday, February 6, forms part of the Women into Home Building Employment Programme, a  joint initiative between Women into Construction, the Home Builders Federation (HBF) and nine major home builders. The uniquely funded programme looks to help address the gender imbalance in the construction workforce, which currently sees just 16 per cent female representation.

Persimmon Homes is one of nine home builders registered as a partner of the scheme, working together to offer a funded training and support with childcare to enable more applicants to pursue a career in site management.

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Paul Curry, head of training at Persimmon Homes, said: "We were delighted to welcome prospective participants to Holly Fields as part of the Women into Home Building employment programme. All industries thrive when they are diverse, so we’re particularly proud to be a part of this initiative which provides support to underrepresented groups in the sector.

“Particularly timely during National Apprenticeship Week, we hope that the candidates got a lot out of the morning and wish them all the best with their applications.”

Jacqui Wordsworth, business development director at Women into Construction, said: “With women representing just 4 per cent of site managers, we want to inspire and encourage more women to take up a career in home building. We are grateful to Persimmon Homes and our other programme partners for all of their support with this exciting programme.”

Jenny Herdman, director for HBF’s Home Building Skills Partnership, said: “We’re determined to increase the representation of women in leadership positions within homebuilding, so are thrilled to see the programme come to life and provide a platform for women to explore a new career. This week’s visits at the Persimmon development and other partner sites will provide participants with valuable first-hand experience that’ll set them up for the rest of the programme.”

For more information on or to apply for future courses visit the Women into Construction website or to submit an applications for this first Cohort - applications close on Monday, February 13, at 5pm, visit the Women into Construction website.

Submitted by Persimmon Homes.

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GFL Environmental offers a paid 10-week training program for non-experienced drivers to meet job requirements.

Concrete Ontario introduced FAQs and surveyed women to improve recruitment and retention.

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

The Home Builders Federation and Persimmon Homes support initiatives to increase female representation, including funded training and childcare.

How has the level of discrimination for female employees in the construction industry changed over recent decades?

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create training and apprenticeship programs

Noura, who learned to drive a loader, was bullied by society but supported by a training center in Assiut.

Title:

Content: General Supervision
Elham Aboul Fath
Editor-in-Chief
Thank you for your patience.
General Supervision
Elham Aboul Fath
Editor-in-Chief
Thank you for your patience.
Noura learned to drive a loader and braved bullying to help her husband treat her two sons.
A video.
Noura put her two children with autism in front of her eyes and did not look at the difficulty and hardship of driving heavy equipment and decided to learn to drive "Lauder" to be the first woman in Upper Egypt to obtain a driver's license to improve her condition and help her husband to pay for the treatment of their two sons without considering the bullying she faced from the surrounding society in light of the customs and traditions that restrict women in Upper Egypt
Noura Jamal Taha Mohamed, 36, daughter of Assiut, said that I am married and have three children, including two with autism, and since their birth, my husband and I visit doctors ’ clinics to treat them, and they are all in schools. I learned to drive a loader and challenge all the ridicule and bullying so that I can improve my income to help my husband to pay for my children ’ s treatment.
Noura added: I learned from my friend about the announcement of the initiative of a decent life at the training center about training young people on crafts and applied to learn the craft of construction, but when I went to the training center I found the teaching of driving heavy equipment, so I decided to learn to drive the loader equipment and there were many challenges ahead of me.
She continued: When I asked the management of the training center to apply to learn to drive the loader, there was a great surprise from them, especially since it is an effort on any girl, but after presenting my request to the management of the training center, I found a welcome and support for me and joined the training on driving the loader and learn about all the basic tasks that follow during driving and check the stomach before operating it for the availability of safety means during driving.
She continued: I found great support from my husband, unlike the community that faced my desire to bully me, but this was an incentive for me to achieve my ambition, especially as I was putting my children in front of my eyes to find a source of income to help me with my husband in completing their treatment journey and not need anyone.
After receiving my driver ’ s license, I will seek to find a real job opportunity within a company that values women ’ s work, especially as I seek to develop my life for the better.
Noureddine Ahmed Mostafa Darwish, a heavy equipment trainer at the Assiut training center, said that the center provides training services for a number of equipment and trades, including training equipment on loaders, excavators and other heavy equipment, but for the first time in Assiut, a woman is applying to learn to drive a loader.
Noureddine added that “Noura ” was quick to respond during the training period due to her love for this profession and this helped greatly in passing the tests and showed proficiency in the speed of receiving information and going through the experience without fear or hesitation and I did not face any difficulties in training her only at the beginning because she is a woman undergoing a huge experience as a heavy stomach driving for the first time but she excelled after.
When Noura applied for a heavy equipment driving course, we asked her to think and slow down on this matter, especially as she was the first woman to apply for such courses, but we found her determination to take this course, so we presented the matter to the head of the agency, who welcomed the order and asked us to support her.
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The training center and her husband supported Noura's decision to learn heavy equipment.

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

Women can overcome physical challenges to succeed as crane operators with targeted training and development.

Title:

Content: Helping young people achieve their dreams across the world! The Penghu Branch of the Ministry of Labor Gets a Competitive Advantage for Youth
Reporter Huang Shou-shuang / reporting from Kaohsiung
The Department of Labor Development of the Ministry of Labor has actively promoted investment in youth employment programs, breaking through the gender framework for young people to achieve a competitive advantage, showing that they do not let their eyebrows go, and bravely breaking into the offshore wind power work field, because they keep improving, so that their lives can be turned around, and they can increase their value and pay.
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The second phase of the Youth Employment Program is to help unemployed or jobless youth aged 15 to 29 with professional skills and employability in key industries. The training fee for participating in the New Pioneer Program is up to 100,000 yuan per person. At the same time, in order to relieve the financial pressure of trainees during training, there is a monthly learning incentive subsidy of 8,000 yuan during training, which can be subsidized for up to 12 months.
Guo Genghua said that a 29-year-old female student who participated in the industry's new frontier plan has broken through the gender framework, showing that she does not let the eyebrows go, bravely breaking into the offshore wind power work field, because she keeps improving, let her life turn over, and give herself a raise.
Guo Genghua also said that the female student university major in business management, because of the personality of extrovert and like sports, after graduation, had done sports powder editor, sports substitute teacher, construction supervision and other work, but long-term, life and income instability, let her feel at a loss for the future, about to enter the age of 30, she hopes to find a skilled job and stable employment. With the encouragement and introduction of his family, he enrolled in the Offshore Wind and Marine Engineering Career Counseling Program of the Penghu Branch of the Penghu District of Kaohsiung City, and decided to give himself an opportunity to study in a cross-disciplinary field.
The female trainee pointed out that because she graduated from a non-related department and never touched the field of electromechanical or marine engineering, and in the training process, she often has to carry more than 10 kilograms of equipment, simulating land and sea hanging operations or first aid subjects, which is a challenge in terms of physical strength and endurance, so relatively few women are involved in related work.
At the beginning of the training, she was full of anxiety and fear, but the equipment of the training unit not only passed the international safety standards, but also every instructor and teaching assistant has a professional license. During the training period, she successfully obtained five basic safety training certificates from the Global Wind Organisation. Before the training, she attracted the favor of manufacturers through job matching, and successfully entered the Danish company Global Wind Service Taiwan Branch to become a wind technician.
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What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

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Female crane operators can break into male-dominated fields like offshore wind power through training programs with financial incentives.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

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create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

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Crane operator training programs provide professional skills, employability, and safety certificates, like those from the Global Wind Organisation.

Global Wind Service offers job opportunities for certified female crane operators.

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appoint women to traditionally male roles

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Why are construction and maritime industries more popular with women nowadays?

Women can succeed as crane operators with determination and support, despite facing bullying and societal opposition.

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What challenges do women in the construction and maritime  industries face?

Training centers provide support for women to learn technical skills like heavy equipment operation.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

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Mobile Crane Operation can be offered in training programs alongside other vocational courses.

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Content: Champion Newspapers Limited
For a better society

NCDMB, Waltersmith Refinery, partner on graduate retraining

15

General Manager, Upstream and Monitoring, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Jeff Tuatuagha with officials of Waltersmith Refining and Petrochemical Company Limited at the kick-off ceremony of Nigerian Content NC-Remedial Training Programme for young university graduates held on Friday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

A 12-month Nigerian Content NC-Remedial Training Programme for young university graduates kicked off on Friday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with 29 trainees expected to focus on general skill sets and specialised skill sets that would fit them for oil and gas industry operations.

Organised by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), in conjunction with Waltersmith Refining and Petrochemical Company Limited, the programme would introduce the participants to Entrepreneurship, Health Safety at Work, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and Engineering Materials, under the general skill sets. These are compulsory for all the trainees.

Specialised skill sets, where participants are required to concentrate on one or the other of the many competencies available, include Project Management, Scrum Master, Quality Management System ISO 9001:2015, Welding and Fabrication, Mobile Crane Operation, Plumbing and Pipe-fitting, and Mechanical Engineering Designs.

At the Kick-off Ceremony at Dexterous Applied Training Institute, Port Harcourt, the Director, Monitoring and Evaluation of NCDMB, Mr. Akintunde Adelana, said the programme is for human capital development which is central to the mandate of the Board, and also for the good of the trainees who need such vital skills to secure employment in the oil and gas industry and to become employers themselves.

“This is the beginning of a new phase in your lives,” he explained to the trainees, noting that “The industry is in need of manpower, but manpower that is skilled.” He urged them to make the best of the opportunity provided, while emphasising that the Board is “going to be tracking [their] progress” and also monitoring the quality of training imparted. He assured them that they would receive “globally recognised certification” at the end of the programme.

The Director who was represented by Mr. Jeff Tuatuagha, General Manager, Upstream and Monitoring of the NCDMB, commended Waltersmith Refinery for keying meaningfully into the capacity building programme of the NCDMB and for the sound organisation in putting together the current training programme. He was similarly impressed with Dexterous Applied Training Institute for successfully conducting the selection process based on personal data extracted from NCDMB’s Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Joint Qualification System (NOGIC JQS).

The Group Head, External Affairs and Government Relations of Waltersmith, Mrs. Eriye Onagoruwa, echoed the point made by the NCDMB Director on opportunities in the oil and gas industry, noting that “There is a mad hunt for manpower in different sectors of the economy. But you must have the required skills.”

She said: “Discipline and consistency are vital” to achieve their goals, and that they must eschew entitlement mentality which inclines individuals to believe that they could secure employment simply because of where they come from. “No handovers anymore,” she reiterated, adding that there are no short cuts either.

On the training scope for the programme, the Assistant Training Officer at Dexterous, Mr. Dumam Abila, said there are two broad categories, namely, professional and vocational. Under the professional category are Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Project Management, Safety Courses, Software Operations, Quality Management Systems, and Engineering.

Vocational courses include Welding and Fabrication, Building and Construction, Lifting and Rigging, Dry Plant Equipment, Maintenance and Operation, and Heavy Duty Equipment Operation.

The Institute’s Chief Training Officer, Engr. O.C. Scott, told the participants that the programme is designed to bridge “the gap between academic training and industry practice,” and encouraged them to approach trainers to discuss whatever challenges they experience at any point. In response to a question from a trainee, he said hands-on training for some of the courses would be held at operational sites in Port Harcourt and Warri, Delta State, and that accommodation would be provided when the programme takes them to Delta State.

Dexterous is an internationally accredited training provider and a leading member of the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN). It is also a City and Guilds Qualification Certification Centre.

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These programs provide globally recognized certification, bridging academic training and industry practice.

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

West Virginia Women Work offers tuition-free training in nontraditional occupations like construction and crane operation.

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The Step Up for Women Construction Program prepares women for construction positions and apprenticeships in trades like carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and welding.

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

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Forklift certification, requiring OSHA approval and training, is important for women in construction and maritime industries.

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Content: How to Become a Forklift Driver

It doesn’t take long – and it’s not expensive – to get forklift certification. In just a few hours – that’s right, hours! – you can complete a forklift certification course. Once you’ve done that, the door is open to a wide variety of jobs.

You can expect to earn from $16 to $18.50 hourly to start, with the opportunity to earn more depending on what type of forklift certification course you’ve completed. All courses must be OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) approved. OSHA forklift certification is available for all types of forklifts.

Understanding the Role of a Forklift Operator

A forklift is also called a powered industrial truck. The forklifts may be electric or run by an internal combustion engine.

The forklift operator moves items from one location to another. Items may be moved within an industrial area, such as a warehouse, or to/from a warehouse to a truck or airplane.

Forklifts are also a key tool for maintaining heavy equipment, where they’re needed as “jacks” or to move parts. These forklifts, often used on construction, mining or recycling operations, are built for outdoor terrain.

The Duties and Responsibilities of a Forklift Operator

Forklift drivers are vital in numerous industries where heavy loads must be moved efficiently and safely. Their responsibilities include not only driving and maneuvering the vehicle but also ensuring that the load is secure, the machine is in good condition, and that all safety protocols are strictly adhered to. A comprehensive list of duties and responsibilities of a forklift operator may include the following:

  • Operating the forklift involves driving the forklift to transport heavy items from one location to another. Operating the forklift efficiently without causing any damage or accidents requires skill and precision.
  • Safety checks and measures: Before operating the forklift, the driver is responsible for carrying out safety checks to ensure that the vehicle is in good condition and safe to use. This includes checking the brakes, steering, controls, warning devices, mast, tires and other parts of the forklift.
  • Load handling: The operator must ensure that each load is stable, secure, and positioned correctly on the forklift. Overloading or incorrect positioning can cause the vehicle to become unbalanced, posing a significant safety risk.
  • Maintenance: Basic maintenance tasks, such as oil checks, refueling, or recharging the forklift, are typically the operator’s responsibility. Any issues that the driver cannot fix must be reported to a maintenance team or supervisor.
  • Identifying and reporting hazards: The operator must be aware of their surroundings at all times and be able to identify any potential hazards, such as spills or obstructions in the driving path. Any hazardous conditions should be reported immediately to management.
  • Following instructions: Forklift operators must follow all given instructions accurately, which may involve stacking goods in specific locations, loading or unloading trucks, or transporting materials to designated areas.
  • Record keeping: Accurate records of all operations must be kept by the forklift driver. This can include logs of all goods moved, details of any incidents or accidents, and maintenance checks.
  • Adherence to protocols: The operator should strictly adhere to all safety protocols and regulations set by the company and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This includes wearing appropriate safety gear and following guidelines for safe forklift operation.
  • Training and skills development: Ongoing training is often a requirement for forklift drivers to ensure that their skills are up-to-date and they are aware of any changes in safety protocols.

Forklift drivers play a key role in maintaining the smooth operation of warehouses, construction sites, and other industrial settings. By fulfilling their duties and responsibilities, they contribute to the overall safety and efficiency of their workplaces.

Industries Where Forklift Operators are In Demand

Forklift drivers are required in various industries where heavy goods need to be moved or stored. Their role is crucial for efficient operations in these sectors. Below are some industries that frequently utilize forklift operators:

  • Warehousing and Distribution: Warehouses are the primary sector that employs forklift operators. They are needed for receiving, storing, and distributing goods. This can include everything from electronics to food items, and these operators are responsible for the efficient and safe movement of these items within the warehouse.
  • Construction: In construction, forklifts are used for lifting and moving heavy materials like steel bars, concrete blocks, and large equipment. Forklift operators are, therefore, essential for moving materials on-site and assisting with various construction tasks.
  • Recycling: In recycling facilities, forklift operators are needed to move large bales of recycled materials, load materials onto processing equipment, and unload materials from trucks.
  • Mining: In both open pit and underground mines, forklift operators help move mined ores and other materials. They are essential for transporting materials to processing sites and loading trucks with mined goods.
  • Airport Operations: Forklift drivers are needed for handling baggage and cargo in airports. They load and unload cargo from aircraft and move baggage to and from the aircraft.
  • Disaster Relief: In disaster-stricken areas, forklift operators can be crucial for moving and distributing relief materials like food, water, medical supplies, and shelter. They may also assist in the removal of debris.
  • Ports and Docks: Ports and docks often utilize forklift operators to load and unload ships, move containers, and arrange goods for storage or further transportation.
  • Manufacturing: In manufacturing plants, forklift operators can be involved in moving raw materials, stacking goods, and transporting finished products within the plant.
  • Retail: Large retail stores, especially those selling large items like furniture or appliances, use forklift operators to move, store, and load goods onto customers’ vehicles.
  • Agriculture: In the agricultural sector, forklift drivers might be used to move and stack produce pallets, load goods onto trucks for transport, and unload supplies.

These are just some examples. Any industry that requires the movement of heavy goods or materials will likely require using forklifts and their operators.

Prerequisites to Becoming a Forklift Driver

Age and Physical Requirements

To get a forklift certification card, you must be at least 18 and hold a high school diploma.

You should have good hand-eye coordination, visual ability, and communication skills.

Educational Requirements

OSHA requires a three-part course to obtain a forklift license. There’s formal learning, which can be completed with in-person or online courses. Next, you need hands-on experience with the practical application of the forklift operation. To complete the requirements, your skills need to be tested by an OSHA-certified evaluator.

The Importance of Forklift Safety Training

Safety is a focus of the OSHA-certified training.

An operator is lifting items above the ground, sometimes several tiers high as in a warehouse setting. No matter where a forklift is being operated and what type of forklift it is, safe operations are the priority.

How to Become a Forklift Driver: A Step-by-Step Process

Choosing the Right Forklift Certification Training Program

There are many types of forklifts. Some are for light loads; some are for heavy loads. Some are designed for indoor use; some are designed to be used outside. On some, the operator is seated; on others, the operator remains standing.

Here is a sampling of types: high lift, straddle (to stack containers), and cantilever lifts (for long freight such as pipes). The most commonly used forklift is one designed for warehouse application, moving palletized materials.

Choose the program that matches your desired job.

Finding an OSHA-Approved Training Program

It’s easy. Just go to the OSHA website and search for forklift certification courses.

Undertaking a Forklift Training Course

Your first step is to complete an online or in-person training course.

Acquiring Hands-on Experience

For the next part of the certification process, you must complete hands-on experience. Often companies looking to hire will offer this training. You can also check forklift training companies such as A-1 Forklift, Florida Training Academy, Raymond Corporation, Forklift Academy and United Rentals (specializes in rough terrain forklift certification).

Applying for the Forklift Operator Certification

Once you’ve completed the first two steps of forklift training, your skills need to be evaluated by a person who is a certified OSHA forklift certification evaluator.

The total costs for forklift operator certification are typically from $80 to $300, depending on the type of equipment you plan to use.

Steps for Becoming a Forklift OperatorDescription
Choosing the Right Forklift Certification Training ProgramDepending on your desired job, you'll need to select a program that matches the type of forklift you'll be using. This can range from highlift, straddle lifts, cantilever lifts, to the most commonly used warehouse forklifts.
Finding an OSHA Approved Training ProgramYou can easily find OSHA approved forklift certification courses on the OSHA website.
Undertaking a Forklift Training CourseThe first step towards certification is completing an online or in-person training course. This will provide you with the theoretical knowledge necessary to operate a forklift.
Acquiring Hands-on ExperienceThe next part of the certification process is gaining hands-on experience. You can get this training from companies looking to hire, or from specific forklift training companies such as A-1 Forklift, Florida Training Academy, Raymond Corporation, Forklift Academy, and United Rentals.
Applying for the Forklift Operator CertificationAfter you've completed your training, your skills need to be evaluated by a certified OSHA forklift certification evaluator. The total costs for forklift operator certification typically range from $80 to $300, depending on the type of equipment you plan to use.

What to Expect from Forklift Certification Exams

Written Test

You can take the written test on line or in person. You’ll need a 75% or higher score to pass. Online forklift certification courses must be followed by hands-on experience and evaluation.

Practical Test

For the practical tests, your skills will be evaluated. According to OSHA guidelines, “the evaluation must be conducted by persons who have the knowledge, training and experience to evaluation the operator’s competence.”

Career Progression Opportunities for Certified Forklift Operators

Once you’ve gotten one type of forklift certification, you’ll need to recertify every three years. For that, you’ll only need to do the online forklift certification portion.

Or you may want to change the type of forklift you operate.

Advanced Certifications and Specializations in Forklift Driving

Specializations include MEWP (mobile elevating work platform) used with aerial booms and scissors lift machines. In addition to warehouse applications, forklift operators are also in demand by trucking companies (for dock work) and utility (electrical and wind power) companies.

Potential Career Paths for Experienced Forklift Operators

One of the biggest needs in the industry is for OSHA-certified evaluators. Companies also need forklift safety inspectors, who perform inspections and preventative maintenance. You can also operate a forklift for a logistics business, construction company, or equipment provider.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Certified Forklift Operator

How long does it take to get a forklift license?

The process can be completed in less than 4 hours.

How much does a certified forklift driver make?

The driver can make $16 to $18.50 hourly, with a range of $26,000 to $41,000 annually. The numbers increase depending on the type of forklift being used.

Is forklift operator training expensive?

No. The cost of training ranges from $80 to $300 for a complete, three-part course.

How often does a forklift certification card need to be renewed?

The forklift certification card needs to be renewed every three years.

What are the job prospects for a certified forklift operator?

Job prospects are good. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, forklift operator jobs are expected to grow by 7% annually through 2031. You may also look into how to become a truck driver or how to become a pilot car driver to increase job prospects even more, since these positions are also in demand in similar industries.

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Lisa Price is a freelance writer living in Barnesville, Pennsylvania. She has a B.A. in English with a minor in journalism from Shippensburg State College (Pennsylvania). She has worked as a trucking company dock supervisor, newspaper circulation district manager, radio station commercial writer, assistant manager of a veterinary pharmaceutical warehouse and newspaper reporter.

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

Companies can provide targeted training for women to succeed in male-dominated fields.

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

Women comprise only 1.8% of the mining workforce, despite demand for females with skills in areas like public safety, occupational health, and technical operations.

Title:

Content: Tuesday 21-12-2021
10,000 Excess Miners
A specialized study revealed that there is a surplus of labor in the field of mining up to (10.602) workers looking for work in this sector, indicating that the number of establishments operating in this sector is (6.520) establishments with a total labor volume of 31.412 workers.
Add Announcement
The total demand for the years 2020 – 2022 amounted to 10,436 jobs in this sector, while the total supply for the years 2016 – 2018 amounted to 21.038, indicating a decline in the number of jobs in this sector.
The number of establishments in the metal industry sector reached 6520, employing about 31,412 workers, 65% in the central region, 26.5% in the northern region and 8.5% in the southern region, according to the study prepared by the National Center for Human Resources Development in cooperation with the Ministry of Labor.
The study showed that the majority of the enterprises operating in the mining sector are individual enterprises by 60% according to their legal entity, and the workers in the sector are 98.2% male compared to 1.8% female, and 76% of the workers in this sector are Jordanians, compared to 24% non-Jordanians.
It showed that the skills most in demand are the skill of knowing and applying public safety and occupational health procedures, the skill of using measurement tools, the skill of reading executive drawings, in addition to the skill of operating computerized and non-computerized machines and machines, the skill of operating and maintaining the diamond rope machine, and the skill of gas welding.
The results of the analysis of the data collected indicate that the majority of enterprises operating in the sector do not wish to employ females, mainly because the nature of work in this sector is not suitable for women, and the future demand for females is (315) job opportunities out of the total required job opportunities, which represents 3%, and is concentrated in the Central Region.
On the other hand, the number of workers with disabilities reached 197 workers working in a large concentration in the Central Region, and the demand amounted to 241 jobs in various professions, the most important of which are blacksmith automatic forming press, marble saw operator, welder, metal paint and stone debate.
The results of the study revealed that 18% of enterprises, most of which are individual and face difficulties in recruitment, resulting from the shortage of labor who have the required skills, in addition to the shortage of labor who have positive values and attitudes towards work.
When asked about the difficulties and challenges facing the metal industry, 28% answered that high taxes affect the performance of the sector, while 20% referred to laws and regulations governing labor.
The number of educational and training programs in this sector amounted to about 24 programs, and the number of graduates about 21038 graduates during the years 2016-2018, the large percentage of them graduated from civil engineers (29.3%), followed by mechanical engineer / year program (13%), while the graduates of gender training providers distributed 71% for males and 29% for females.
When looking at the supply side, it reached 21,038 graduates, of whom 11,960 Bachelor ’ s degree holders and the rest below. In contrast, the demand for bachelor ’ s degree holders was 315 out of 10,436, which means that there is a surplus in the supply of bachelor ’ s degree holders, especially in engineering disciplines.
The study said: “With regard to the technical skill that employers stressed the need for workers in the workplace and in the intended appointment, it is mostly not included in the educational and training programs provided. ” (Al-Ghad)

Companies can address the shortage of women in construction and maritime by offering paid training and tailoring job postings to attract female candidates.

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

commit to gender equality in hiring practices

create training and apprenticeship programs

Women can obtain crane operation certifications, such as Fixed Crane and Mobile crane operation, through training and technical skills exams.

Title:

Content: In order to facilitate migrant workers to obtain the ROC's technical certificate and improve their ability to work, the Ministry of Labor in the third round of this year's "National Technician Skills Examination" has added 32 foreign language auxiliary subjects for migrant workers for reasons of residence.
According to Wu Hsing-pin, director of the Technical Inspection Center of the Labor Development Bureau of the Ministry of Labor, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and related surveys, the work skills required by migrant workers are found to be in line with some of the existing qualifications of the Technician Examination.
The Technical Inspection Center also mentioned that the third step of the addition of a single level of "bamboo weaving", accepting applications for certification of the job categories include frozen air conditioning decoration, car repair, baked goods, beauty, stacker operation, caring for personnel and other 88 categories.
In addition, we will also accept the "Exemption from the Examination" of the Class A of the National Skills Examination for each stage of this year's National Skills Examination to register for the academic test.
The technical inspection center reminds that the third national technician skills test, August 29 to September 7 this year to accept the registration, the public can now be near to the supermarket channel to buy the simple chapter, the academic test is scheduled to be held on November 6, please grasp the time to register.
For migrant workers (for migrant workers and foreign workers):
17800 Care Worker
Migrant Worker (for reasons of residence of migrant worker, migrant worker or applicant):
06102 Fixed Crane Operation - Telescopic, 06104 Fixed Crane Operation - Overhead (On-board), 06105 Fixed Crane Operation - Overhead (Ground), 15100 Stacker Operation, 00400 General Manual Welding, 09100 argon gas tungsten electrode welding, 09700 Semi-automatic
00900 Mud (A), 00901 Mud (B, C), 00902 Mud (C), 00903 Mud (B, C), 00903 Mud (C), 01800 Reinforced (C), 01900 Formwork (C), 03900 Door and window carpentry (A, B, C), 06201 Mobile crane operation - retractable arm Single), 06202 Mobile Crane Operation - Extension (Single), 06203 Mobile Crane Operation - Extension (Simulation System) (Single), 06900 Construction Engineering Management (A, B), 07001 Heavy Machinery Operation - Earth Pusher (Single), 07002 Heavy Machinery Operation - Excavator (Single), 07006 Heavy Machinery Operation - Excavator (Simulation System) Single), 07004 heavy machinery operation - shovel loader (single), 07005 heavy machinery operation - general loader (single), 12500 building interior design (B), 17500 concrete (C), 18000 construction engineering management (A, B), 22000 occupational safety management (A), 22100 occupational health management (A)
01200 Furniture Carpentry (A, B, C), 01900 Template (A, B), 04200 Survey (C), 04202 Survey - Engineering Survey (A, B), 04203 Survey - Cadastre Survey (A, B), 08101 Sewer Facilities Operation and Maintenance - Pipe and Drainage System (B), 08102 Sewer Facilities Operation and Maintenance - Electrical Equipment (B), 08103 Sewer Facilities Operation and Maintenance - Treatment System (B) 08104 Operation and Maintenance of Sewerage Facilities - Water Quality Inspection (B), 12600 Building Interior Renovation Engineering Management (B), 13600 Garden Landscape (B), 17100 Decorative Carpentry (B), 17401 Construction Waterproofing - Stitching Waterproofing (C), 17402 Construction Waterproofing - Cement Waterproofing (C), 17403 Construction Waterproofing - Baking Waterproofing (C), 17404 Construction Waterproofing Waterproof sheet construction (C), Waterproof coating construction (C), Waterproof coating construction (C), Waterproof construction (C), Waterproof construction (C), Waterproof construction (C), Waterproof construction (C), Waterproof construction (C), Waterproof construction (C), Waterproof construction (C), Waterproof construction (C), Waterproof construction (B), 21101 Drawing Application - Computer Drawing (C), 21102 Building Drawing Application - Hand Drawing (C)
22200 Occupational Safety and Health Management (B)
# Single # Mobile # Waterproof # Operation # Job

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

educational programs
vocational training

The Ministry of Labor provides training and technical skills registration for migrant workers, including women, to obtain crane operation certifications.

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

educational programs
vocational training
inclusive policies

Tata Steel Meramandali is promoting gender balance and providing training for female operators, including on-the-job training and safety induction.

Title:

Content: Follow Us:

Woman breaks gender barrier to operate Hyva

Subodh Pandey, Vice President, TSM, congratulated the new recruits and interacted with them along with other executives of TSM Sandeep Dhir, Chief, Human Resource Business Partner, Subrata Basak, Chief, Logistics Operation and Suvransu Sekhar Rout, Chief, RMHS & Raw Material Processing Plant, TSM.

Statesman News Service | Bhubaneswar |

Breaking the gender barrier, four women employees are on the strenuous job as Stacker-cum Reclaimer (SCR) raw material handling system (RMHS) at the Tata Steel Meramandali (TSM) in Dhenkanal district of Odisha.

Besides, a woman has been assigned the job for Hyva operator. It is for the first time that female employees will shoulder the responsibilities as SCR operators in Tata steel’s Meramandali unit, the company said in a statement.

Subodh Pandey, Vice President, TSM, congratulated the new recruits and interacted with them along with other executives of TSM Sandeep Dhir, Chief, Human Resource Business Partner, Subrata Basak, Chief, Logistics Operation and Suvransu Sekhar Rout, Chief, RMHS & Raw Material Processing Plant, TSM.

 “We are extremely pleased to have you in our team as this marks a monumental milestone on gender balance among the workforce in the plant. While accelerating our commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, this measure will also encourage more girls to look for such jobs”, Pandey said.

 “As a responsible corporate, we not only strongly believe in the diversity of our human capital but also guide our vendor partners to imbibe our beliefs and contribute to it. This is directed to reimagining how a job gets done, reshaping the team and empowering employees wherever they work”, Basak said while speaking on the occasion.

Breaking the barrier, the female SCR operators with Diploma in Mechanical Engineering underwent safety induction and on the job training, prior to their on boarding for stacking and reclaiming operation, considered mostly as a male-only job, the statement added.

How has the level of discrimination for female employees in the construction industry changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

commit to gender equality in hiring practices

create training and apprenticeship programs

appoint women to traditionally male roles

What positive experiences are highlighted in the personal stories of successful women in construction and maritime industries, especially of female crane operators?

The government can promote gender equality in construction and maritime by offering training and encouraging companies to hire women.

Title:

Content: Labour Minister urges women to become multi-skilled

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, MP, is urging women to start thinking outside the box, and not let society determine the kind of jobs they should be doing.

The Minister was at the time addressing residents during a recent Cabinet outreach to Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam). He said it is important for women to emancipate themselves from thoughts that they must only work in a particular field.  He said he is pushing for young persons, especially women to be multi-skilled.

“I want when I am doing heavy duty equipment operator programme in Region Two, there are women in the programme… that is where the money is at. I am saying to women you have to start thinking differently, and I am encouraging people, who do training in the Region, every programme that is supposed to be male dominated programme, they have to ensure women are in the programme.”

The minister also urged the women to take advantage of the other programmes offered by Government, to qualify themselves.

Since taking office, the Ministry of Labour has made training a priority across the country, especially for young people. To fulfil the mandate, steps have been put in place to train over 35,000 people.

Every region now has its own Board of Industrial Training (BIT) Officer who works with residents to craft training programmes based on the needs of their respective communities.

Recently, the labour ministry donated a number of electrical sewing machines and other materials to women in Matthews Ridge, Region One.

In August 2021, the ministry allocated a plot of land in Mahdia, Region Eight for the construction of the town’s first-ever industrial training centre.

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What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

commit to gender equality in hiring practices

create training and apprenticeship programs

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

educational programs
vocational training
inclusive policies

Li Rui, a female tower crane driver, is an example of a woman succeeding in a male-dominated field, and companies can provide training to help others follow.

Title:

Content: People 's Daily Online > > Economy and Technology
Let farmers live sesame blossoms high
January 14, 2022 06: 07 | Source: People's Daily - People's Daily
Small number
Figure 1: Shuangfeng County in Hunan Province develops lantern manufacturing and processing industry, driving farmers to increase income.
Recently, in the employment poverty alleviation workshop of Sangyuan community in Jinkai Street, employees are driving red lanterns.
Photo by Naijihui (People 's Vision)
Figure 2: In the corn drying field of Sanzha Village, Sanzha Town, Ganzhou District, Zhangye City, Gansu Province, large-scale thresher carried out corn threshing operations.
Photo by Yang Yongwei (People 's Vision)
Source: Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs
Core reading
Just past 2021, from the beginning to the end of the year, the majority of farmers worked hard and worked hard, in exchange for heavy harvests.
This year, absolute poverty has been eradicated, mountains and villages have changed dramatically, mountains and rivers have become a well-off society, and things have been good for the people and the years have been good.
Looking back, the harvest is full; looking forward, the future can be expected.
This year, the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) will be held to ensure a stable and healthy economic environment and a peaceful social environment.
The new journey of the new mission, the development of "three rural" to open a new chapter, consolidate and expand the achievements of poverty alleviation, comprehensively promote rural revitalization, so that the majority of farmers' lives sesame flowers high, the field of hope is full of vitality.
Grain farmer Qiu Jiebo
High efficiency chain extension
Our reporter is calm.
"As long as we find the right way, there is a great future for agriculture," said Qiu Jiebo, an 85-year-old in Qinyan Village, Henghe Town, Cixi City, Zhejiang Province.
University mechanical engineering graduate, he returned to the village in 2010, registered a family farm, planting wheat, rice and other food crops, and now has been dealing with crops for more than 10 years.
Gideon has a good policy.
The city will give 20,000 to 30,000 yuan a year to college students under the age of 35 who return to their hometown to start businesses.
Qiu Jiebo said that many young people have gone out to work, and the village still relies on machinery and technology to grow land.
In June 2020, Qiu Jiebo purchased the first unmanned rice transplanter in Cixi City, relying on Beidou positioning system and Internet of Things technology to “intelligently upgrade ” the traditional rice transplanter. Qiu Jiebo lamented:“ The intelligent agricultural machine can plan the optimal route by itself, complete automatic rice transplanting, intelligent obstacle avoidance, turning and other operations, which is very convenient! ”
In Cixi, the late rice harvest begins in early November every year, which is also the busiest day of Qiu Jiebo - receive the study tour team during the day, take the students to experience cutting rice, beating rice, drying, and grasp the processing of rice at night, packaging finished rice.
"Last year, I planted more than 200 mu of rice, all of 'Jiahe 218' high-quality japonica rice, each mu yield of thousands of jin, half sold to the grain warehouse, about 1.5 yuan per jin. The rest of the processing sold to the market." Qiu Jiebo said of the grain industry is very proud.
Over the years, he registered a trademark and took the brand route, "our rice can sell 3.5 to 4 yuan per catty, and the husk is provided to the farmers as feed, 7 yuan per catty, and the gross profit can reach more than 100,000 yuan a year."
From planting to hosting, to processing and sales, and rice paddies to study, Qiu Jiebo tasted the sweetness of elongating the food industry chain.
The town is a key food producing area in Cixi City.
In the past two years, the town has set up a professional cooperative association of Jinsui Agricultural Machinery Service Co., Ltd., and the young Qiu Jiebo was elected as the head of the association. Grain farmers integrate into the modern agricultural industry chain.
Qiu Jiebo said confidently: "We will definitely expand the area of grain growing."
A few days ago, the farm has signed a new transfer contract for 300 acres of land.
Next, we must strengthen rice processing, carry out socialized services, and let more farmers meet a bumper harvest through mechanized grain growing. "
Expatriate worker Li Rui
Stable income in hand
This reporter is often Qin
Li Rui started a new day of work at a construction site in Xiongan New District of the Second Bureau of China Construction and Construction: Wear gloves, fasten safety belts, and prevent falling ropes, and in less than five minutes, skilfully climbed from the ground to the 50-meter high cab.
As a tower crane female driver, this less than 5 square meters of the "square grid" is Li Rui's big stage - hook, lift, yard... a series of actions clean, steel, cement, scaffold pipe and other building materials are accurately placed in the designated position.
"Eye sharp, accurate, careful, eat craft rice, heart steady!" Li Rui spirit, it is difficult to connect this double fiber slim hand with the huge tower crane boom.
In March 2021, Li Rui bid farewell to his hometown, Guizhou Bijie, and came to Xiongan New Area to work. "Less than one year, she saved more than 70,000 yuan."
The job of a tower crane driver is not easy to do.
Li Rui said: "At the beginning of climbing up and down, the legs are soft, palms are sweating, and every day to complete the workload of 80 to 100 cranes, which requires excellent psychological quality and superb operation skills." And...
A skill in hand, the monthly income "rose high", rose to more than 9,000 yuan.
Li Rui told reporters that the construction site has now set up a "special account" mechanism for the payment of wages for migrant workers.
"The monthly salary hits the personal card on time, timely and convenient.
I give money to my old relatives every month, and I feel full of achievement.
This is not, and to the child to buy a phone watch, direct video call, can be convenient! "
In addition to income, Li Rui also praised the living conditions of the construction site. “In winter, you can take a hot bath at any time. ” She said that the construction site is getting better and better for migrant workers, and every dormitory is equipped with air conditioning, 24-hour hot water, and the food is delicious and the price is not expensive.
Now the construction industry for technical jobs more and more demand, speaking of their career planning, Li Rui out a "learning investment plan": she every month from the salary to take part in the purchase of learning materials and apply for professional certificates, "art more than pressure, I plan to test an excavator certificate."
In the past year, the construction of Xiong'an New Area has been changing with each passing day, and buildings have been constantly refreshing the "height".
Li Rui is not only a "beautiful dancer" in the sky, but also a witness to the growth of the Xiongan New Area. "Look, this is the building I took from the height, beautiful..." From digging the foundation to building the tall building, from the mud and water to planting, a photo in the mobile phone is the common growth log of Li Rui and this new city.
"My New Year 's wish is to bring my children to the construction site and tell him about the happiness of growing up with the city." Li Rui' s words are full of pride.
Zhang Kang, Head of the Village Revitalization Team
Raise the lives of the poor to a higher level
Our reporter Wang Hao, Li Xiaoqing
The green mountains are stacked, a ridge of tea trees like a green belt coiled.
Zhang Kang took a deep breath, refreshing air accompanied by the fragrance of tea into the heart and spleen, "good ecology will certainly grow a good product."
In May 2021, Zhang Kang, who works at the statistical bureau of the Enshi Family Miao Autonomous Prefecture in Hubei Province, “moved ” his office to the deep mountains and became the leader of the village revitalization team of Dongzhou Village in Hefeng County.
After taking over the baton, he took lessons from the former team leader, and then held a forum without stopping and looking for villagers to do their homework.
Zhang Kang, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the remarks at a meeting with visiting
Opening the account book of the village: In 2018, the whole village was lifted out of poverty, and cement roads and running water were opened; in 2020, the per capita net income of farmers was more than 12,000 yuan...
The industry ’ s “strength ” is growing.
In the past, the villagers almost planted tea at home, but these years the market changes fast, the villagers can not keep up. "As long as we find the advantages, improve the industrial competitiveness, tea will be able to sell a good price." Zhang Kang calculated that the village is clean and beautiful, this is the biggest advantage, take the road of green development, and can not be wrong.
How to promote the new technology? Will the villagers accept it? There are many challenges ahead.
Zhang Kang and the team members held a mobilization meeting in the village, looking for large growers to demonstrate, and helping the villagers to pick up the fine accounts. "We docked with the tea factory, and the quality is good, which is higher than the market price." A trip to work, everyone's bottom is enough.
"With the organic fertilizer, the output has increased, the quality of tea is better, and each mu can earn 500 yuan more," tea farmer She Kunming said.
A family of tea farmers signed a commitment to green production, and a number of tea gardens were upgraded to ecological tea gardens.
At the end of the year, the price of fresh tea per catty was 50 yuan higher, and the tea industry is expected to drive farmers to increase their income by 3.5 million yuan a year.
With good mountains and good water, the development potential of the village is not small.
It is the new exploration of the village task force to make a workshop in the field and a tea garden into a park.
Zhang Kang opened a plan, 22 project construction points are densely marked, "When the forest fruit picking park, education and research base and other infrastructure is built, the planting and sales links can be opened," the "season harvest" becomes "season harvest", Zhang Kang said.
In October 2021, some villagers encountered a water problem. “The water tap at home does not water. ” Zhang Kang and village cadres investigated the problem, opened up water sources, and laid water pipes, and 17 villagers quickly drank tap water.
"Good management of water, in order to long-term benefit." The village team organized the villagers to set up a drinking water association, 19 pools, 25 water cellars have a special person responsible, many beneficiary farmers, party members representatives actively participate in the daily patrol.
The premise of rural revitalization is to consolidate the achievements of poverty alleviation. "We do everything in the village well, ensure that the help is kept in the file, and lead the villagers to stride toward the goal of prosperous industry, rural beauty, and rich farmers." Zhang Kangdao made his New Year's wish.
Layout: Cai Huawei
People 's Daily (January 14, 2022, 18 pages)
(Editor: Yang Guangyu, Yue Hongbin)
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How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

How has the level of discrimination for female employees in the construction industry changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

Diverse teams drive innovation and business success, increasing earnings by 25% or more.

Title:

Content: Subscribe to Entrepreneur for $5
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2022, diverse teams will be key to the development of companies

Inclusion and diversity in work teams drives innovation. We are stronger when we run a business that cares about its communities and the world we live in. Let's toast 2022 with more opportunities for women.

By
This article was translated from our Spanish edition using AI technologies. Errors may exist due to this process. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

In the early 1990s the auto industry unveiled an innovation in car manufacturing: the airbag . By October 2001, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimated that airbags had saved more than 7,500 lives. But these first airbags also killed 195 people during this period, mostly children and women under 1.70 meters. The force of the airbag impact on small bodies was brutal and until then this data was unknown.

The reason? In those years, airbag tests were done with mannequins with exclusively male characteristics and not with measurements of shorter female bodies or children. It wasn't until 2011 that the US government began requiring the auto industry to test “female” dummies. In Sweden, the road safety expert Astrid Linder had the solution because, together with her team, she designed EvaRid , the female prototype that helped manufacturers develop vehicles that would protect both men and women.

The story of the first female mannequin created by Linder reaffirms the importance of including more women in the work teams of various corporations. Without Astrid Linder's vision, the auto industry could have taken longer to develop a safe driving option for us.

Diversity and female inclusion in companies is not a whim, but a necessity that benefits society and also companies. McKinsey & Company's global Diversity wins: How inclusion matters study - surveying more than 1,000 companies from 15 countries - found that organizations with diverse and inclusive work teams have 25% or more chances of having earnings above the average, in relation to other similar companies.

Fortunately during these pandemic months, 78% of medium-sized companies are already promoting actions in favor of the desired gender parity and with it, generating a cultural change. 34% are focusing on creating an inclusive culture and ensuring equitable access to more development opportunities and 31% are committed to continuing with flexible work for the benefit of more women.

We know that cultural transformations do not happen overnight, but the priority is for industries to accelerate their processes of female inclusion by 2022. The pandemic brought some setbacks that must be alleviated. As if it were a choir where diverse voices with different harmonic qualities work for a common good; thus, companies must take advantage of equal opportunities both the talent of women and men.

In a post-pandemic world, the empathy, creativity, commitment and versatility of female leadership are needed, as well as assertive communication and a willingness to change. More women are also needed in work teams because precisely they are the ones who most support the diversity, equity and inclusion efforts of organizations.

Creating an inclusive environment in companies can start with some concrete actions such as the following:

1. Speak up for inclusion : Royal Bank of Canada considers it important that the organization's executives and managers receive training on topics related to inclusion and diversity. Like this institution, my suggestion is that companies design a set of communication initiatives that encourage community members to build a solid culture of inclusion.

2. Diversity strategies: some companies such as GAP have a Diversity and Inclusion Council where an advisory group made up of corporate executives and organization leaders develop diversity and inclusion strategies. All the company's actions on inclusion and diversity are also implemented in its business strategies.

3. Professional development programs : invest in the development of educational programs and / or leadership programs that ensure the company has a portfolio of talented and high-potential women; while it gives women the option of developing a career.

4. Celebrate employee differences: Diversity and inclusion behaviors should be celebrated. This is one of the most important ways to show employees that they are respected.

In a few days we will celebrate the arrival of 2022. Many companies prepare their action plan on issues of equality and inclusion because they know that creating diverse work teams that promote an inclusive culture has a positive impact on both society and their business strategies . We are stronger when we run a business that cares about its communities and the world we live in.

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Diverse teams, including female leadership, bring higher earnings, empathy, and creativity.

Creating an inclusive environment starts with executive training and diversity strategies in business plans.

Professional development programs can support female career growth and promote societal and company benefits through inclusion.

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

Georgia Harper, a 22-year-old trainee site engineer, aims to break down stereotypes in the building industry through apprenticeship and training.

Title:

Content: Jump directly to the content
NAILING IT

I’m a female builder – people are always shocked when I turn up on site, especially when I have my lashes and nails done

WHEN they first meet her, people are often surprised by construction worker Georgia Harper's choice of career.

Come rain or shine, the 22-year-old can be found on muddy building sites four days a week, working in a still predominantly male-dominated environment.

For Georgia though - who works as a trainee site engineer for Caddick Construction - it's the best job in the world, and all she's ever wanted to do.

Now, she's determined to break down old, outdated stereotypes that come with the building industry, and inspire more women to pursue a career in construction.

However she does admit people are still often quite surprised when she tells them what she does, and when she turns up to sites.

She says: "People always ask 'Why would you want to do that? It's dirty and cold'.

"I like to have my nails and eyelashes done from time to time, so when people meet me, ‘a woman in construction’, it's not always what they expect.

"I always have a laugh on site when anybody asks for the engineer and I turn up, as they’re usually quite surprised!"

'It's in my blood'

Even as a child, Georgia knew she wanted to go into the building industry.

She says: "When I was a young girl at primary school, I would often ask my dad if I could go to work with him delivering materials to building sites.

"It was here really that my early passions for construction were set alight.

"I loved to see all the different jobs going on around me, bringing such a huge build to life.

"I’d just think to myself, “this is amazing!”

"It’s also worth mentioning that my grandfather was a building surveyor, so it’s definitely in my blood!

"I’ve always wanted to be a site manager so becoming an apprentice engineer on site was the perfect foot in the door; I was getting some real hands-on experience."

'I'm on site four days a week'

Georgia's passion for construction carried through after she left school, and she pursued it professionally.

She says: "After college, I was encouraged into a university course, in urban studies and planning that didn’t quite suit my learning style.

"I soon left the course to pursue a more hands-on route into the industry and found the perfect apprenticeship with Caddick.

"Now, I’m on construction sites four days a week, with just one day at a desk at college.

"Caddick has given me so many training opportunities in the short time I’ve been with them and I’ve already got a lot of courses under my belt from first aid to fire marshalling.

"Before I secured my apprenticeship, I did get in touch with my local planning department and a local architecture firm where I was able to do some work experience, which was brilliant."

'I want to inspire other women'

Now, Georgia couldn't imagine doing anything else.

She says: "I love what I do so much and I just can’t believe that I’ve found myself in this industry.

"A lot of what I do is groundwork for big building projects, so it’s really rewarding to know that none of the final build would be possible without those foundations.

"I’m so proud everyday to do what I do, especially in a male dominated environment.

"Inspiring other women to get into it is definitely something I love doing.

"One thing I hadn’t anticipated when taking up a trade, was the diversity of each working day and the amount of amazing people you meet.

"We have new tradespeople on site everyday so you’re constantly interacting with a whole range of new people."

'There are drawbacks'

However, Georgia admits it can be challenging at times working in such a male-dominated environment.

She says: "Being a young woman in construction doesn’t come without its drawbacks.

"There aren’t always older female role models on site and not having somebody to relate to can be challenging.

"That’s why it’s really important to me to help drive change regarding the industry’s demographic.

"It can also be very arduous in the winter when it’s dark and cold, but in summer when the sun’s out, it’s the best job in the world!

"I love the guys that I work with, we have a great team on site, but I would love for more and more women to step into site roles in construction.

"You often find that women in the industry lean towards office-based roles, whether that’s design and architecture or administration but women are perfect for this job.

"With my work at Caddick, I’ve been invited into schools and colleges to speak to the students about what it is we do.

"When I was studying, I was one of three girls on my course.

"Now, there’s more of a 50/50 split in those classrooms, and it’s so great to see the next wave of women in construction coming through."

Climbing the career ladder

For career-focused Georgia, the only way is up from here.

She says: "Having an apprenticeship definitely has a positive impact on your financial prospects.

"Because I've got real life experience that my university counterparts don’t necessarily have, it just gives you an extra step up from entry level.

"From my role now as trainee site engineer there are loads of progression routes and the money definitely grows as you climb that ladder."

Topics

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

create training and apprenticeship programs

What challenges do women in the construction and maritime  industries face?

US construction women comprise 14.1 percent of the sector, with about a third working in deals.

Title:

Content: Daytime Plus
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Women break into construction sector to fill labour shortages
Bloomberg: The number of construction workers in the United States exceeded 1 million in May last year, for the first time since data collection began in 1964, and the share of women among workers in the sector reached its highest level at 14.1 percent last month.
About a third of construction workers in the United States are Hispanic, according to BLS.
Cerato herself got to know the industry at an early age through her Mexican immigrant father, saying, “I used to go out to work with him, and I never saw anyone like me, so it never occurred to me that it could be a viable career path. ”
The presence of another Latina as a mentor made a big difference, she said, adding: “That ’ s why our representation is important. ”
One of the women is Andy Dirkschneider, who negotiates millions of dollars in loans to buy land for her family ’ s homebuilder, but sometimes vendors call her “petite ” and ask to speak to the man in charge.
Dirkschneider, 32, who heads Brookline Homes in Charlotte, said: “I tell them I ’ m the man in charge.
A young blonde girl doing this job confuses everyone.
It ’ s frustrating, but it can ’ t be allowed to. ”
Dirkschneider and thousands of women like her are breaking through the walls of the professions.
It is not brittle, it is concrete.
The field of construction has always been a world for men, from handicrafts such as construction and carpentry to the offices of developers and executive companies.
The accelerating wave of retirement of the 1960s and 1970s generation has exacerbated the industry ’ s chronic labor shortage.
Construction jobs totaled 440,000 in April, the highest in Bureau of Labor Statistics records that began in 2001.
Aryan Higuish, a senior researcher and fellow at the Women ’ s Policy Research Institute, said there is room for growth, because the construction sector ’ s historical dependence on men now risks constraining its growth.
The institute estimates that about a third of women in the industry work in deals, and their share across sectors such as painting and carpentry is still as small as a tenth, though Higuish believes it will continue to grow.
This is partly because of the need for labor and because states and local administrations want to see more diversity in companies when they are awarded contracts.
Patrice Haley, of the diversity leadership team at construction giant DPR, said: “In this industry, we can ’ t dismiss people on the basis of gender.
“A lot of veterans are retiring, and we can ’ t leave any of the doors closed. ”
One of the temptations for women in the industry, Haley said, was to see what they were building right in front of their eyes, and she had started working in the industry in a manual job that required wearing a helmet and toe boots.
She said, "I can say I worked on this and built that."
There ’ s also the temptation to pay better than many other jobs that don ’ t require a college degree: In 2021, the average salary of an electrician was $59,000 and $98,500 for a construction manager, according to U.S. Department of Labor data.
Taqiya Wallace, 35, works for a large energy company in tracking construction project documents.
But she dreams of getting a license as a general contractor to start working on her own.
In June, I began studying building skills in a 16-week curriculum organized by Goodwill Industries in South Piedmont, Charlotte, where I learned to read blueprints and handle equipment.
If all goes according to plan, she will finish training with four industry certifications.
Although Goodwill does not target women, its organizers say a group of 15 people who completed training last year were all women, about half of whom went on to work in industry jobs.
Wallace, who was the first to receive a college degree in her family, sees getting a contractor ’ s license and hanging a sign for her company as a way to build the wealth she can bequeath to her family.
She said, “I want to be able to tell them this is our legacy. ”
Harassment and discrimination
Despite these encouraging trends, the sector still has a long way to go.
About a quarter of respondents to a survey of 2,635 workers conducted by the Women ’ s Policy Research Institute last year said they had experienced sexual harassment or repeated harassment on the basis of sex.
Half of those surveyed said that their lack of equal treatment by men was frequent or persistent.
Jenny Parker stood at a construction site in High Point, North Carolina, on a very hot day in July, grabbing a paper cup with an iced drink as she looked at her sawdust, paint and sweat stained shirt and said, "I love this.
It took me 10 years to get here. ”
Parker, who spent nine years in the Marine Corps, was upset by the managerial jobs she worked so she could pay her bills while raising her daughter, so she started working hard in real estate.
She signed up for training in building skills so she could repair the rental housing she owned.
At High Point, Parker received hands-on training in building house structures, performing stone work, and installing roofs.
She said she was able to work in partnership with the men on the team, but there were tensions at times, adding: “To be female in a male environment you have to prove yourself and work twice as hard, ” noting that some men do not accept instructions from a woman.
She said, “It ’ s a mindset that men should overcome. ”
Nicole Goulsby, owner of Red Ladder Residential, a construction company in Raleigh, North Carolina, recalls that when she started running worksites, some men ignored her when she addressed them.
She said her experience of bias faded when she distributed her signed paychecks, and she now notes that there are more women on the crews she contracts, whether they ride boards or paint.
Golsby explained that women build relationships easily and are more attentive to details, making them suitable for her field of work.
Nicknamed “Becky Nicky, ” Golsby said,“ I see things that no one else sees, and that ’ s why I do my job well. ”
The construction industry is also attracting more minority women.
An analysis by the Women ’ s Policy Research Institute found that the number of female construction apprentices between 2016 and 2019 nearly doubled, while Latinas recorded the largest increase of any race.
If we look at Ferridiana Cerato who graduated from college in 2020 with a double major in history and Spanish without being able to find any job that would enable her to benefit from her education well, she decided to try construction management.
Cerato took courses and received some certificates, including a certificate in welding.
She is now a project engineer in Indianapolis.
The job requires toughness, the 24-year-old says, with a lot of conversational “that doesn ’ t conform to HR rules ” and dealing with cynicism at times.
Cerato is one of three women in a team of nine managers and the only Latina among them.
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How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

A quarter of women on construction sites faced sexual harassment, while half experienced unequal treatment.

What challenges do women in the construction and maritime  industries face?

attitudinal biases
sexual and workplace harrassment

Female construction apprentices nearly doubled from 2016 to 2019, led by Latinas.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

What specific groups of women have been entering the construction industry in greater numbers recently?

Leighton offers paid maternity and paternity leave and flexible work policies to support work-life balance.

Title:

Content: Leighton looks to revolutionize construction to promote a diverse and inclusive work environment
Contract 14: 00 2022 / 07 / 05
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When it comes to the construction industry, many people will immediately think of a group of "real men of workers" who work day and night on the ground sweating like rain, forming a gender stereotype.
Leighton Asia (Leighton), which has been based in Hong Kong for more than 46 years, hopes to transform the male dominated image of the construction industry and create a diverse and inclusive working environment to inspire creativity and enhance team performance.
Leighton is an international construction company with parent company CIMIC Group based in Australia and team members from different countries.
Diversity and inclusion are the core values of the Group, regardless of the gender, age, race, cultural background, marital status or family status of employees, so that each employee can play their role in a diverse, equal and respectful work environment.
Creating a Family-Friendly Work Environment
As the times change, more and more women choose to enter the construction industry, Leighton has been continuously optimizing the working environment and policies to meet the development and needs of employees.
Among them, Leighton is a pioneer in the industry, providing employees with paid maternity leave and paternity leave that exceed the statutory requirements, and with flexible work policies, allowing employees to pursue their careers while taking care of their families.
Attracting female professionals to join the industry
Leighton also established the WOICE (Women in Construction and Engineering) network to enhance the care and support of employees, provide more training and further training opportunities, and work with different organizations to share the career development of women in the industry and attract women to join the construction industry.
WOICE covers all employees and enhances employee care and support.
Leighton currently employs about 20% of its workforce in Hong Kong.
Through recruitment and promotion, the company aims to achieve equal gender representation of interns and trainee engineers in the future, and to increase the proportion of female executives to more than 20%.
Leighton actively leads the industry in promoting a diverse and inclusive working environment to attract more women to join the construction industry.
Building an inclusive and diverse working environment is just one part of Leighton ’ s corporate social responsibility, and we will continue to work on different indicators to achieve sustainable development and bring more benefits to the community.
(Special offer)

What positive experiences are highlighted in the personal stories of successful women in construction and maritime industries, especially of female crane operators?

support and assistance from management
being able to support their families
being able to combine work and family

Leighton established a WOICE network to support female employees and aims for equal gender representation in interns and trainees.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

commit to gender equality in hiring practices

What are governments doing to promote and aid women in construction or maritime industries?

What positive experiences are highlighted in the personal stories of successful women in construction and maritime industries, especially of female crane operators?

Ukrainian women are filling "male" professions due to labor shortages, with companies like Meest and ATB employing all-women teams.

Title:

Content: ua en ru
(not) women's professions.
How the war has changed the labor market, and Ukrainian women are increasingly mastering “male ” professions
The war has replaced the labor market, and Ukrainian women are increasingly mastering “male ” professions (Getty Images)
Author: Spetsproekt
Since the beginning of the full-scale war in many areas of the Ukrainian labor market there is a shortage of personnel.
In particular, there is a shortage of specialists in professions that are usually considered “male ”.
However, employers are ready to attract women to atypical positions, and Ukrainian women more actively respond to such vacancies and undergo retraining.
Meest, ATB and Ferrexpo tell about the professions in which women replace men during the war - in a special project for RBC-Ukraine.
Meest Group: whole women ’ s teams occupying “male ” positions
In the international postal and logistics group of companies Meest, historically, women are an integral part of the team: they work with finance, personnel, marketing, are regional directors and partners.
At the same time, due to the specifics of the work - sorting, transportation, logistics - the linear staff of the company, which is two-thirds of the staff, previously consisted mainly of men.
After the start of Russia ’ s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, this began to change.
According to the company, since February 2022, part of Meest has joined the Defense Forces: today, the state is protected by more than 130 employees of the company.
Many were forced to change their place of residence within the country or even go abroad.
“We clearly saw a change in trend around the summer of 2022.
At that time, we were able to solve the most critical issues with the help of employees, adaptation of operational work, etc.
And they restored the recruitment of people to positions that, for one reason or another, were vacant.
We noticed that it is women who respond most actively, including roles that were previously considered purely male, ” the company added.
Since then, companies have begun to attract women, and over the following months this trend has only intensified.
As of now, Meest has formed entire women ’ s teams, occupying “male ” positions.
In total, these are three categories of personnel: employees of warehouses, sorting centers, as well as heads of operational departments.
“If earlier our warehouse teams were more than 80% men, now some units are 70% women.
The distribution of the staff of warehouse centers has also changed significantly - in some areas it is already 50% to 50%, sometimes even with the advantage of female staff.
To do this, the company has changed some operational processes, as well as introduced technology so that women were comfortable working in new conditions, ” Meest said.
At first, the involvement of women in the composition, logistics were treated with caution: the work is extremely difficult both physically and morally.
Within a few months, all doubts were gone.
Women ’ s teams and women show extremely effective work.
The company distinguishes their consistency and structure, as well as elasticity and adaptability.
In general, they are always open to new knowledge and opportunities - and they are strongly supported in this.
The changes also affected the management of the operating departments – now the company has many women in these positions, more than in previous years.
And it is important that in many cases, the leaders grow from the inner team.
For example, during the war, a woman became the head of a branch in one of the regional centers, who had previously worked as an operator at this location - and now performs her own functions without complaint.
“Our plans are to attract women to the posts of couriers.
This area also has its own challenges, because we deliver packages up to 30 kg inclusive.
Therefore, here the company needs to adjust to allow women to work with less weight - and work in this direction is already underway, "the company said.
In the near future, Meest is convinced that the most active will be two categories of search engines – women, as well as veterans and veterans.
They need changes in recruiting and operating processes, so the company is actively working on this: they introduce new technologies and procedures for both women and veterans of both sexes, and for the latter they began to attract psychologists for the purpose of moral support.
“In the end, we see that our people are ready to work and give results under any circumstances.
The main thing is to create comfortable and transparent conditions for them, ” the company concluded.
ATB: the company of strong women
As of today, more than 56 thousand Ukrainians are employed at ATB enterprises, 67% of which are representatives of the fair sex.
Historically, work in grocery retail is considered female, although it requires maximum involvement and dedication.
As the experience of the company has shown, for a Ukrainian woman there is no night impossible.
Leading programmer of the company Kristina Mishchenko at one time made an ascent to the mountain with a height of 6,500 m, set the Ukrainian flag and the ATB flag on the top.
As of today, more than 4.5 thousand ATB employees have joined the ranks of the APU, the Defense Ministry and the National Guard.
If you count only male staff, then about 30% of men are mobilized.
In view of this, women have already adapted, for example, to work as security guards.
On average, almost every store in the network has such an employee.
The number of women involved in what was previously thought to be purely male positions depends on the circumstances, but in some cases it reaches 50%.
The personnel policy of the company is aimed at the development of human resources.
If a woman seeks to become a specialist of an extra-class, to take the coveted position, then a priori cannot be any conventions.
In particular, we are talking about the so-called division into traditionally "female" or "male" positions.
However, it is important to understand that not all women can do men ’ s work.
The complete absence of gender stereotypes in the company proves that more than two thirds of the staff are women.
Among colleagues and business partners, ATB is even called a company of strong women.
“Through dedicated work, the company has withstood the powerful blow of a full-scale invasion, acquired the title of“ network of indestructibility ” and became an outpost of food security of the whole country, ” the company says.
In the ATB, there were many examples of how women work effectively and quickly climb the career ladder in professions that can be considered “male ”, for example, leading key regions, dealing with safety, security, etc.
Also, the company is proud of its training centers in Dnipro, Kiev, Lviv and Odessa.
Annually more than 4 thousand employees undergo free training and improve their skills there.
There are no gender restrictions or stereotypes.
“Women and men gain new skills, master the desired professions, become specialists of the highest level and quickly rise to career levels in the team of the leader of domestic retail.
As for the "male" professions, our women master the specialty of "loader driver".
It is possible to “work ” such physically difficult activities, but such a replacement will be incredibly valuable and very slow.
Therefore, the solution of this issue was taken into their hands by our guardians, ” the ATB stated.
Ferrexpo: support for women 's leadership and decrees for men
Ferrexpo is one of the trendsetters of large Ukrainian business, demonstrating an integrated approach to issues of inclusiveness and gender equality.
In 2022, the company signed the Women ’ s Empowerment Principles to promote gender equality.
Therefore, one of the group's priorities is diversity at the managerial level and the promotion of career opportunities for women.
Since 2020, Ferrexpo has been implementing a comprehensive DE & I strategy, implementing the principles of inclusiveness and gender equality.
Thanks to her, over the past three years, the number of women in leadership positions in Grade 10 + (management staff) has increased by 60%.
The share of women in leadership positions in 2022 was 21%, the goal is to reach the figure of 25% by 2030.
“The introduction of ideas of gender equality has increased the stability of staff, readiness for innovation and the ability to respond quickly to the challenges of the time.
This decision allowed us to strengthen relations with foreign partners, because they are pleased to cooperate with companies where the same level of trust in managers and managers, ” the company said.
According to her, within enterprises, this has allowed to change the views of male skeptics and successfully overcome prejudices against female leaders.
The employees of the enterprises felt their value for the production process, which motivated them to further develop their professional qualities.
Elena Nikolaevchuk-Neroda, who has been working as a driver of motor vehicles in her career at Yeristovsky GOK since 2018, dreamed of driving a car since childhood.
This dream she was able to realize in Ferrexpo.
At one time, Elena was offered a job as a BelAZ driver, and she agreed, although she did not have previous experience driving such a car.
The nuances of work during the internship were taught by experienced mentors.
For 5 years of work, Elena worked in a career on a car, after obtaining a driving license of category C, she began to drive MAZ and KrAZ dump trucks.
Then switched to more powerful Bell and Caterpillar with a carrying capacity of 40 and 90 tons, already has a certificate that allows you to control the 220-ton.
In the future, Elena plans to master other mining equipment - a bulldozer and an excavator.
In addition, the company has a male decree program that allows women to continue their career growth.
If in the family of Ferrexpo employees a woman wants to leave maternity leave earlier in order to continue to grow professionally, a man can take care of the child until he reaches the age of three.
At the same time, the company takes care that the family income does not become less: if a man has a large salary, but goes on maternity leave and the family because of this decreases the total income, Ferrexpo compensates for this amount.
“The hardest thing about the decree is not being able to work, I missed my job very much.
I am grateful to the man who supported my desire to return to the workplace in a year.
This is our second daughter, so I am sure that my husband will cope, and I can safely perform everyday duties, ” admits Olga Romantsova, a specialist in the production department of the foundry and mechanical workshop.
The practice of “male ” decrees is gaining momentum, because the company understands the importance of development for both men and women.
In general, the company will emphasize that the Ferrexpo workforce is a community where everyone has access to equal opportunities - mastering new professions, improving skills, career growth and development of the company, regardless of gender.
In addition, the company received the opportunity to replenish the team with professional personnel (both men and women), especially with regard to vacancies that became critical in the conditions of martial law.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

appoint women to traditionally male roles

Ferrexpo has increased women in leadership by 60% since 2020, targeting 25% by 2030.

How has the gender balance in the construction and maritime industries changed over recent decades?

How has the level of discrimination for female employees in the construction industry changed over recent decades?

What are construction and maritime companies doing to promote and aid women in the field?

appoint women to traditionally male roles

commit to gender equality in hiring practices

Fewer than 5% of Global 500 companies have female CEOs, despite diverse teams being more innovative.

Title:

Content: Four Ways to Uplift Women in Male-Dominated Industries

I know what it’s like to be the only woman in the room, having spent hours, days, weeks and months in digital forensics classrooms and business conference rooms with few, if any, women alongside me.

At the same time, I also know what it’s like to achieve amazing things in collaboration with diverse teams who are working side by side. Each person at the table, male, female, non-binary, has valuable perspectives and viewpoints that can bridge gaps and solve tough problems.

Unfortunately, less than 5% of the Global 500 are run by female CEOs. While companies around the world are working hard to improve their diversity, inclusion and belonging, we have ongoing to do. Women are still hitting glass ceilings in the workplace, which reflects a cascade of missed opportunities for their own growth as well as the growth of the organisations where they work. There are countless benefits to female leadership and diverse teams, and numerous studies have reported that diverse teams are more innovative and significantly outperform less inclusive competitors.

Simply put, there’s no downside to modernising our workplaces so that they are inclusive and offer a work-life integration that works for people of all walks of life. Throughout my career, I’ve seen a lot of what works and what doesn’t in traditionally male-dominated industries. Like many women, I’ve also seen the unexpected challenges and changes that have resulted from the pandemic. Businesses are still finding new ways of working and new approaches to supporting flexibility in the workplace. These changes are helping women, yes, but the benefits extend to everyone.

What’s particularly exciting is the possibility of linking new ways of working, and what we’ve learned over the last year, with business and diversity objectives. There are several specific ways to do this. These include:

1: Address and break down stigmas

It’s essential to have an open, safe environment to talk about challenging issues, ensure people feel included and establish a culture wherein junior-level employees — especially women — are encouraged to speak up. Open and respectful discussion about hard topics, in addition to education about unconscious bias, will help eliminate stigmas tied to certain groups and lifestyles. For example, women have long grappled with the tension between having a career and having children. Mothers can and do have vibrant careers, but workplaces often lack the supports that help women effectively transition back into their roles after maternity leave. Even when women are supported in this way, many feel that their status as a mother will cause them to be overlooked for promotions or high priority work assignments. Organisations can do better on this front. Likewise, business leaders must also consider additional biases women face in the workplace, so that all women, not only mothers, can grow their careers at the same pace as their male counterparts.

2: Encourage healthy boundaries

Alongside breaking down stigmas, leaders must recognise that traditional views about work-life balance have become outdated. It’s clear that flexibility and work-life integration are not barriers to company success and productivity. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. As a new mother, I’ve battled with the guilt that comes with trying to satisfy every need. This feeling that that something, work or family, is continually under-prioritised is familiar to many women. I do believe there is a way for women to feel empowered at work, not hindered by it. Every employee has different needs and should therefore have the right to set the boundaries that will help them be successful in their professional and personal lives. Leaders must establish a culture that encourages employees to have a life outside of work, whether that is hobbies, exercise, family time or other forms of self care.

3: Reciprocal mentoring

Leaders should be collaborative and support their people. When employees have encouragement in the right direction, they are far more likely to engage in their jobs and stay with their employers for the long-haul. Reciprocal mentoring—wherein managers and executives listen to colleagues from a diverse set of backgrounds to hear their perspectives on what’s working and what’s not—is one practical way of creating a culture of support and inclusion. Through reciprocal mentoring, employees have the opportunity to shape how their leaders lead and the types of policies and programmes that are put in place across the organisation.

4: Acknowledge and support new mental health needs

Supporting mental health has always been an important responsibility for employers, but it’s taken on a new sense of urgency this past year. Employees are now grappling with the loss of their social and work connections and an unprecedented (and stressful) intersection of working and family life. These circumstances have taken a universal toll on well-being, and in many households, the heaviest burden has fallen on women.

We know there is no benefit to everyone being the same. People across all identities, from all racial and ethnic backgrounds, from all lifestyles, have unique, inherent strengths to offer. When all diverse perspectives are welcomed to the table, progress and innovation can happen. Leaders have a collective responsibility and opportunity to continue advancing this kind of positive change. When we do this boldly, alongside the execution of pragmatic programmes that ensure progress, we’ll have a real shot at creating workplaces that are more flexible, open and fit for the needs of the future.

By Laura Hayter,  FTI Consulting

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