Episode 7: Breaking Barriers WIC

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Episode Description

In this episode, Taylor and Hector dive into the challenges women face in construction — from being one of the few on site to navigating discrimination, lack of proper PPE, and the isolation that comes with breaking into a male-dominated industry. Taylor shares her personal story of choosing engineering despite being told she’d never make it, and together they explore the real barriers women encounter on jobsites every day. With data, lived experience, and practical steps for both individuals and companies, this conversation goes beyond awareness and pushes for real culture change.

Sources: Breaking Barriers WIC

1. Women in Construction – Overall Workforce: Women make up 11% of the overall construction industry.
   • Source: NCCER – Build Your Future Report
2. Women in the Trades: Only 4.3% of construction trades roles are held by women.
   • Source: NCCER – Build Your Future Report
3. PPE Access – Gender Friendly Equipment: 67% of women report gender-friendly safety equipment is unavailable.
   • Source: She Builds Nation Survey
4. PPE Access – Maternity Friendly Equipment: 85% of women report maternity-friendly safety gear is unavailable.
   • Source: She Builds Nation Survey
5. Restroom Access: 64% of women report challenges accessing gender-friendly restrooms on job sites.
   • Source: She Builds Nation Survey
6. Harassment in Construction: Over 25% of women report experiencing workplace harassment.
   • Source: Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR)
7. Discrimination: 66% of women report experiencing workplace discrimination in construction.
   • Source: National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS)

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