Reflecting on International Women’s Day, the mechanical contracting industry, and where we go from here

When I say I am in a unique position, it is because this industry is still predominantly a male-dominated sector. Across Canada, the construction industry employs more than 1.4 million people, but women make up only 12 per cent of that figure. And of that 12 per cent, more than three-quarters serve in offsite, office-based roles. The numbers are not representative of the total Canadian workforce, and that will need to change if our industry is to keep up with the anticipated demand.

But the question we are often faced with is what can be done to attract more women to our industry? How do we create an environment that is inclusive, inviting and rewarding for all individuals?

At MCAC, I am proud that our association had the progressive outlook to create the Women In Mechanical Construction Initiative (WiMC) two years ago. Following that, our association took another step forward at our 2019 Annual General Meeting when members voted unanimously to ensure a representative of that initiative would have a place on our Board of Directors.

Since launching, the initiative has continued to grow and gain momentum, and it remains an important part of what we are doing to promote the mechanical contracting sector. We are also incredibly fortunate to work with other organizations such as the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) and their Women in Mechanical Industry initiative, BuildForce Canada, the Canadian Construction Association, and our many MCA partners across Canada to ensure we are speaking with one voice about the importance of women in our industry.

Last year, our WiMC Chair and MCAC Board Member Julie Zulich perhaps said it best:

"As we celebrate this International Women’s Day, it is important that we reflect on the incredible progress that has been made to date in our industry and around the world. But most importantly, we should look to the future and what we are capable of achieving. A future that promotes equal opportunities and celebrates the achievements of all people, no matter their gender."

So, as we take the opportunity of International Women’s Day to reflect on the role of women in our industry, we must put this into the context of a broader strategy and goal to attract more workers to the mechanical contracting sector and the skilled trades. Our sector will be faced with increasing demands in the coming years, and it is as important as ever that we attract the best and the brightest to help us meet those demands.

As I mentioned, we are still in the early stages of this new initiative. However, as stakeholders in this industry, I believe that we all do a few things to shift perceptions, and create an inviting and exciting industry for years to come.

Success stories
One of the early topics we discussed at the outset of the Women in Mechanical Construction initiative was to make sure we are telling the success stories of women in our industry. Whether it is someone who has worked up the ranks on a job site into senior roles, or the women working in important management positions in our industry, these success stories illustrate just how inviting and inclusive our industry really is.

As an association, we are endeavouring to make sure these stories continue to be shared across Canada and throughout our industry so we can celebrate the women and females in the mechanical contracting sector.

Networking
One of the most important messages we share is to encourage involvement in associations, committees and industry groups. The value that comes from sharing experiences, information and knowledge in these environments cannot be overstated.

I have been fortunate over many years to be involved in a number of outside boards and committees, and each one of these experiences has provided me with great personal and professional connections. And, at the same time, we can use these environments to discuss important issues such as how we can attract the best and the brightest to our industry.

Mentorship
Perhaps most importantly, we have to provide the mentorship to women that will help them to define their path, and showcase the opportunities available to them.

Speaking from my own personal experience, I have had tremendous mentors who have given me new opportunities to learn, to thrive, and to excel in my work. Whether it was my former MCAC CEOs, or our Presidents and Chairs of the Board, these individuals have supported my professional development through their mentorship and guidance.

If we can encourage ongoing mentorship for women in this industry, we can help to create an environment where women in our industry are supported to take on any role.

As I mentioned, these three themes of success stories, networking and mentorship are all examples of what we can do to help support the women in our industry. If we can provide these, we are making great strides to create a more inclusive and respectful work environment, which is something I strongly believe in for our industry.

To that end, when I began writing this article, I also said I was an exciting position as well.

Quite simply, it is because I know there is incredible progress being made across the country for females in all sectors, and that there is tremendous opportunity ahead for women not just in our industry, but in all industries across Canada.