In a notable move to address the gender disparity in the construction industry, the Massachusetts Associated General Contractors (AGC) have initiated a mentorship program called Build Her Mentorship. The program, which commenced in September and will run until June of the following year, aims to provide much-needed support and professional growth opportunities for women in this predominantly male-dominated field. The initiative pairs 30 women based on shared experiences, including being women of color or members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Addressing Gender Disparity in Construction
Launch of the Build Her Mentorship Program
The Build Her Mentorship program, launched by AGC Massachusetts, is an ambitious effort to bridge the gender gap in the construction industry by fostering mentorship among women. The program pairs 30 women, taking into consideration their shared experiences and backgrounds to ensure a meaningful and supportive relationship. This initiative has been meticulously structured to include initial meetings between mentors and mentees, followed by a workshop designed to provide them with essential tools and resources necessary for their careers.
Scheduled check-ins throughout the mentorship period ensure ongoing effectiveness and engagement. The aim is not only to offer guidance but also to create a sustainable support network that encourages professional development. The program seeks to bolster the confidence of women in the construction sector, providing them with a platform where they can freely discuss challenges, share experiences, and receive valuable advice from seasoned professionals. This initiative comes as a much-needed intervention to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment in a field that has historically been male-dominated.
Importance of Inclusive Pairing and Workshops
The program’s pairing strategy is crucial to its success. By matching mentees with mentors who share similar backgrounds and experiences, the initiative ensures relatability and understanding. The inclusion of women of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community underscores the program’s commitment to diversity. This inclusive approach not only addresses the professional challenges faced by women in construction but also acknowledges and respects their unique personal experiences.
Workshops planned as part of the program are another key component. These workshops aim to equip participants with practical skills and knowledge tailored to the construction industry. In addition to technical expertise, the workshops focus on soft skills like communication, leadership, and networking, which are vital for professional growth. Participants are encouraged to engage actively, share their insights, and learn from each other’s experiences. This holistic approach ensures that the mentees are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the construction industry.
Leadership and Vision Behind the Program
Role of Lisa Frisbie and the Building Women in Construction Committee
Lisa Frisbie, vice president of member services for AGC Massachusetts, played a pivotal role in the creation and launch of the Build Her Mentorship program. After noticing the glaring gender imbalance at industry events and the lack of support networks for women, Frisbie spearheaded this initiative. With over a decade of experience organizing education, outreach, and resources through the chapter’s Building Women in Construction Committee, she was well-positioned to understand the unique challenges faced by women in this field.
The Building Women in Construction Committee has been instrumental in laying the groundwork for the mentorship program. Their long-standing efforts in providing educational resources and fostering inclusivity have created a foundation that supports the new initiative. By transitioning from a committee-focused approach to a direct mentorship model, the AGC aims to offer more personalized and impactful support to women in construction. This shift marks a significant step towards creating a more inclusive industry.
Early Impacts and Testimonials from Participants
Even in its early stages, the Build Her Mentorship program has already shown promising results. Mentors and mentees alike have reported significant changes in their professional lives. Kimberly Joyce, a senior project manager with decades of experience, observed a noticeable shift in attitudes towards women in construction. She noted that the industry has become far more inclusive compared to the past, providing women with more opportunities to excel and lead.
Rita Donayre Iturri, a mentee and founder of General Professional Services, shared her positive experience with the program. She found the mentorship invaluable for integrating diverse cultural and professional methods into her work. By receiving guidance from her mentor, Iturri was able to navigate complex challenges and develop innovative solutions, enhancing her professional capabilities. These testimonials underscore the program’s potential to make a lasting impact on the participants’ careers.
Future of Women in Construction
Building Confidence and Professional Growth
The Build Her Mentorship program aims to not just support women but also to build their confidence and foster professional growth. By creating a strong network of female professionals, the program provides a platform for women to share their experiences and learn from each other’s successes and challenges. This sense of community is crucial for building resilience and adaptability in a demanding industry.
Participants are encouraged to set professional goals and work towards achieving them with the support of their mentors. This goal-oriented approach ensures that the mentorship is productive and results-oriented. By focusing on both short-term achievements and long-term career aspirations, the program helps women in construction build a solid foundation for their future success. The emphasis on continuous learning and development is expected to result in a more skilled and confident workforce.
Long-Term Vision for an Inclusive Construction Industry
In a significant step toward tackling the gender inequality prevalent in the construction industry, the Massachusetts Associated General Contractors (AGC) launched the Build Her Mentorship program. This initiative, which began in September and will continue until June of the following year, is designed to offer essential support and avenues for professional development to women working in this overwhelmingly male-dominated sector. By linking 30 women based on their shared experiences, such as being women of color or identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community, the program aims to foster an inclusive environment. This mentorship effort not only bridges gaps but also encourages diversity and empowerment, highlighting the untapped potential and talent of women in construction. Through this initiative, AGC demonstrates not only a commitment to improving gender balance but also to nurturing a more inclusive and diverse workforce, setting a precedent for other industries to follow. The Build Her Mentorship program stands as a beacon of progress, paving the way for transformative changes within the construction field.
