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Much like their counterparts in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), women in construction face many challenges, from gender stereotypes to a lack of visible female role models and feelings of not belonging. Despite these challenges, women in the field contribute invaluable skills and perspectives that enhance the industry’s impact.

Recognizing the barriers that obstruct women’s entry and advancement in construction, PCL Construction is taking action to make a difference. Through a partnership with �Ӱ�ԭ�� University, the company is investing in a future talent pool and workforce within the industry that is representative and inclusive.

“We recognize that construction is not always considered a viable career choice for women. Our hope is to break down barriers and instill confidence in women students to pursue STEM, and view the construction industry as a welcoming place to work,” said Paul Knowles, Vice-President and Ottawa District Manager, PCL Construction.

As a steadfast co-op employer, PCL partnered with �Ӱ�ԭ�� to accomplish this goal. Committed to building an equitable, diverse and inclusive campus that enriches student experiences and fosters success, �Ӱ�ԭ�� welcomes collaborations with corporate partners to advance shared values.

Having understood PCL’s need to dismantle barriers impeding women’s progress in construction while offering opportunities to engage with in-demand talent, �Ӱ�ԭ�� crafted the Building Futures Program.

Enacting Meaningful Change Through Industry-academia Collaboration

Through the Building Futures Program, PCL invested in Virtual Ventures, a non-profit that offers nationally recognized STEM programming for youth; the Women in Engineering & IT (WiE&IT) Program, an initiative that supports women students to increase their recruitment and retention in STEM; and established an endowed scholarship for women entering the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at �Ӱ�ԭ��.

Through these investments, PCL is laying the groundwork for lasting impact. First, Virtual Ventures sparks girls’ curiosity in STEM, to help prepare them to break down any barriers caused by gender bias. Second, the entrance scholarship encourages recruitment and retention, and provides support for girls who later choose to pursue post-secondary STEM education. Third, PCL continues to encourage �Ӱ�ԭ��’s women students to consider careers in STEM through the WiE&IT Program.

For Rhea Wilson, second-year Building Engineering Ph.D. student and dedicated advocate for women in engineering, this support is invaluable.

“As a Graduate Assistant in the Women in Engineering & IT Study Lounge, I get to see the positive impact supporters of the program have on women students. Their support allows program participants to connect with peers, network with future employers, learn from mentors and gain a safe space.”

Enhancing Employee Engagement Through Collaboration

While philanthropic and sponsorship investments through �Ӱ�ԭ�� contribute to transformative change – having a positive impact on students and the wider community – they also are mutually beneficial to fostering a sense of pride, meaning and purpose for employees in their workplace. Employees value knowing that their employer is committed to creating meaningful change.

“Collaborations like this are vital to drive progressive change and ensure that future generations of women in STEM continue to explore career pathways in the construction industry. I am proud to work for a company focused on eliminating barriers for young women passionate about STEM, providing them with the space to build a meaningful career.”

As voices from industry and academia emphasize the importance of breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity, it becomes evident that collaborative efforts are pivotal in advancing a more equitable future in STEM-related fields. This sentiment is echoed by Cynthia Cruickshank, Professor and Associate Dean of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at �Ӱ�ԭ��’s Faculty of Engineering and Design.

If you’re seeking a customized approach to advance corporate social responsibility goals while making a meaningful impact on �Ӱ�ԭ�� students and your future workforce through sponsorship and philanthropy, get in touch with Robin McLaughlin, Senior Corporate Relations Officer, at Robin.McLaughlin@�Ӱ�ԭ��.ca.