Breaking Barriers and Building Futures: A Conversation on Women in Construction and the NAWIC/LCI Partnership

By Kelly Aust of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)

The construction industry has long been a male-dominated field, but that reality is changing. As women continue to make their mark, organizations like the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) play a crucial role in fostering growth, support, and opportunity. I’m honored to serve as NAWIC’s National President, and I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts on the challenges and successes of women in our industry, as well as the exciting possibilities ahead through our partnership with the Lean Construction Institute (LCI).

Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career has been proving my credibility in an industry where women are still underrepresented. Early on, I found myself having to repeatedly demonstrate my technical knowledge and leadership skills to earn the same level of respect automatically given to my male counterparts. Overcoming this required persistence, confidence, and finding allies—both men and women—who valued my contributions and helped advocate for my voice to be heard.

Another challenge has been balancing authenticity with industry norms. There’s sometimes an unspoken pressure to “fit in” by mirroring the communication or leadership styles of those who came before us. I’ve learned that success comes from leaning into my strengths, being direct yet collaborative, and focusing on results rather than perceptions.

Key Factors for Success & Lessons for Future Generations

Success in construction—regardless of gender—requires technical competence, strong relationships, and adaptability. For young women entering the field, I’d offer three key lessons:

1. Know your craft. Expertise builds confidence, and confidence commands respect. Invest in your education and stay curious.
2. Build your network. Find mentors, join organizations like NAWIC, and seek out industry peers who can provide guidance and support.
3. Own your seat at the table. Your perspective is valuable. Speak up, advocate for yourself, and don’t be afraid to take on leadership roles.

Empowering Women Through NAWIC

As NAWIC President, one of my top priorities is ensuring that women not only have a place in construction but thrive in it. Our initiatives focus on professional development, mentorship, and advocacy. Some of our most impactful efforts include:

• Expanding leadership training opportunities to help women advance in their careers.
• Strengthening industry partnerships to create new avenues for collaboration and professional growth.
• Amplifying our voice in workforce development to attract more women to construction and advocate for equitable workplaces.

The Evolving Landscape for Women in Construction

While we’ve made significant progress, there’s still work to do. Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of diversity, and we’re seeing more women in leadership roles. However, challenges like unconscious bias, lack of childcare support, and unequal advancement opportunities remain. To continue this momentum, we need:

• More targeted recruitment efforts to bring women into the industry early.
• Stronger retention strategies like mentorship programs and leadership development.
• Industry-wide culture shifts that move beyond diversity quotas to true inclusivity.

The Impact of the NAWIC/LCI Partnership

Our partnership with LCI is an exciting step toward shaping the future of construction. Lean practices emphasize collaboration, efficiency, and continuous improvement—values that align with NAWIC’s mission. Through this partnership, we can:

• Provide women with greater access to Lean training and education, equipping them with skills that set them apart in the industry.
• Foster inclusive project environments where diverse voices are heard and valued.
• Bridge the gap between Lean principles and workforce development, ensuring that women are positioned as key players in the industry’s evolution.

Together, we rise. By strengthening partnerships, advocating for inclusivity, and preparing the next generation of women leaders, we’re not just building careers—we’re building the future of construction.

About the Author

Kelly Aust is the National President of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and a Project Manager at Skanska. With over a decade of experience in the construction industry, she is passionate about advancing opportunities for women in the field and fostering industry-wide collaboration. Kelly is dedicated to leadership development, mentorship, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the construction workforce.