Exploring and comparing gendered experiences in Construction Management Education in Ireland

Despite efforts by Irish governments and construction industries, women are still distinctly underrepresented in 3rd level construction management courses in Ireland. This study investigates the age-old barriers and challenges faced by women in pursuing careers in construction management, focusing on gender stereotypes, the industry's image, access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) education, and the role of career guidance. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combines a literature review with semi-structured interviews conducted with eight students from Technological University Dublin. The findings reveal that gender stereotypes remain pervasive, with female students facing challenges such as lack of female role models, isolation in male-dominated environments, and insufficient guidance in school. Key motivations for choosing construction management include financial prospects and job security, with family influences playing a stronger role for female students. The research also highlights a lack of exposure to construction-related subjects in secondary education, particularly for female students, which limits their engagement with the industry. This research contributes valuable insights into the gender dynamics in construction management education and highlights areas for future policy and industry development.