Breaking the concrete wall: The untapped potential of technology to increase the participation of women in the construction industry

Research on gender disparities in the construction industry has traditionally overlooked the role of technology in empowering women. This study aims to fill this gap by setting two key objectives: firstly, to outline the job roles of women in construction and their associated challenges, and secondly, to pinpoint areas where technology can address the challenges to increase female participation within those job roles. Through a systematic literature review and a task-based taxonomy, the study identifies two primary job roles for women: on-site roles encompassing tradeswomen and on-site professionals/managers, and off-site roles comprising managers/CEOs, administrative/clerical staff, and office professionals. To address the second objective, the study identifies 29 construction 4.0 technologies from existing literature, presenting them within a framework that categorises these technologies into digital layers, digital tools, and physical layers. By doing so, the research highlights specific technologies that could alleviate the challenges faced by women in both on-site and off-site job roles. Practical implications of this research lie in its potential to inform future interventions aimed at narrowing gender disparities in the construction industry. By identifying specific technologies that can facilitate women's participation and advancement in the field, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and organisations can develop targeted strategies to enhance inclusivity and diversity within the sector. Theoretical implications of this study extend to the broader discourse on gender, technology, and employment. By shedding light on the synergies between technology adoption and gender equity in a traditionally male-dominated industry, this research contributes to theoretical frameworks exploring the intersection of gender, technology, and labour market dynamics. Moreover, it underscores the importance of considering gender perspectives in technology design and implementation to foster more inclusive work environments across industries.