The future is built by all: unearthing barriers to women’s career progression and retention in the construction industry

The construction industry remains fragmented and male-dominated, with research often overlooking women’s contributions and the dynamics of workplace culture. This study critically examines the challenges and opportunities surrounding female participation in the sector. Using a quantitative design, purposive sampling targeted experienced female construction professionals, yielding 102 valid responses. Data were analysed through descriptive statistics, mean ranking, exploratory factor analysis, and Fuzzy Synthetic Evaluation (FSE). Findings reveal systemic challenges, including entrenched gender stereotypes, inadequate mentorship, and exclusionary workplace policies that perpetuate underrepresentation. The FSE further identified three dominant barriers: safety, representation, and discrimination; job security and physical health; and work–life balance and family support. Specific issues such as limited networking opportunities and poor childcare provision compound these constraints. Despite these barriers, women continue to influence organisational practices, highlighting opportunities for innovation, inclusive leadership, and sectoral transformation. This research uniquely investigates the barriers that hinder women’s career growth and retention in Ghana’s construction sector, offering an empirical perspective that extends beyond general participation to long-term advancement and inclusion. Thus, shaping their long-term inclusion, advancement, and leadership within the construction industry. The research also proposes a framework illustrating the barriers, analytical process, and strategic interventions for women’s inclusion in the construction industry. The study calls for targeted interventions, fostering inclusive workplace cultures, institutionalising mentorship, advancing gender-responsive policies on work–life balance, safety, and career progression. These findings underscore the need for industry stakeholders and policymakers to reposition construction as an equitable and attractive career path for women. By offering practical recommendations, the study advances debates on gender equality and provides a foundation for reforms in male-dominated industries.