Mediating Effect of Construction Industry Development on Workforce Diversity and Technology Adoption: Evidence from Iraq

Infrastructure projects in Iraq encounter multiple challenges, including inefficient workforce diversity (WD) management, shortages in technical skills, and technological gaps, which can directly affect productivity and project success. Under such circumstances, examining the way WD influences technology adoption (TA) and the mediating role of construction industry development (CID) becomes particularly noticeable. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate these relationships and provide practical insights into improving project performance. Using an exploratory mixed-method approach, qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with industry experts and then analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings of this stage revealed that the cultural, linguistic, and professional dimensions of CID can simultaneously present opportunities for innovation and challenges for coordination and management. In the quantitative phase, structural equation modeling was employed to test the research hypotheses. The results confirmed that CID strengthens the relationship between WD and TA, suggesting that this mediating variable can provide a platform for improving diversity management and facilitating TA. Accordingly, policymakers and project managers must adopt comprehensive strategies to enhance workforce capabilities and institutional infrastructure, thereby promoting productivity and sustainability in infrastructure projects.