The “last place where we can be men”: understanding women's marginalisation in the construction industry through a community of practice lens

Purpose This study examines how social practices within Communities of Practice (CoP) in the Australian construction industry sustain gender biases. It investigates how masculinity is performed and learned on worksites and how these norms shape women's participation and identity. The purpose is to identify the social practices that reinforce exclusion, assess whether these practices are changing and identify opportunities to accelerate progress toward more gender-inclusive worksites. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative methodology was employed, using interviews with men in the Australian construction industry to explore their perceptions of women and gender roles. Findings were considered using a social practice lens to understand how masculinities are learned, performed and reinforced within CoPs. Findings The findings reveal that women often adopt masculine traits to gain acceptance, yet full participation in CoP remains elusive for those who do not conform. While gender quotas and training programs have prompted some change, progress is inconsistent. Innovations in work design and evolving attitudes suggest movement toward inclusion, but entrenched biases remain. Practical implications The research identifies that efforts to improve gender inclusion in construction must address informal workplace practices. Lasting cultural transformation requires attention to how masculinities and femininities are negotiated within everyday practices. Practical interventions should focus on transforming how masculinities are enacted and valued in daily interactions. Originality/value By using a CoP lens, this study offers a different perspective on the maintenance of gender bias and identifies where interventions can be most effective in shifting workplace norms and supporting women in construction.