WOMEN'S PARTICIPATION IN CIVIL ENGINEERING: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

María A. Mena; Ximena Ferrada; Claudia Valderrama-Ulloa; Felipe Herrera

Abstract:

The participation of women in civil engineering, particularly in the construction industry, remains lower than that of their male counterparts, especially in leadership and decision-making roles. Despite regulatory advances and gender equity initiatives, structural barriers persist, limiting their professional development and retention in the sector. The literature suggests that these challenges cannot be attributed solely to individual factors but rather stem from a complex interaction of institutional, organizational, and sociocultural conditions that restrict access to growth opportunities. This study conducts a systematic literature review to identify the factors affecting the retention and professional development of women in construction. Rather than merely listing these barriers, the research adopts a holistic approach to uncover the underlying causes of these limitations and their implications for equity in the sector. The findings indicate that low female representation results from structural and contextual factors. Among the most significant are organizational culture with gender biases, the limited presence of female role models, occupational segregation, the lack of mentoring programs and support networks, and the incompatibility between work demands and caregiving responsibilities. Additionally, adverse effects on women's mental health and well-being are evident due to hostile work environments and excessive demands. Based on these findings, general solutions are proposed to mitigate these barriers and promote a more equitable environment. Furthermore, research gaps are identified, emphasizing the need for studies that delve deeper into organizational dynamics, the impact of inclusion policies, and the effectiveness of retention and female leadership strategies in the construction industry.