The construction industry in Canada has long been a male-dominated space. However, women are increasingly making their mark and reshaping the industry. According to the Canadian Association of Women in Construction, as of 2022, approximately 199,600 women were employed in Canada’s construction sector, representing about 14% of the total industry workforce. Notably, 27% of these women worked onsite. The majority held administrative and management roles. By 2023, this number rose to 221,900, reflecting a growing presence of women in construction.
Despite this progress, women only make up 5% of onsite tradespeople. This figure, while small, shows promise as new initiatives and cultural shifts encourage greater participation.
In a survey conducted online by CAWIC with 1,500 members of the Angus Reid, 69% of respondents agree that for the construction industry to thrive and grow, it needs a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce. The increasing involvement of women, both on-site and in leadership, is diversifying the workforce and driving innovation and excellence in construction.
Leading the Way: Canacon’s Co-Founder Tajana Petek
At Canacon Construction, co-founder and advocate for women in construction, Tajana exemplifies what it means to be a trailblazer in this evolving industry. The Canacon team has a deep passion for project management and client care. Leading this team, Tajana brings a unique perspective to construction, focusing on ensuring exceptional results and outstanding client experiences.
Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration and attention to detail while fostering an inclusive environment. Qualities that resonate with Canacon’s mission of delivering excellence at every project stage.
As a woman in a leadership role within construction, Tajana challenges stereotypes and creates opportunities for others to grow. Her commitment to empowering clients and team members is a testament to the value of diverse voices in the industry.
Looking at the Future
The construction industry has immense potential to thrive with increased diversity. With leaders like Tajana paving the way and the growing participation of women across all levels of the industry, the future of construction looks promising. At Canacon, we are proud to support and celebrate the contributions of women in construction. Together, we’re building more than just structures—we’re building a better and more diverse future.