Why Diversity and Inclusion are Important to the Construction Industry
The conversation around diversity and inclusion has moved well beyond box-ticking or corporate buzzwords. In the modern construction industry, it has become a genuine business, workforce, and sustainability issue. The sector faces ongoing skills shortages, an ageing workforce, and rising expectations around workplace culture. All of this means that understanding why diversity and inclusion are important to the construction industry has never been more relevant.
Here, we take a look into the current state of diversity and inclusion in the construction sector, and discuss its benefits. We’ll also be showcasing how we’re working to champion these values, and looking at how to improve diversity in construction by fostering inclusive principles.
The Current State of Diversity and Inclusion in Construction
Despite some progress, the construction sector still struggles with representation. Women currently make up around 15% of the UK construction workforce, with far fewer in senior leadership roles. Representation among Black, Asian and minority ethnic workers also remains disproportionately low, particularly in management and decision-making positions.
Research highlights that barriers often appear long before individuals even enter the industry. When surveyed by Construction Manager Magazine, 73% of Black, Asian and minority ethnic students believed they would face discrimination in construction roles. That concern is reinforced by reports showing that over half of UK construction workers have heard racist language used on site within the last year.
Women face similarly entrenched challenges.
Limited visibility of role models, unclear progression routes, and workplace cultures that tolerate exclusion or disrespect continue to discourage long-term participation. These realities underline why diversity and inclusion are important to the construction industry, not only as a moral responsibility but as a practical necessity.
While some organisations are making genuine efforts to build inclusive environments, others remain unsure where to begin. Biases, outdated attitudes, and a lack of awareness often slow progress. Yet as labour shortages deepen, the cost of inaction becomes increasingly clear.
Why Diversity Matters in the Construction Industry
The benefits of diversity and inclusion aren’t limited to representation. At a practical level, opening doors to a broader range of people helps address skills shortages by expanding the available talent pool. When organisations limit recruitment to traditional pathways, they also limit potential.
There is also a strong performance case. Studies consistently show that inclusive workplaces see higher engagement, stronger retention, and improved productivity. Research by McKinsey & Co. found that organisations with higher racial and ethnic diversity were significantly more likely to outperform industry averages financially.
Diverse teams also bring different ways of thinking.
Construction projects demand problem-solving, adaptability, and collaboration. When people with varied backgrounds and perspectives work together, they challenge assumptions, spot risks earlier, and develop more innovative solutions. This is a key reason why diversity matters in the construction industry from a commercial and operational standpoint.
How to Improve Diversity in Construction
Improving diversity needs intention, consistency, and leadership. There is no single solution; meaningful progress starts with commitment across the organisation.
Develop a Clear Strategy
A clear diversity and inclusion strategy provides direction and accountability. This includes setting realistic goals, measuring progress, and embedding inclusion into everyday decision-making rather than treating it as a separate initiative.
Training & Education
Training also plays an important role. Education around unconscious bias, inclusive communication, and cultural awareness helps teams recognise behaviours that may otherwise go unchallenged. When people understand the impact of their actions, change becomes more achievable.
Promote Inclusive Leadership
Leadership is critical. Inclusive leaders create environments where people feel heard and respected. They actively encourage diverse viewpoints and ensure that opportunities are shared fairly. Without visible commitment from the top, efforts to address how the construction industry can improve its diversity often lose momentum.
How the Construction Industry Can Improve on Inclusion and Diversity Through Recruitment
Recruitment remains one of the most effective levers for change. To understand how the construction industry can improve on inclusion and diversity, organisations must look closely at how roles are advertised, assessed, and filled.
Inclusive job descriptions avoid gender-coded language and make it clear that diverse applicants are encouraged. Advertising roles through a wider range of channels also helps reach talent that may otherwise be overlooked.
Selection processes should focus on fairness and consistency. Structured interviews, clear assessment criteria, and diverse interview panels reduce the risk of bias and improve decision-making.
Once people join, support matters. Mentoring and sponsorship schemes help underrepresented employees navigate career progression, build confidence, and remain engaged long term. Without this support, recruitment gains can quickly be lost.
Building Inclusive Futures with ITS: Building People
Creating a more inclusive construction industry requires partnership and long-term commitment. ITS: Building People has been working within the representative recruitment sector since 1973, supporting contractors, developers, and subcontractors across the built environment.
With a strong focus on fair access, representation, and responsible recruitment, we’ve continued to champion positive change across the industry. To learn more about our diversity and inclusion pledges, or to discuss how inclusive recruitment can strengthen your workforce, get in touch for a conversation.
FAQs
Why are diversity and inclusion important to the construction industry?
Diversity and inclusion help the construction industry tackle skills shortages, improve performance, and create workplaces where people feel valued and supported. Inclusive teams are more engaged, productive, and innovative.
How can companies take practical steps to improve diversity?
Clear strategies, inclusive recruitment practices, leadership commitment, and ongoing training are all essential. Progress comes from embedding inclusion into everyday business decisions, not treating it as a side project.
Why does diversity matter in the construction industry beyond ethics?
Beyond fairness, diversity brings broader perspectives, better problem-solving, and stronger business performance. Diverse teams are proven to adapt faster and deliver better outcomes.
How the construction industry can improve it’s diversity long term?
Sustainable improvement relies on changing workplace culture, supporting career progression, and ensuring inclusion is maintained at every stage of employment, from recruitment through to leadership.
