29/09/2025
Despite employing more than 2.2 million people, the UK construction sector continues to face a striking imbalance: just 15% of its workforce is female, and only around 2% of women occupy hands-on trade roles like plumbing and electrical work.
Despite employing more than 2.2 million people, the UK construction sector continues to face a striking imbalance: just 15% of its workforce is female, and only around 2% of women occupy hands-on trade roles like plumbing and electrical work.
This is a pressing issue given the scale of upcoming demand. With over £700 billion pledged for infrastructure projects over the next decade, government plans for 1.5 million new homes by 2029, and a national labour shortage, tapping into underrepresented talent has never been more important.
To shine a light on this challenge, Excavator Parts Direct (EPD) has identified areas of construction where women are especially underrepresented, but where opportunities to help fill the workforce gap are significant.
| Position | % Female Workforce | Annual Recruitment Need | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter / Joiner | 0.5% | 5,280 | £35,000 |
| Electrician | 0.7% | 3,500 | £34,000 |
| Plumber | 1.8% | 1,250 | £32,000 |
| Roofer | 1.9% | 690 | £30,000 |
| Painter & Decorator | 7.7% | 690 | £30,000 |
| Plant Operator | 10.3% | 1,130 | £28,000 |
While more than a third (37%) of new entrants to construction are women, career progression remains limited. Women hold only 16% of senior roles, and the gender pay gap in construction is among the worst of any UK industry—women earn up to 33% less than men in the same positions.
This is especially concerning given forecasts. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates that by 2028, more than 250,000 additional workers will be needed across the UK to deliver on housing and infrastructure projects. Compounding the issue, 35% of the current workforce is over 50, meaning retirements are quickly outpacing recruitment.
Despite frequent conversations about diversity, ONS data shows that the number of women working in skilled construction trades has remained virtually unchanged for 20 years, stuck at around 298,000.
Jane McGuire Head of Business Services & HR at EPD, commented:
“Construction is an exciting and rewarding sector, but female representation is still far too low. This isn’t just a matter of equality—it’s a business-critical issue. Skilled trades are facing serious shortages, and the lack of women in these roles is a missed opportunity for the whole industry.
“Women make up over a third of new starters, yet very few progress into senior or skilled manual roles. To close that gap, we need inclusive apprenticeships, better PPE and working conditions, flexible policies, and visible female role models. When women can see themselves represented and are supported to succeed, the industry as a whole becomes stronger and more resilient.”
Contact our helpful sales team today.
