According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, the construction industry is comprised of only 11% women. But with a rapid projection of over 7.25 million new jobs in 2022, an increasing number of construction companies are looking to hire more women, and UVU stands ready to train and deliver.
Shalae Johnson, a senior student, and a woman looking to build a career as a Project Director or a Project Manager, says “Utah Valley University has a great construction management program that requires applicable classes as well as internships.” She says her favorite parts of the program have been the competitions, where her team has been able to place first. She especially felt like she benefited the most from her internship experience.
Another element of her UVU experience was being a part of the Women in Construction group. Soon to be an official club, Women in Construction looks to inspire female students with unique experiences and opportunities as they pursue careers in construction. Last year during the parade of homes, Women in Construction had the opportunity to visit The House That She Built. This home in Utah’s city of Saratoga Springs was the first-ever 100% all-women-built home. Several UVU Construction Technologies and BYU Construction Management students were able to have a private tour of the home and meet with some of the women who built it. Utah Valley’s President Tuminez also came to speak to the students as well.
Johnson continues, “I received great advice from an experienced woman in construction to learn as much as I can because whether I want to or not, I will stand out in a crowd of guys wherever I go, and people will remember the female in construction. This was a motivating moment to be competent. At first, it was intimidating to be the only woman surrounded by guys, but in time I have learned as a woman I have a different perspective that adds value to construction management, and I seek to gain the respect of my peers by learning and working hard to pursue my goal as a construction manager.”
UVU is proud to gain more women in its construction programs each year and excited to see the achievements and milestones they will reach in their future careers!
To learn more about Construction Technologies visit (https://www.uvu.edu/ct/cm/)