Factors that affect career growth of women in the construction industry in South Africa

the change in South Africa, post the apartheid regime when the labour laws were amended and the law of equality instilled, women are still under-represented in the construction industry of South Africa, particularly in senior management positions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors affecting the career growth of female engineers in the construction industry of South Africa. The study was guided by the following objectives: to investigate if education influences women’s career advancement in the construction industry of South Africa, to establish the extent to which gender negatively impacts women’s career advancement in the construction industry of South Africa, to determine the rate at which women are promoted to senior leadership positions in the construction industry of South Africa, and to establish the extent to which the construction industry of South Africa goes to retain women within the industry. According to the study's findings, women in South Africa's construction industry have prospered from their qualifications (education). They stated that their education influenced their career path. The respondents believe that their gender does not prevent them from pursuing management positions. Women's retention in the construction industry is gradually improving. It was suggested that women be allowed more liberty in leadership roles so that they can perform to their full potential. Flexible working hours must be made available to women in order for them to be able to manage job and family obligations. This is not to say that women aren't capable; rather, it's a means of inspiring and recognising that, just as they are in the office, they are also leaders at home.Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 202