Empowering Women in Construction

Women only make up about 11% of the construction industry workforce, and only 1 for every 100 employees in the field. At Swinerton, women make up 16% of our total workforce and 2.8% of craft employees. While the construction industry has a ways to go in attracting and retaining diverse talent, progress is being made.  The number of women in construction has steadily increased by 53% in the last decade.

Swinerton is proud of its employee-owners who are fostering a culturally inclusive environment where all feel safe, respected, and able to thrive. With a strong support system and room for career growth, Swinerton is proud to not only have women in leadership roles all across the nation, but also to provide opportunities for women to shake up our business and help the industry make progress through our Women’s Business Resource Group (WBRG) and other opportunities for impact.

For Women in Construction Week 2023, we are highlighting women who are making strides—from the field to the office to the community at large—leading, mentoring, encouraging, educating, and empowering the next generation of women in construction.

Sarah Hargrave-Thomas, Assistant Superintendent 

What do people say when you tell them you work in construction?

The typical response when I say I work in construction is, “that’s really cool” or “that’s badass.”  There’s always a follow up question, “how did you get into construction?”  Then, I explain my surprising path that led to me finding a career I am passionate about.

What do you like best about being in the construction industry?

The construction industry is a really exciting industry to be a part of.  It is fantastic to build a project that you can be proud of for years to come, but I also enjoy and admire other projects I see in my city!  When I drive through downtown Atlanta and see jobsite after jobsite, with tower cranes going up, it’s very exciting!  It’s obviously more exciting when Swinerton’s name is on the fence wrap.  However, you feel like you’re a part of a community, and I really enjoy being a part of it.

How does more diversity on a construction jobsite help teams solve problems better?

There is so much to learn from the individuals you work with.  Having a diverse environment and levels of experience, I think, allows teams to effectively collaborate and learn from each other.

Why did you choose Swinerton?

Similar to the projects I like to build, I was excited to join Atlanta’s growing division, and to be part of its growth from the ground up.

What do you enjoy about your job?

I enjoy the never-ending opportunities to learn and develop myself professionally.  I also enjoy building relationships with people I get to work with like subcontractors, owners, architects, and engineers. The obstacles you face together are what add to your experience and make your journey memorable.

What is your advice to women looking start a career in construction?

My advice will always be “take what you want, leave what you don’t.”  I’m not sure this is specific to construction, it’s kind of just life in general. But you will meet many individuals in your career and you get choose what shapes you and your career goals.  You will learn from others, and if there are any qualities you don’t care to pick up, that’s okay. I think that is important to remember that you do not have to fit into a mold, you offer something unique that you bring to the table.