International Women’s Day will be celebrated this Sunday and Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) is taking the opportunity to recognise and celebrate women working in the building and construction industry.

ABS figures from November 2014 show female workers accounted for 11.7% (26,400 workers) of a 225,900 strong workforce.

CSQ CEO Brett Schimming said women are being welcomed to all facets of the industry including trade and management positions, and expects their involvement in the industry will continue to grow.

“Industry-wide, and certainly at CSQ, we celebrate diversity and are fortunate to have passionate women who are encouraging more women to join them in construction,” Mr Schimming said.

“We support events like the annual Sunshine Coast Try’a Trade event which is designed so young women can get hands on experience of different trades in an all-female environment. We’ve had young women kick-start new careers and sign up for apprenticeships following these events.”

“Each year CSQ also recognises a Construction Female of the Year to help profile women who are doing great things in the industry. We know role models are an important influencer for women who are considering a building and construction career,” he said.

One woman setting an outstanding example is Contract Administrator Sandra Troughton, winner of the Construction Female of the Year at the 2014 CSQ Excellence Awards.

“One of the best things about the building and construction industry is that it offers work both on the tools and in the office.This flexibilty is especially important to women with family commitments,” Ms Troughton said.

“I’d encourage all women to take a look at careers in the building and construction industry. There are so many opportunities!,” she said.

For more information visit www.csq.org.au or contact the CSQ team on 1800 798 488.