Qualitative Analysis of Perceived Benefits by Professionals of Female Participation in Construction Projects

Abstract

The construction industry is characterized as a highly male-dominated sector, both nationally and internationally, where female participation remains scarce, generating dynamics of occupational segregation. Available literature has focused primarily on the barriers and challenges women face in this field, overlooking the positive effects of their participation, which have been scarcely studied, particularly in the Latin American context. This study aimed to analyze, from a qualitative perspective, the benefits perceived by industry professionals regarding female participation in construction projects in Chile. To this end, 11 semi-structured interviews were conducted with professionals of both genders, exploring their perceptions and experiences related to such participation. The results reveal a predominantly positive perception of women's involvement in the industry, highlighting that women improve the work environment and are perceived as contributors in terms of order, organization, responsibility, and attention to detail. Conversely, physical strength was identified as a limiting factor for high-demand fieldwork, and interpersonal relationships among women were described as conflictive. Due to the exploratory nature of the study, the findings are not representative of the industry as a whole. Nevertheless, the results shed light on concrete benefits of female participation and may serve as a basis for decisions and initiatives by companies, public agencies, and academia.