How to Empower Women in Traditionally Male-Dominated Workplaces

Construction, engineering, manufacturing, and logistics are traditionally male-dominated industries where the path to women equality and empowerment is fraught with unique challenges.

Despite these obstacles, many women continue to thrive in these sectors – setting new standards for workplace culture and leadership.

Common Challenges in Male-Dominated Industries

Under-representation

Women often find themselves vastly outnumbered in male-dominated fields.

This under-representation can lead to isolation and a lack of support networks within the workplace, making it difficult for women to find mentors and allies.

Stereotyping and Bias

Gender stereotypes can lead to biases in hiring and promotion processes.

Women may be overlooked for leadership roles or high-profile projects based on assumptions about their capabilities or commitment, particularly if they are also balancing family responsibilities.

Wage Disparity

Despite advances in workplace equality, a significant gender pay gap remains in many male-dominated industries.

Women often earn less than their male counterparts for similar roles and responsibilities, which can affect morale and long-term career investment.

In fact, in Australia, the WGEA total remuneration average gender pay gap is 21.8%. 

This means for every $1 on average a man makes, women earn 78c. 

Over the course of a year, that difference adds up to $28,425.

Workplace Culture and Harassment

A male-dominated workplace culture can sometimes create or perpetuate an environment that feels unwelcoming or even hostile to women.

This may include everything from “locker room talk” to more overt forms of harassment, making it uncomfortable or unsafe for women.

Lack of Role Models

The scarcity of women in senior or visible roles can deter aspiring female professionals from pursuing or persisting in these careers.

Without visible role models, women may struggle to envision their path to success and may feel more uncertain about their professional growth.

How to Thrive and Succeed in a Male-Dominated Industry

Build Professional Networks

Creating a robust network of contacts within and outside the organisation can provide crucial support, open up opportunities, and offer mentorship.

Engaging in professional women’s networks can also provide empowerment and shared resources.

Professional groups like Women & Leadership Australia or Brisbane Women’s Club provide events and resources to help women thrive in the workplace.

Seek Mentorship and Sponsorship

Finding mentors who can provide guidance, feedback, and support is invaluable.

Sponsorship from higher-ups can also propel one’s career forward by opening doors to high-profile projects and promotions.

Advocate for Equal Pay

Women should feel empowered to negotiate their salaries and advocate for pay equity.

Conducting salary research and arming oneself with industry-specific wage data can support negotiations.

Foster an Inclusive Culture

Participating in or initiating diversity and inclusion programs can help shift workplace culture to be more welcoming and equitable.

These programs can educate peers and promote practices that support diversity.

Continuous Skill Development

Investing in one’s professional development by staying updated with industry trends and enhancing skills can make one indispensable and demonstrate a commitment to one’s role and the industry at large.

Develop Resilience and Assertiveness

Building resilience to handle setbacks and cultivating assertiveness to express ideas confidently and address biases directly are crucial skills that can greatly aid women in navigating male-dominated fields.

How Barclay Recruitment Can Help

Empowering women in male-dominated workplaces requires addressing specific challenges and leveraging targeted strategies for success.

At Barclay Recruitment, we understand the importance of diversity and empowerment in the workplace.

We are dedicated to supporting this journey by helping to create workplaces where every talented individual can excel and lead.

Looking for top talent or seeking your next career move? Connect with us today or contact our team and let’s get the conversation started!

#BarclayRecruitment #Barclay #Recruitment #WomenEmpowerment #WomenLeadership #WomenLeaders #InternationalWomensMonth #Construction #Engineering #Manufacturing #Logistics #Transport #JobSeekers #Candidates #GoBeyond

Barclay Recruitment – Go Beyond – A Verity Company © 2025. All rights reserved.
B Series Recruitment Pty Ltd | ABN 30 101 076 975