Women in Construction: Breaking Barriers and Building Futures

Growing up in Lebanon’s patriarchal society, where women were rarely expected to reach leadership positions, I was shaped by my feminist father into a resilient individual, prepared for challenges in male-dominated industries.

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Architecture and construction shape our communities, yet women are still underrepresented. Although architecture became a recognized profession in 1857, women weren’t widely accepted into architecture schools until after 1960. The challenges women faced persist, regardless of location, and my own experience reflects some of that reality. From the start, I was determined to prove women belong not just as participants but as leaders. 

One defining moment came just eight months after graduating, when I managed a large-scale project. While my boss believed in me, some consultants doubted me, forcing me to constantly prove my worth. In my first decade, most of my female colleagues worked briefly before marriage or juggled family and work, with few reaching leadership positions. As I rose to managerial roles, I often found myself as one of the only women in the room, with few female role models.

A New Beginning in Canada: Hope and Challenges

Moving to Canada gave me hope for a more inclusive environment. Though the landscape was somewhat better, the challenges persisted. Although more women are now present on design teams, I found myself once again as one of the few women at the leader’s table, needing to prove myself both as an internationally trained architect and as a woman. That said, being a strong woman in this field can still be uncomfortable for some. I've encountered clients who were reluctant to work with a confident, assertive woman. These biases, though not surprising, can still sting. Construction sites, traditionally dominated by men, presented even more challenges.

I vividly remember the stares when I walked through my first jobsite in Canada. The women I encountered were often in administrative roles, and basic needs like women’s restrooms were often overlooked. Though some progress has been made, these accommodations are still not legally required, highlighting how much further we have to go.

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While obstacles persist, the past decade has seen encouraging developments. More women are entering trades like plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work—fields once considered exclusively for men. Yet, the imbalance persists. According toa 2023 report by Build Force Canada, women make up only 13% of the construction workforce, and even fewer hold managerial or supervisory roles. While 40-45% of architecture students in Canadian universities are women, only 31% of licensed architects in Canada are women, with a gender wage gap of 10-20%. 

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The Role of Firms Like Q4A: Setting the Standard

This is why firms like Q4 Architects are crucial. They are setting the standard for a more inclusive industry, being one of the largest women-owned firms in Canada, where over 50% of employees are women. Around 40% of these women are mothers, 52% are internationally trained professionals, 20% are licensed architects, and 24% are in management. At our studios, we embrace a supportive environment where women are encouraged to take on leadership roles, supported by mentorship, flexible hours, and a culture that celebrates equality. For us, equality isn’t just a goal, it’s embedded in our identity. 

Mentorship and support, both from women and our male allies, are the backbone of this progress. I’ve been fortunate to have a male mentor who believed in me and championed my growth, and I strive to pay it forward by supporting younger women. It’s through these networks of solidarity that we create lasting change. When one woman succeeds, it opens the door for others to follow, and firms like Q4A prove that inclusivity isn’t just possible, it’s powerful.

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I believe the next generation will see a brighter future.  Forget the noise surrounding the world at this time; it won't last. The work we do today, through mentorship, advocacy, and inclusive practices, will inspire young women to strive for more. Firms must actively promote women into managerial roles to make that happen. To my fellow women in architecture: thank you, and together, we will build a future where women are not the exception but the norm in this industry.  I am proud to be one of you.

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