Shawmut Design and Construction Advances Vital Role of Women Leadership in Construction

Shawmut Design and Construction recently hosted impactful programming for Women in Construction Week, held March 3-9. The firm’s WIC Week activities were curated to align with this year’s theme: celebrating the strength and knowledge of women and their vital role in shaping the future of the construction industry.

This year marks Shawmut’s ninth year participating in the national celebration, which recognizes the accomplishments and leadership of women in construction. Throughout the week, Shawmut employee-owners nationwide engaged in open and honest discussions about how the industry can increase female representation, celebrated the progress that has been made and hosted panel discussions, roundtables, jobsite tours and more.

While WIC Week provides a platform and opportunity for the industry to come together, Shawmut is committed year-round to the advancement and diversity of its workforce, which is comprised of 33% women (compared to the 10% construction industry average), with 20% in senior roles. And the future is looking more equitable, as Shawmut’s Construction Management Skills Training program for recent college grads is comprised of 30% women.

“Women in Construction Week isn’t just about celebrating the incredible women already shaping our industry — it’s about recognizing their critical role in building a strong, equitable and sustainable future for construction,” said Les Hiscoe, CEO of Shawmut.

Highlights from the week included the virtual opening ceremony with AGC of Massachusetts featuring a panel discussion with women from across the AEC industry; a roundtable discussion with Shawmut chair of the board Kim Bishop, board member Liyuan Woo and chief people and administration officer Marianne Monte; and tours of projects with women leaders in New York, California and Massachusetts.

In addition, the firm highlighted the impressive work that the women at Shawmut are doing; launched new virtual micro-learnings on various topics, including reducing bias in the workplace, allyship, equity and inclusivity and partnered with Prudential Financial to host a webinar to provide retirement strategies geared toward women.