Women in Construction

By: Atlas Roofing

Breaking Barriers and Building the Future

March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the women shaping industries, pushing boundaries, and redefining success. In roofing and construction, women lead major projects, drive innovation, and bring expertise to job sites nationwide.

Women make up just 10.8% of the construction workforce, and in skilled trades, that number drops to 4.3%. Yet, despite these numbers, they continue to rise as more female professionals build businesses, manage complex developments, and mentor the next generation of tradeswomen. At Atlas Roofing, we celebrate those who built opportunities, the women shaping the industry today, and the organizations working to create a stronger, more inclusive workforce.

Women Who Shaped Construction

For generations, women have pushed past barriers in construction, proving that leadership, innovation, and expertise know no gender. Their contributions built the foundation for the industry we see today, one where more women are stepping into leadership roles and driving change. Here are some of the leaders who paved the way.

Emily Roebling (Active: 1872–1883)

When her husband, the chief engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge, fell ill, Emily Roebling stepped into a leadership role. She managed daily operations, worked directly with engineers, and oversaw construction until completion. Her expertise and leadership ensured the bridge's success and set a precedent for women in engineering and project management.

Louise B. Bethune (Active: 1876–1913)

As the first professional female architect in the U.S., Louise Blanchard Bethune refused to be limited by societal norms. She designed 18 public schools and multiple commercial buildings, proving that women belong in large-scale architecture. Her groundbreaking work earned her a historic membership in the Western Association of Architects, the first woman ever admitted.

Barbara Res (Active: 1970s–2000s)

Breaking barriers in construction leadership, at just 31, Barbara Res became one of the first women to oversee a major commercial construction project in New York City. Her leadership in a male-dominated industry helped open doors for more women to step into executive construction roles.

Elizabeth Diller (Active: 1980s–Present)

Transforming New York’s skyline and as the founding partner of Diller Scofidio + Renfro, Elizabeth Diller transformed an abandoned rail line into The High Line, one of New York’s most iconic public spaces. A professor of architecture at Princeton University, she continues to redefine urban landscapes and influence the next generation of designers.

How Organizations Are Elevating Women in Roofing

Women in construction aren’t working alone. These organizations provide the resources, training, and connections needed for success.

National Women in Roofing (NWIR)

Since 2016, NWIR has built a nationwide support system for women in roofing, focusing on mentorship, skill development, and industry advancement. Training programs, leadership opportunities, and networking events empower women to excel in every aspect of the roofing trade, from contracting to executive roles.

National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)

With over 115 chapters nationwide, NAWIC has been championing women in construction since 1955. It provides hands-on leadership training, career-building resources, and a strong professional network to help women break barriers and advance in all areas of the industry, from the job site to the boardroom.

Women of Atlas Roofing Corporation Leading the Way

Here at Atlas Roofing, we do more than talk about inclusion. We take action. Through the Women of Atlas Roofing Corporation (WARC), we provide networking opportunities, leadership development, and advocacy to ensure women in our industry have the opportunities, training, and support they need to succeed.

In articles like "Women in Roofing: Nailing Their Careers" and "Women in Roofing: Leading the Charge," we highlight how women across Atlas drive innovation, lead teams, and shape the industry’s future.

The Future is Built by Everyone

Every day, women push construction forward, leading projects, shaping skylines, and redefining what’s possible. Their impact strengthens the industry, fosters innovation, and inspires the next generation. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we recognize the trailblazers who built this foundation and the leaders who continue to elevate the field. At Atlas Roofing, we are proud to stand alongside them, championing diversity, inclusion, and excellence in roofing and construction.

When more voices are heard, and more hands are building, the future of construction looks stronger than ever.

Women in Construction

Women Who Shaped Construction

How Organizations Are Elevating Women in Roofing

National Women in Roofing (NWIR)

National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)

Women of Atlas Roofing Corporation Leading the Way

Women of Atlas Roofing Corporation Leading the Way

The Future is Built by Everyone

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