The construction industry faces a looming challenge: a shrinking workforce and a persistent underrepresentation of women. While initiatives like "Build Like a Girl" offer a glimpse of hope, the path towards a more inclusive future is complex.

Jenna Johanknecht's story exemplifies the potential of these programs. Once a curious attendee, she now returns as a virtual construction intern, a testament to the event's ability to spark interest. However, national and state statistics paint a sobering picture. Women make up a mere fraction of the construction workforce, a gap even wider in Wisconsin.

This lack of diversity comes at a cost. The industry is booming, with hundreds of thousands of open positions. As Dave Walsh, Miron's executive vice president of HR, points out, relying solely on a traditional talent pool hinders growth.  "Build Like a Girl" attempts to address this by showcasing the diverse opportunities available, from hands-on craft skills to virtual construction, like Johanknecht's area of expertise.

The event's success lies not just in recruitment, as Walsh emphasizes.  It's about breaking down stereotypes and showing young women that construction can be a fulfilling career path.  Jacquelyn Kempen, a student attendee, embodies this shift. Despite its male-dominated image, construction holds her interest, a testament to the program's impact.

However, questions remain. Can a single event spark a long-term shift?  Miron's commitment to the "Million Women in Construction Community Pledge" suggests a broader strategy.  This accountability goes beyond internal goals, signaling a collaborative effort within the industry.

Ultimately, "Build Like a Girl" offers a step in the right direction. But for a more equitable future, the industry needs sustained efforts to dismantle barriers and actively support women who choose construction careers.  By showcasing opportunities, fostering connections, and fostering a culture of inclusion, initiatives like this can help build a more diverse and robust construction workforce.