HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Traditionally, the construction industry has been male-dominated, but a growing number of women are making their mark each year.

“We have a pretty large co-op and intern program, and every year, we’re seeing more and more women coming through each class,” shared Alexa Toler, an Assistant Project Manager at Brasfield & Gorrie. “Even when I went through college, I was the only woman in my class, and now when I look around, there are women everywhere popping up.”

Toler, who is deeply involved in both the office and fieldwork, noted, “I’m on the job, trying to get out a couple of times a week, walking with subcontractors in our field team, seeing what needs to be handled.”

Over the past decade, Toler has witnessed a dramatic shift in her company, with the number of women in her company’s operations group growing from about 10 to over 200.

March's first week is dedicated to celebrating women in construction. Governor Kay Ivey has signed a proclamation recognizing organizations like the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), which support the female professionals who are driving change in the industry.

“It helps you to really foster that community and have that support system,” said Brittney Gaston, a Digital Marketing & Business Development Specialist at Jesse Stutts, Inc.

Gaston, who also serves as the marketing chair of NAWIC, pointed out that the organization not only works to build community but also helps members navigate challenges in their professional lives. The North Alabama chapter of NAWIC was founded just a year ago.

“We found that there was a large interest,” Gaston explained. “A lot of us were being overlooked in meetings, and we wanted to create a space for our ladies to feel seen and heard.”

One of NAWIC’s main goals is also to support and inspire the next generation of women in construction. Gaston encourages young women to step forward with confidence, saying they have the potential to succeed in this field.

For those looking to start their journey in construction, Go Build Alabama offers training opportunities for young people interested in joining the industry and other skilled trades.

In addition to NAWIC’s efforts, local businesses and organizations are embracing the idea of greater inclusivity, actively seeking to recruit and retain women in construction roles.

Some women are not only helping to build structures but are also driving innovations in project management and design. There is a clear trend of women taking on leadership roles and setting new standards in how construction projects are managed, from logistics to client communication.

Mentorship programs have also become increasingly important in the industry. Experienced women in construction are stepping up to mentor the next generation of workers, offering guidance on everything from technical skills to balancing work-life commitments.

As women continue to shape the future of construction, the industry is evolving into a more inclusive and diverse field, where female professionals are not just part of the workforce but are actively transforming the way things are built.

With resources like NAWIC, mentorship programs, and supportive networks like Go Build Alabama, women in North Alabama are not just participating in the construction industry—they are thriving.

Originally reported by Kayla Smith in WHNT.