Navigating Sexism in Construction: A Creative Approach to Building Respect
In the male-dominated construction industry, where more than 90 percent of workers are men, navigating through crude humor and sexist microaggressions as a woman in the field can be a daily challenge. This is a recounting of my experiences and a creative approach I used to address and transform instances of sexism on the job site.
One day, as I was diligently working on a job site, fishing lighting wire through a conduit, an excavation subcontractor approached me with a request. He asked, "Hey, Honey, can I borrow your measuring tape?" The audacity of being called "Honey" on the job site caught me off guard. Without missing a beat, I struck a boundary by firmly stating, "You can borrow my measuring tape, but I'm not your honey."
He seemed taken aback and quickly explained, "Oh, that's just what I call my daughter." To this, I responded, "Okay, but I am not your daughter." Seeing his discomfort, I proposed a deal for mutual respect, saying, "I'll let you call me honey, but I get to call you sugar, deal?" His reaction was palpable – a mix of surprise, hesitation, and perhaps fear of a potential HR complaint. Eventually, he walked away, and as he left, I called out, "It's all good, sugar, don't worry."
Despite the initial awkward encounter, a couple of months later, we found ourselves working closely on a project involving an 18-foot-tall retaining wall with giant wall blocks. Operating the excavator, he flipped the blocks for me to cut with the demo saw, and we collaborated to ensure the wall was precise and secure. Throughout the project, he treated me with respect, free from patronizing or condescending behavior.
In a moment of lighthearted camaraderie, I approached him and said, "Hey sugar, I really appreciated working with you." He chuckled, and from that point on, our dynamic shifted. When he ran into me in passing, he greeted me with an exuberant "Hey, Honey!" I responded with a playful "Sugar!" and a hug, marking the beginning of a friendship that transcended the initial discomfort.
The journey to combat sexism in the construction industry often requires a creative and assertive approach. By setting boundaries, offering alternatives, and promoting mutual respect, it's possible to transform awkward encounters into opportunities for understanding and collaboration. In the end, fostering open communication and building bridges can lead to positive change, turning potential conflicts into lasting friendships.