Construction Inclusion Week 2021 – Q&A
The week of October 18, 2021 was the construction industry’s inaugural Construction Inclusion Week (CIW), a time devoted to identifying ways to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the industry. A consortium of general contractors planned the week in order to educate and enlighten industry leaders about key topics. Cohen Seglias attorneys share their thoughts on diversity-related issues in this Q&A.
Q: What is one area of DEI where you’ve seen the construction industry make progress?
Jackson Nichols: The most progress I’ve seen in the construction industry has been the hiring of young leaders at the management level who are female and racial minorities. I have seen this throughout the industry at many different companies, at least in the DC Metro area. I would like to see more of these young leaders offered leadership and management opportunities as they grow within their companies. Leadership at the top still tends to be white and male.
Q: What are some ways construction companies and industry-supporting firms can continue to cultivate diverse talent?
Lisa Wampler: Once a company has diverse talent, it needs to make sure that it is taking all the necessary steps to advance and retain them. Leaders and managers also need to educate themselves about the importance of inclusivity in the workplace and work to build a corporate culture that encourages the right behaviors and mindsets. Buy-in and follow-through from company management and leaders are absolutely necessary if we want to see change.
Jackson: I think continuing to organize and promote events about diversity and its importance is beneficial for the recruitment of diverse talent. I also think that more firms should highlight the research out there indicating that diversity makes companies healthier and more profitable.
Q: Why do you think DEI matters in the workplace?
Jackson: Diversity, equity, and inclusion matter because they make people feel they are genuinely part of a larger, cohesive group and not a cog in a machine.
“Having diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace not only reflects our society but also gives a voice and much-needed training and jobs to those who have been overlooked.”
