Type “construction” into Google, and it will take you a while to see a photo that includes a woman. If you walk onto a job site or in a construction office, it’s a similar situation with only 10 percent of women occupying roles in the industry, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. It's a statistic the industry as a whole is working to change.

Within Myers-Lawson School of Construction, nearly half the faculty members are women. One of them, Ashley Johnson, serves as the program chair for construction engineering and management. She said the school’s diversity and inclusivity is part of what sets it apart. As she and the other professors within Myers-Lawson shape the next generation of construction leaders, she hopes they take advantage of the opportunities that are available at Virginia Tech and beyond.

“By leveraging their skills, women can contribute meaningfully to project success and industry advancement. I encourage them to embrace the challenges and rewards of construction. With dedication, women can make invaluable contributions to the industry, paving the way for continued growth and diversity in the field,” said Johnson.

For Virginia Tech students, creating change starts now, even before graduation. Through student groups such as Building Women in Construction, strong female faculty, and mentorship programs, students can find community and support during their time in school and beyond.  

To celebrate Women’s History Month, we talked with some of these students in the Myers-Lawson School of Construction about their passion as they become the future of the industry.

Find out more: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University