At 48 years old, Berta Burgos Olivas has built a strong career as a Fine Arts graduate specialising in restoration. Although she currently works as a teacher and workshop instructor in furniture restoration and artisanal bookbinding, her experience in construction—especially in Italy—gives her a unique perspective on the role of women in the sector.

How would you describe the current situation for women in the construction industry?

I worked in Italy, where I started in construction, and it was a tough experience. The industry remains highly male-dominated. While there is more female representation in painting and restoration, in other trades, it is a constant struggle to be accepted.

What do you think about women’s participation in construction?

In restoration, I have been fortunate to work with more women than men, which is unusual in other areas of construction. However, it remains challenging because many women end up leaving the sector due to the lack of policies that promote retention and equality.

What types of jobs do women typically do in construction?

I have seen a greater female presence in painting and restoration, both in Italy and Spain. However, in trades directly related to construction, such as bricklaying, I have not come across any women.

What factors help integrate women into the industry?

Women bring organisation, cleanliness, and productivity, working with speed and efficiency. However, measures are needed to make our work easier, such as auxiliary machinery to reduce physical strain.

What barriers do women face when entering the industry?

There are many obstacles, from a lack of confidence in ourselves to the need to constantly prove our training and skills. The physical demands of the job can also be challenging, and we do not always have the right tools to assist us. Additionally, construction remains an unknown career path for many women—I didn’t know I could work in building restoration until a friend told me about it.

How should female inclusion in construction be encouraged?

It is essential to have more women as vocational training teachers and trade instructors. Educators serve as role models for students and show that women have a rightful place in construction. We also need strategies to make our work more visible and raise awareness among companies.

What policies or incentives do you think would help reduce the gender gap?

Although some companies hire women for financial incentives, it is astonishing that they still need to be motivated in this way. However, if this helps more women enter the sector, it is at least a step forward.

What message would you like to share with women interested in this field?

Women are highly skilled and constantly train to improve. It is crucial to stay up to date and trust in our abilities, even if we have to prove ourselves more than men to gain recognition.

What are your hopes for the future of women in construction?

There is still a long way to go, but I am hopeful that more women will join the industry over time. It is also essential that our male colleagues support us on-site so that we can work together towards equality.