Maine is making a significant effort to increase gender diversity in the construction industry with a new executive order signed by Governor Janet Mills. The order aims to address the persistently low representation of women in this traditionally male-dominated sector. While only 15 percent of construction workers in Maine are currently women, the state’s figure is higher than the national average of 11 percent.
Governor Mills emphasized the importance of including women in every sector of the economy, including those historically dominated by men, such as construction and trades. In light of the looming shortage of construction workers in Maine, particularly as infrastructure projects are set to ramp up with federal funding, the executive order seeks to encourage more women to pursue careers in construction.
To assess the current situation, the Maine Department of Labor will conduct a comprehensive survey of contractors, staffing agencies, and labor unions to determine the number of women employed in these organizations. The goal is to identify and address the barriers that prevent more women from entering and succeeding in the construction industry.
The executive order also directs state agencies to facilitate connections between construction workers and women training for trades. The focus is on encouraging companies to prioritize hiring based on gender rather than solely relying on qualifications and experience. Additionally, grant opportunities will be pursued to provide employers with financial incentives for hiring women.
Governor Mills urged women and girls across Maine to consider pursuing meaningful careers in construction, emphasizing that these jobs are crucial for the state’s development and that the industry needs their expertise. By actively promoting gender diversity in construction, Maine aims to create more pathways for women to enter and thrive in this important field.
This executive order represents a significant step in fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce in Maine’s construction industry. By recognizing the value and potential of women workers, the state is taking proactive measures to break down barriers and create opportunities for all.
FAQ:
1. What is the purpose of the executive order signed by Governor Janet Mills?
– The executive order aims to increase gender diversity in the construction industry in Maine.
2. What is the current representation of women in the construction industry in Maine?
– Currently, only 15 percent of construction workers in Maine are women, which is higher than the national average of 11 percent.
3. Why is it important to include women in traditionally male-dominated sectors like construction?
– Governor Mills emphasizes the importance of including women in every sector of the economy and addressing the looming shortage of construction workers in Maine.
4. How will the Maine Department of Labor assess the current situation?
– The Maine Department of Labor will conduct a comprehensive survey of contractors, staffing agencies, and labor unions to determine the number of women employed in the construction industry.
5. What is the goal of the survey conducted by the Maine Department of Labor?
– The goal is to identify and address the barriers that prevent more women from entering and succeeding in the construction industry.
6. What does the executive order direct state agencies to do?
– The executive order directs state agencies to facilitate connections between construction workers and women training for trades and encourages companies to prioritize hiring women. It also pursues grant opportunities to provide employers with financial incentives for hiring women.
7. Why did Governor Mills urge women and girls to pursue careers in construction?
– Governor Mills emphasized that these jobs are crucial for the state’s development and that the industry needs women’s expertise.
Definitions:
1. Executive order: An official directive or regulation issued by the governor or president of a nation or state, carrying the force of law.
2. Gender diversity: Refers to the inclusion of individuals of different genders in various sectors or industries, promoting equality and equal representation.
3. Construction industry: A sector dedicated to the planning, designing, and building of structures, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Related Links:
– Maine Department of Labor
– Governor Janet Mills