A phenomenological study of mentoring women of color in the construction industry

The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological research was to investigate the mentoring and career development experiences of women of color working in the construction industry. The research study analysis utilized NVivo 9© software and identified eight common themes in the data. Based on the 25 women of color construction workers interviewed, the findings revealed: (a) the influence of a mentor, (b) work ethic and determination, (c) overcoming barriers working in the construction industry as a woman of color, (d) career journey, (e) unfair working conditions, (f) career choice, (g) career options and advancement, and (h) perception in the workplace. The implications of the study suggest that social changes among construction leaders of racial inequalities and gender are needed in the industry to reduce workplace discrimination and to cultivate a more conducive environment to promote women of color in the construction industry. Future study of developing organized mentorship opportunities should be devised and implemented for each skill phase for female construction workers. The mentoring programs could give women of color more access to union leadership positions to be in positon to be at the table to make decisions that impact day-to day activities in the field.