Governor Signs Executive Order to Boost Diversity in Construction Workforce
BOSTON — Governor Maura Healey has signed an Executive Order aimed at increasing the participation of women and historically underrepresented groups in the construction industry.
The signing took place at the Sheet Metal Workers Local 17 Training Center with U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Labor & Workforce Development Secretary Lauren Jones, union leaders, and apprentices in attendance.
This initiative builds on efforts by the Biden-Harris Administration, led by Secretary Raimondo, to expand access to quality construction jobs for underrepresented groups, including women, veterans, people of color, individuals with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ workers. Women currently make up only 11 percent of the construction workforce and just 4 percent of trade occupations.
"Here in Massachusetts, we know that we get the best results when our workforce reflects the rich diversity of the people of our state," said Governor Healey. "The construction industry offers good-paying jobs and benefits that sustain families, and it’s important that we increase access to this field for women and historically underrepresented groups. Not only is it good for these workers and their families, but it’s also good for our employers and our economy as a whole."
The Executive Order establishes a Diverse and Equitable Construction Workforce Participation Committee, which will facilitate interagency collaboration, identify best practices, and encourage equitable workforce participation. This includes prioritizing registered apprenticeships, hiring local businesses with a record of diversity, and supporting contractors offering services like childcare. The Committee will also work on data collection to measure the participation of women and underrepresented groups.
Additionally, the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) is forming Access and Opportunity Committees (AOCs) to improve diversity in construction projects. All DCAMM projects with an estimated construction cost over $35 million will be required to participate in these committees, which will track workforce participation and expand opportunities for underrepresented groups.
