A Grounded Theory Exploration of Workplace Culture and Mentorship: Advancing Women’s Career Growth and Retention in Construction

10 pages•Published: July 23, 2025

Abigail Petelin, Dimitar Todorov and Hooman Sadeh

Abstract

This study investigates the nuanced challenges and opportunities for women in the construction industry through qualitative methods based on inductive reasoning, focusing on the influences of workplace culture and mentorship on their career progression and retention. By analyzing qualitative data gathered from interviews with twelve women across various industry roles, the research identifies both entrenched systemic barriers—such as male-dominated workplace cultures and uneven career advancement opportunities—and emerging positive dynamics like generational shifts in attitudes and the adoption of supportive technologies. From these observations, the Practical Advancement and Support Framework for Women in Construction (PASFWC) was developed. This framework outlines strategic interventions, including the implementation of robust mentorship programs, equitable career progression processes, and flexible work environments, aimed at creating a better work environment for women and helping contractors utilize the uniqueness of women to widen their productivity and economic growth. The findings suggest that while substantial barriers remain, strategic interventions tailored to the needs of women can facilitate considerable progress. Further research is suggested to empirically test the framework and validate its effectiveness across different contexts within the industry.

Keyphrases: female careers in construction, gender barriers in construction, grounded theory framework, organizational change, women in construction, workplace culture

In: Wesley Collins, Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico (editors). Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference, vol 6, pages 705-714.

Links:	https://easychair.org/publications/paper/kdJh
	https://doi.org/10.29007/gkq9

BibTeX entry

@inproceedings{ASC2025:Grounded_Theory_Exploration_Workplace,
  author    = {Abigail Petelin and Dimitar Todorov and Hooman Sadeh},
  title     = {A Grounded Theory Exploration of Workplace Culture and Mentorship: Advancing Women’s Career Growth and Retention in Construction},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference},
  editor    = {Wesley Collins and Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico},
  series    = {EPiC Series in Built Environment},
  volume    = {6},
  publisher = {EasyChair},
  bibsource = {EasyChair, https://easychair.org},
  issn      = {2632-881X},
  url       = {/publications/paper/kdJh},
  doi       = {10.29007/gkq9},
  pages     = {705-714},
  year      = {2025}}

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