There is no singular experience that defines what it's like to be a woman in the construction industry today. There is a common thread, however: underrepresentation. Women make up 47% of the overall U.S. workforce but just 9% of the construction industry. However, women are making a critical impact in construction and are gaining recognition that's helping draw more women to the field.

To mark Women in Construction Week 2017, Construction Dive interviewed six women leaders representing multiple facets of the business, from building material sales to homebuilding to architecture to large commercial contracting. As these women tell it, the construction industry can benefit from expanding the diversity of thought and background among the members of its ranks. And they are leading the charge to make it happen.

Read on to learn how these women are improving the status of diversity in their own businesses and the industry at-large, and the positive outcomes from opening the door to new ideas.

1. A community approach: Smoot exec Chrystal Stowe on why diversity and persistence matter

   The company's director of community affairs and business development discusses her experience on the job site, workforce management and a once-in-a-lifetime project. Read More >>

2. Diving in: Taylor Morrison CEO Sheryl Palmer on finding a passion, staying flexible

   Palmer charts her rise through the ranks at one of the country’s top 10 homebuilders and what she learned along the way. Read More >>

3. 'Accomplish the mission': How Amber Peebles brings a Marine Corps mindset to the job site

   The Virginia-based Athena Construction president has adapted her problem-solving skills to succeed in the inherently risky construction industry. Read More >>

4. A foot in the door: Danielle Dy Buncio on improving diversity by starting in schools

   The CEO and president of Chicago-based VIATechnik explains the connection between employing workers with varied backgrounds and industry innovation. Read More >>

5. Fighting bias with intent: Rosa Sheng on empathy, mentors for achieving equity in architecture

   A longtime champion for underrepresented groups in the industry, Sheng explains how advocacy and being deliberate in architectural design can tackle prejudice head on. Read More >>

6. A life in lumber: How Meagan McCoy Jones learned building supply from the inside out

   Now the executive vice president and chief operating officer at McCoy’s Building Supply, McCoy Jones explains the critical role of mentoring to all facets of her family’s fourth-generation business. Read More >>