Appraisal of Career Development Among Female Professionals in the South African Construction Industry

Every human being aspires to attain the top of their career. Failure to achieve such aspirations results in dissatisfaction, poor productivity, lack of interest, and proper engagement in the career. This study explored the impediments and motivational attributes for the career development of females in the construction industry. A survey was conducted among female professionals engaged in the construction industry in South Africa to collect data. Data was analysed by using relevant descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Findings suggested that the very nature of the industry, family and social commitments, bureaucratic structures that hinder access to further education and training, lack of industry-driven support for further or higher education, time constraint due to the intrinsic nature of the industry, apathy, financial constraint on the part of the employer to support females in their career are the major impediments females face. However, passion and dedication, remuneration and financial benefits, career progression, career knowledge, general organisational culture, non-discrimination, protection for females in the company, encouragement for young professionals, and a congenial environment for working for females are some of the important factors that could motivate females in their career development in the construction industry in South Africa.