Women in Construction Week, March 2nd through 8th, 2025, is a time to honor the remarkable women who have contributed to the construction industry. This article highlights women in the industry, particularly those contributing to cold-formed steel engineering, steel framing, and roll-forming technology. Women inspire us to push boundaries, develop innovative solutions, and continue growing in an ever-evolving male-dominated industry.
The Role of Women in Construction
Women’s rise in construction has significantly shifted the industry. Women have historically been underrepresented in construction, but today, more women are leading projects, managing teams, and contributing valuable insights to construction engineering, particularly in steel framing and cold-formed steel engineering. Diverse perspectives, innovative ideas, and a strong passion for shaping the future of the construction industry have driven this growth.
A 2023 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that only 10.8% of construction workers in the United States are women. While there’s a clear need to increase this percentage across the sector, the same study highlights that women make up 17% of the workforce in metal manufacturing. While this is a notable achievement, we must acknowledge that we still have more work to do in order to close the gap.
An area where women are making their mark is in steel framing, a crucial component in construction projects. Steel framing provides advantages like flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Women who work in steel framing are helping to transform the industry by bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to these time-tested techniques. They are making strides in an industry traditionally dominated by men, showing that gender does not limit expertise or ability.
Women in Cold-Formed Steel & Roll-Forming
Roll-forming technology is essential in steel framing and cold-formed steel engineering because it allows for precision and efficiency in the manufacturing of structural elements. Women are not just participants in this field; they are leading the way in using roll-forming technology to streamline processes and contribute to the sustainability of construction projects. Women’s leadership in roll-forming technology has introduced new solutions to old challenges. By applying this technology, we can reduce waste, improve accuracy, and speed up the production process.
We sat down with four of Scottsdale Construction Systems’ women to discuss their journey in the construction industry and how they got into the world of roll-forming and cold-formed steel. Mahsa Mahdavian, Technical Marketing Director; Thanuja Ranawaka, Principal Engineer; Mariana Guerra, Marketing and Media Coordinator; and Sabrina Steele, Inside Sales Manager, shared their experience with us as women in construction. They reflect on when and how they transitioned into construction as a career, what motivated that decision, and what ultimately led them to Scottsdale Construction Systems. They also discuss the most fulfilling aspects of being part of the team, the valuable lessons they have learned as women in construction, and the advice they would give to their younger selves or to other women looking to enter or grow in the cold-formed steel and roll-forming industry. Check out the full video below.
Learning & Growing in Cold-Formed Steel Engineering
For many women in construction, entering the field of roll-forming and cold-formed steel has been a transformative experience. This specialized area of construction involves designing and constructing structures using thin sheets of steel. It is an innovative approach that offers benefits like lighter weight, easier installation, and greater design flexibility.
Women who specialize in cold-formed steel engineering are bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the field. As they gain experience, they are becoming experts in structural design, manufacturing techniques, and the application of roll-forming technology. The industry continues to benefit from their insights as women at the forefront of engineering and design of new products and processes in this field.
A great example of women’s contributions to the cold-formed steel industry is Dr. Thanuja Ranawaka. The Institution of Engineers Srilanka Queensland Chapter awarded Dr. Ranawaka the prestigious Queensland Professional Engineer of the Year in 2024. Dr. Ranawaka is well-known for structural engineering excellence particularly in cold-formed steel design.
Mentorship & Support in Steel Framing
Another critical factor in the success of women in construction is mentorship. Having strong role models and advocates who can provide guidance and encouragement is key to helping women thrive in the construction industry. As more women enter the field of steel framing and cold-formed steel engineering, the need for mentorship and support has never been more apparent. These women are actively mentoring the next generation of leaders, helping to break down barriers and open doors for others to follow.
Celebrating Diversity & Women in Construction
As we celebrate Women in Construction Week, it is important to recognize how far the industry has come and the incredible strides women are making in steel framing, cold-formed steel engineering, and roll-forming technology. Women are leading the way in creating sustainable, innovative solutions, and driving progress in an ever-evolving industry. It is essential that we continue to support and encourage women in construction, as they are the driving force behind the future of the industry.
At Scottsdale Construction Systems, we are proud to celebrate the incredible women on our team and all that they contribute to our success and the success of the industry. Their dedication, expertise, and hard work are integral to our achievements, and we are constantly inspired by their accomplishments. From leading projects to shaping innovative engineering solutions, their impact is felt across every aspect of our work.
