Women in metal: Strengthening a proven workforce

MCS Influencer Sasha Demyan says to focus on how we continue to attract, prepare and support top talent in an industry that demands skill, leadership and resilience.

The metal construction industry is no longer asking whether women belong here — the answer is clear. Across our sector, women are leading companies, managing complex projects, running operations and shaping the future of metal construction every day. The conversation today is not about inclusion as a goal, but about how we continue to attract, prepare and support top talent in an industry that demands skill, leadership and resilience.

From my perspective as executive director of the Metal Building Contractors & Erectors Association (MBCEA) and as a contributor within the metalcoffeeshop.com community, the role of leadership — men and women alike — is about stewardship. Strong leaders recognize that the industry benefits when talent pipelines are broad, visible and intentional. Male allies aren’t being asked to “make space,” but to actively champion excellence, develop future leaders and reinforce professional standards that allow everyone to perform at their best.

Recruitment is where that stewardship begins. We cannot rely solely on traditional pathways if we want to maintain a strong, skilled workforce. That’s why programs like the Let’s Build Construction Camp for Girls are so important. The camp doesn’t frame construction as a barrier to overcome — it presents it as an opportunity to explore, build and lead. Participants gain hands-on exposure to construction and metal-related skills at a formative age, long before career decisions are locked in. The Mid-Atlantic Chapter of MBCEA has been a proud sponsor of this program, reinforcing our commitment to early engagement and long-term workforce development.

Mentorship and visibility remain powerful — not because women are missing from the industry, but because leadership continuity matters. Seeing women succeed in the field, in the office and in executive roles sends a clear message to the next generation: there is room to grow here. Mentorship accelerates readiness, strengthens confidence and ensures institutional knowledge is passed forward.

Policies and practices that support success — clear career paths, consistent safety standards, professional development and flexibility where possible — aren’t about correcting imbalance. They’re about retaining high performers in a competitive labor market.

The metal industry is already benefiting from strong women leaders. Our responsibility now is to keep the pipeline full, the standards high and the next generation inspired to build on the solid foundation already in place.