Building Beyond Barriers: Women Leading the Way in Construction with Barb Allen

What can be done to attract more women to construction? 

 

Today, on the Leadership Blueprints podcast, we welcome Barb Allen, a renowned construction industry keynote speaker and host of the Constructive Behaviors Podcast. In honor of Women in Construction Week, we talked with Barb about her construction career and how she is helping more women find success in the industry. 

 

From stumbling on a degree in construction management – and immediately realizing it was what she wanted to do – to spending over twenty years in the field, Barb recounts how she moved through the ranks to where she is today. 

We discuss the current level of diversity in construction, what can be done to attract more women to the field, and how The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) programs are introducing a new generation of young people to the joys of construction work. Barb also shares the story behind her 14%ers Subscription Box, designed to support and empower women in construction. 

 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about breaking barriers and building a more inclusive future!

 

Key Points From This Episode:

•   How she uses public speaking to address gender-specific challenges.

•   Unpacking the variety of career paths in construction.

•   What the industry can do to attract more women to construction.

•   Why companies should spotlight female employees and their roles.

•   How to normalize construction as a career path for women from a young age.

 

Quotes:

“It's important that companies are spotlighting, as much as possible, the women that work in their companies and – help people understand what it is they do. Because we have amazing women.” — Barb Allen

 

“There's such a stigma about the challenges that women face in the industry. And yes, we face challenges, but when we are overcoming these, it is such a rewarding career.” — Barb Allen

 

“The more we can work together to make a more inclusive environment for everyone in it, the more successful this industry will be.” — Barb Allen 

 

“Safety glasses are so inexpensive. But the first time I put these safety glasses on, and they fit in my face. I was like, ‘Oh my gosh. I'm 30 years into this industry, and this is the first pair of safety glasses that feel like they fit!’” — Barb Allen
 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Barb Allen

Barb Allen on LinkedIn

Constructive Behaviors Podcast

Women In Construction Subscription Box: The 14%ers

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)
Women in Construction Week

Women in Construction Midwest Region | Block Kids Building Program

Camp NAWIC | Building the Next Generation: Construction Programs for Girls (and Boys!)
GoldieBlox Superbowl commercial 2014

Plumber Paige

Plumber Paige Books

Judaline Cassidy

Judaline Cassidy Books

Talking from 9 to 5: Women and Men at Work

Leadership Blueprints Podcast

MCFA

MCFA Careers

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

What is Leadership Blueprints?

Leadership Blueprints is a podcast dedicated to helping leaders align teams, navigate chaos, and accomplish the mission. Hosted by BJ Kraemer—West Point graduate, combat veteran, and President & CEO of MCFA—this show dives into the principles, stories, and strategies behind effective leadership.

With a background in military service and experience leading teams in business, infrastructure, and complex projects, BJ understands that success comes down to execution, adaptability, and leading people well. Through in-depth interviews with accomplished leaders across business, sports, the military, and beyond, Leadership Blueprints will help you bring your vision to reality on projects that shape communities and industries.

Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the field, in the military, or within your own organization, this podcast is designed to provide the tools and mindset needed to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose. Subscribe now and start building your Leadership Blueprint.