New Jersey, October 15, 2025
New Jersey has been ranked 12th in the nation for women’s pay in the construction industry, indicating significant improvements in opportunities and wages for female workers. The state’s competitive salaries and job growth make it an appealing destination for women entering this traditionally male-dominated field. This positive trend highlights the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable workforce within the construction sector, according to reports from WV News.
New Jersey’s Construction Industry Sees Growth in Women’s Participation and Earnings
New Jersey ranks 12th nationally for women’s pay in construction, reflecting improved opportunities and wages for female workers in the industry.
The state boasts competitive salaries and job growth, making it attractive for women entering this male-dominated field.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023, New Jersey women who were full-time wage and salary workers had median usual weekly earnings of $1,168, significantly below the $1,497 median usual weekly earnings of their male counterparts.
However, the construction sector has shown a more favorable wage gap for women. In 2024, women in New Jersey earned $1,265 in a typical week compared with $1,460 for men, resulting in a narrower pay gap of 13%, compared to the overall state-wide gap of 15%.
To further support women’s advancement in the construction trades, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has been actively investing in training programs. In September 2025, NJDOL announced $1.5 million in funding through the New Jersey Builder’s Utilization Initiative for Labor Diversity (NJBUILD) Women and Minority Veterans in Construction Trades grant program. This initiative aims to provide women and minority veterans with training in preparation for placement in Registered Apprenticeship programs and full-time employment in the construction industry.
These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance diversity and inclusion within New Jersey’s construction workforce, ensuring that it reflects the state’s diverse communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is New Jersey’s ranking for women’s pay in the construction industry?
New Jersey ranks 12th nationally for women’s pay in construction, reflecting improved opportunities and wages for female workers in the industry.
How do women’s earnings in the construction sector compare to other industries in New Jersey?
In 2024, women in New Jersey earned $1,265 in a typical week compared with $1,460 for men, resulting in a narrower pay gap of 13%, compared to the overall state-wide gap of 15%.
What initiatives has NJDOL implemented to support women in the construction trades?
In September 2025, NJDOL announced $1.5 million in funding through the NJBUILD Women and Minority Veterans in Construction Trades grant program to provide women and minority veterans with training for Registered Apprenticeship programs and full-time employment in the construction industry.
What is the NJBUILD program?
The NJBUILD program is an initiative by NJDOL aimed at increasing diversity and inclusion within New Jersey’s construction workforce by providing training and support to women and minority veterans, preparing them for careers in the construction industry.
Key Features of Women’s Participation and Earnings in New Jersey’s Construction Industry
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| National Ranking | 12th in women’s pay in construction |
| Median Weekly Earnings (2023) | $1,168 for women; $1,497 for men |
| Pay Gap in Construction Sector (2024) | 13% (women earn $1,265; men earn $1,460) |
| Statewide Pay Gap (2024) | 15% (women earn $1,265; men earn $1,460) |
| NJBUILD Program Funding (September 2025) | $1.5 million for training women and minority veterans |
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Author: Construction NJ News
NEW JERSEY STAFF WRITER The NEW JERSEY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionnjnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Jersey and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the New Jersey Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of New Jersey and the New Jersey Builders Association, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Gibbons P.C. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
