Working as a Woman in Construction

The construction industry is often seen as a man’s world. But is that still true today? And what is it like to work as a woman at Group Monument? We spoke to six women from different roles — from site supervisor to restoration expert, project manager to cost estimator. What unites them is a shared passion for building, creating, and restoring.

We discussed their experiences as women and the challenges of working in a typically male-dominated sector with Evelyn De Schepper (restoration expert at Altri Tempi), Laura Deleersnyder (project manager at Monument Hainaut), Kristien Hanselaer (stained-glass project manager at Monument Vandekerckhove), Steffi Blommaert (cost estimator at Monument Vandekerckhove), Eline Leenknecht (project manager), and Sofie Taelman (site supervisor), all at Monument Vandekerckhove.

What’s it like working in a sector often seen as 'male'?

“I don’t really notice it that much,” says Eline. “Yes, there are fewer women in project management, but collaboration goes smoothly. I don’t need to adapt how I communicate to be heard.”
“As long as you do your job well, you earn respect — no matter your gender,” adds Laura.

Sofie admits: “At first, I was a bit insecure. Becoming a site supervisor as a young woman was a big step. But I’ve always been treated with respect. Sometimes the barrier is more in your own head than in your colleagues’.”

Evelyn recalls that it used to be different. “Sixteen years ago, it was more unusual. People would say, ‘What’s she doing here?’ But things have changed. Women are now a familiar sight on construction sites.”

What do you enjoy most about your job?

“The variety,” Evelyn answers without hesitation. “Every project is different; no two days are the same. You’re always learning — that’s what makes it so interesting.”

Laura agrees: “It’s a job with so much variety and teamwork. You’re constantly shifting between planning, consulting, and leading. Seeing what you've achieved together at the end of a project is incredibly rewarding.”

Kristien adds: “Restoration is very diverse. I work in the studio, on-site, and attend meetings... that dynamic makes it exciting.”

Are there specific strengths you bring as women?

“Communication, without a doubt,” says Kristien. “We ask more questions, we want clarity. Men might just say ‘it’ll be fine,’ while we prefer clearly defined steps.”

“And structure,” adds Steffi. “I find women are often better at multitasking and more organized administratively.”

Laura also mentions attention to detail and empathy. “These are qualities that can really make a difference in a construction project.”

“I don’t really think much about the man-woman aspect anymore,” says Eline, and Sofie agrees: “I feel respect for everyone here — regardless of gender or background.”

“I actually enjoy working with men,” Steffi laughs. “They’re more straightforward, and I appreciate that.”

How do you balance work and personal life?

“With a young child at home, it can be a puzzle,” says Sofie. “But my team is supportive, and my manager is open to discussing solutions.” Evelyn agrees: “An honest conversation with my manager helped find a good balance between work and home.”

Kristien notes the changing times: “Ten years ago, flexible work in construction was rare. Now it’s more accepted — and that makes a big difference.”

Why should women consider a career in construction?

“It doesn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman,” says Eline. “The variety in the job is what makes it so attractive. You’re not always stuck behind a desk or just on-site — it’s a good mix.”

“Exactly,” Laura adds. “You work on tangible projects that you can look back on with pride. That gives great satisfaction.”

“And,” Sofie adds, “it’s a sector where women really have their place. You don’t have to prove anything as long as you do your job well.”

Laura nods: “There’s definitely room for women in construction. Man or woman — it’s a sector worth joining.”

Although construction has historically been a male domain, the voices of our women show that it’s now all about skill, passion, and collaboration — regardless of gender. That’s something Group Monument is proud of. Thank you, ladies, for the inspiring conversation!

Interested in a challenging and varied career in a respectful and inclusive company?
Check out our current job openings now or send an email with your CV and cover letter to jobs@monument.be. We'll get back to you soon!