Women-led projects and women in construction are significantly reshaping the construction industry, introducing cutting-edge designs, fostering inclusive communities, and breaking long-standing gender barriers. Across the globe, female leaders are championing initiatives that range from cultural landmarks to sustainable housing solutions, proving that construction is an industry for everyone. Here are some notable projects making a lasting impact:

1. National Black Theatre Redevelopment – Harlem, New York

Spearheaded by Sade Lythcott, CEO of the National Black Theatre (NBT), this transformative project is redefining community space and cultural representation in Harlem. In partnership with architect Frida Escobedo, NBT will soon have a permanent home within Ray Harlem, a 21-story mixed-use development.

The 27,000-square-foot space dedicated to NBT will house a 250-seat flexible theater and a 99-seat studio theater, creating an artistic hub for Black storytelling and creativity. Inspired by West African cultural practices, the project emphasizes heritage, community engagement, and artistic innovation. By anchoring a historic Black institution within a major development, Lythcott’s leadership is ensuring that Harlem’s artistic legacy thrives for generations to come.

Impact: A cultural and artistic renaissance in Harlem, preserving Black storytelling through a permanent community landmark.

2. Kamp Studios – Revolutionizing Plasterwork in Interior Design

Breaking into the male-dominated plastering and interior design industry wasn’t easy, but Kim Collins and Amy Morgenstern, founders of Kamp Studios, are rewriting the narrative. Despite financial struggles and gender biases, their perseverance has led to nationwide recognition for their unique, handcrafted plasterwork designs.

By incorporating bold textures and intricate details, Kamp Studios has carved out a niche in high-end interior design, clearly demonstrating that women can lead innovation in traditional trades. As a result, their work now graces upscale residences and commercial spaces, continually setting new standards in interior craftsmanship.

Impact: Showcasing the power of women entrepreneurs in trade skills, inspiring more women to enter specialized construction fields.

3. Solar Mamas – Empowering Women Through Solar Engineering

By bridging the gap between sustainability and gender equality, the Solar Mamas program—initiated by Barefoot College in India—trains women from remote villages to become solar engineers.

Despite having little to no formal education, these women successfully learn to assemble, install, repair, and maintain solar panels, ultimately bringing clean energy to their communities. By gaining technical skills, they secure financial independence while promoting sustainable energy solutions in areas lacking electricity access.

Impact: Empowering women through renewable energy training, turning them into leaders in their communities while driving global sustainability efforts.

4. Part W Collective – Advocating for Gender Equity in Architecture & Construction

Founded in 2018 by Zoë Berman, Part W is not just a British advocacy collective—it is actively fighting for gender equality in architecture, construction, and urban planning.

In particular, the group challenges the industry’s male-dominated status quo by promoting female-led projects and policies that help reshape the built environment.

Their initiatives include:

• “The Alternative List” – Showcasing overlooked female architects and designers who have made historic contributions.
• “Women’s Work” – A mapping project highlighting major London-based construction projects where women played pivotal roles.

By actively amplifying female voices in architecture and construction, Part W is ensuring that women receive the recognition, representation, and leadership opportunities they deserve in an industry where they remain significantly underrepresented.

Impact: Driving policy change and women in architecture as well as women in construction, ensuring they have a seat at the table in shaping city landscapes.

Building a More Inclusive Future – Women in Construction

These women-led projects and women in construction are more than just impressive feats of engineering and design—they are movements that challenge industry norms and open doors for future generations of women in construction. From cultural institutions to sustainable housing and renewable energy solutions, female leaders are not only shaping the built environment but also doing so in innovative and inclusive ways.

Meanwhile, as the construction industry continues to evolve, the contributions of women will only grow, further proving that diverse leadership isn’t just necessary—it’s transformative.

Looking for your next opportunity in the construction industry? Whether you’re starting your journey or seeking leadership roles, Resource Options connects talented professionals with top employers.

About Resource Options Inc.

(ROI) is a full-service construction, design, environmental services staffing, and emergency response firm. We provide customized staffing solutions to clients servicing the built and natural environment. Recognized on five different occasions by Inc. Magazine as one of “America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies”, ROI was founded in 1998 by a group of experienced industry professionals. Our proven ability to deliver highly qualified candidates in a timely fashion has earned us the reputation as a true and lasting business partner with both clients and candidates. www.resourceoptions.com.