Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1535247
W O R K F O R M E / S P R I N G 2 0 2 5 16 I n Maine, we have a unique challenge before us: more people are retiring from the workforce than entering. Maine's dwindling workforce and the need for affordable housing are two of the state's most pressing economic challenges. The parallel goals outlined by state lead- ers call for adding 76,000 housing units and 75,000 workers by 2030. They are two very critical and lofty goals and, quite appropriately, women are being positioned as part of the solution. In the past 10 years, there has been a 45% increase in women in the construction industry. The industry is growing, but not quickly enough to address our state's acute economic challenges. Most Maine construction firms report a lack of available talent. To address that, Gov. Janet Mills signed an executive order in 2024 to increase opportunity for women in construction and invested $32 million to create incen- tives and training programs. And while the full impact of that executive order is still unknown, a grassroots effort within the industry is emerging to begin bolstering the trade industry workforce. Many are focused on creating inclusive and equitable environments to create a culture of equal- ity and inclusivity so women can thrive in this industry. How women can help stem the labor shortages in construction B Y A S H L E Y R I S B A R A , M & R D E V E L O P M E N T P H O T O / C O U R T E S Y O F M & R D E V E L O P M E N T Adult Case Managers* Direct Support Professionals Ed Techs iCoaches We're Hiring! APPLY NOW! waypointmaine.org 5 Dunaway Dr., Sanford, Maine 207.324.7955 *$3,000 Sign-On Bonus Ashley Risbara is corporate director of marketing and communication at Scarborough-based M&R Development, which has investment, construction, architecture and property management divisions is the developer of the Downs. C o m m e n t a r y