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NAWIC introduces its Male Allies Program

NAWIC introduces its Male Allies Program

The National Association of Women in Construction’s (NAWIC) Male Allies Program is equipping men in the construction industry with the tools to champion diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

By the National Association of Women in Construction.

At NAWIC, our vision is an equitable construction industry where all women fully participate and thrive. Construction is the second most male‐dominated workforce in Australia, after mining, and there is not only one solution to improving women’s participation in the industry.

The NAWIC Male Allies Program is designed to help men in the construction industry understand and champion diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In partnership with Lysander Consulting, this self‐paced course, consisting of five digital modules, aims to build awareness and knowledge. It explores key concepts, engages participants in interactive learning experiences and helps develop actionable plans to drive cultural change within their teams and organisations.

Male allies play a crucial role in advancing gender equality and dismantling stereotypes. By actively supporting and advocating for women, they help create a more inclusive society. Their collective voices call for equal opportunity, respect and recognition for all genders, contributing to a more balanced industry and increasing the rates of attraction, development and retention of women.

By participating in the program, learners will develop a comprehensive understanding of gender disparities, biases and challenges faced by women in male‐dominated industries. They will recognise the importance of male allyship in creating an inclusive workplace culture and fostering diversity while acquiring practical skills and strategies to support and advocate for female colleagues, challenge biases and promote gender inclusivity.

By exploring individual and collective roles in fostering gender inclusion – across personal, social, societal and organisational levels – learners will be able to commit to implementing actions to promote gender inclusivity, advocate for change and shift the culture in construction once and for all.

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The five digital modules are:

1. Foundations of Inclusion – Develop a comprehensive understanding of gender disparities and their impact on both individuals and the wider organisation. Foster empathy and awareness of the challenges women face in male‐dominated industries.

2. Breaking Bias – Identify common stereotypes and biases affecting women and understand the consequences. Increase awareness of and overcome unconscious biases by utilising tools for recognition.

3. Allyship in Action – Define the role of a male ally, apply strategies to support female colleagues and understand the importance of bystander intervention. Develop skills in mentoring and sponsoring women for career development.

4. Driving Change – Apply techniques that promote diversity and inclusion in teams and the wider organisation. Identify and address microaggressions, fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.

5. Leadership Impact – Develop action plans to create a positive and inclusive leadership shadow. Empower and inspire male allies to lead by example.

The NAWIC Male Allies Program has been released and is exclusive to NAWIC members. With program structures for both individuals and corporations, there is an option for everyone. You can register your early interest online by searching for ‘Male Allies Program’ on the NAWIC website.

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