ABSTRACT
The potential benefits of workforce diversity are enormous, but so are the challenges of harnessing it. In contrast to industries such as information technology (IT) and electronics, the construction sector is not widely regarded as an industry that effectively represents and uses the talents of all groups within society to its advantage. Ironically, however, it is one of the best-placed industries to do so. As the working population in most countries becomes increasingly diverse, the construction industry once again faces the prospect of losing an opportunity to enhance its creative and productive potential. The danger is that its poor record will make it a less attractive career option for potential new entrants from under-represented groups and will prevent it from benefiting from the skills, talents and varied perspectives of a balanced workforce.
