Carhartt, the renowned American workwear brand, has launched a new round of its pioneering grant program, “For the Love of Labor.” The program aims to increase gender diversity in construction and help meet the growing demand for skilled workers in construction. Initially, the grant program was limited to nonprofit organizations in Michigan, where Carhartt is based. It was made available nationwide beginning with the 2023 round of funding.
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The Gender Gap in Construction
In mid-2024, women continue to enter and find success in many career fields historically dominated by men. But their representation in the construction sector has been increasing at a pace best described as glacial, rising from 9.3% in 2002 to only 10.9% more than two decades later. The gender gap persists due largely to stereotypes about suitable careers for women, workplace culture challenges, and a lack of targeted support for women entering these fields.
According to 2022 data compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), women make up approximately:
- 6% of electricians
- 2.5% of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters a
- 9% of carpenters
- 11% of construction laborers
And women represent only a modest 11% of general contractors, as reported by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
Program Details and Implementation
The For the Love of Labor program pursues its objectives by awarding grants to nonprofit groups engaged in educating, training, and placing workers in skilled trade jobs. The goal is to reduce the obstacles preventing women from entering the construction trades in greater numbers by providing funding for such groups.
In addition to providing financial support for training and internships, the program offers:
- Funding for Mentorship and Networking Opportunities—Recognizing the importance of guidance and support in career development, organizations receiving grant awards assign mentors to women entering or new to construction. These mentors are seasoned construction professionals who can provide valuable insights, advice, and networking opportunities, helping women navigate challenges and build successful careers.
- Community Engagement and Awareness—Through partnerships with industry associations, educational institutions, and community organizations, Carhartt raises awareness about career opportunities for women in construction and encourages stakeholders to support gender-inclusive hiring practices.
Eligibility Requirements and Grant Awards
U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that focus on skilled trade training programs are eligible to apply for a grant from Carhartt’s for the Love of Labor program. They must also have a track record of placing individuals, particularly women, into meaningful trades jobs and provide services to a minimum of 100 individuals per year.
Carhartt evaluates qualifying applications based on the organization’s ability to address labor shortages and improve access to skilled trades. Priority is often given to initiatives targeting underrepresented groups, including women and veterans.
Grant amounts vary significantly, with recent recipients receiving grants ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. In total, Carhartt has distributed nearly $1.8 million across various organizations.
2023 grant recipients included:
- ANEW (Tukwila, WA), founded in 1980 to improve the access and advancement of women in nontraditional career pathways such as construction and manufacturing. ANEW continues to focus on equity and inclusion in the construction industry for both women and people of color.
- Building Pathways (Roxbury, MA), which seeks to increase the pipeline of diverse workers—particularly women, people of color, and young adults—in the building trades workforce, while ensuring that there are employment and advancement opportunities that lead to lifelong, family-sustaining careers.
- Nontraditional Employment for Women, or NEW (New York, NY), which prepares, trains, and places women in careers in the skilled construction, utility, and maintenance trades, with a focus on women in underserved communities and individuals with underrepresented backgrounds.
- Oregon Tradeswomen (Portland, OR), which puts women on a path to economic independence through empowerment, training, career education, advocacy, and leadership development in the skilled trades.
Application deadlines typically are in the spring, with award announcements in the early fall.
Impact and Success Stories
By providing funding for training, apprenticeships, and mentors and fostering a supportive community, the For the Love of Labor program has empowered numerous women to enter and thrive in traditionally male-dominated construction trades. Success stories abound, showcasing how women who have benefitted from the program have overcome barriers, gained confidence, and become role models for women aspiring to careers in construction.
Future Directions and Sustainability
Looking ahead, Carhartt remains committed to expanding and sustaining its grant program. The company continues to seek partnerships with industry leaders, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to amplify its impact and reach more women interested in pursuing careers in construction. For the Love of Labor not only helps narrow the gender gap in construction but also enriches the industry with diverse perspectives and talents.
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