New initiative aims to support women in construction

The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) has launched Women Rising, a new initiative designed to support, connect, and advance women in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Announced on International Women’s Day (08/03/25), the programme will offer mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities to help women progress in their careers and take on leadership roles.

The initiative is open to all CTBUH members, including women at all career stages, as well as organisations committed to improving diversity and inclusion in the built environment. Women Rising aims to address the underrepresentation of women in construction and urban development by providing structured support and visibility.

The programme will focus on five key areas:

• Networking and collaboration – Conferences, forums, and industry events to connect women professionals across disciplines.
• Professional development – Workshops, training sessions, and leadership programmes to build technical and career skills.
• Mentorship and sponsorship – Opportunities to learn from senior industry leaders and gain career guidance.
• Recognition and visibility – Awards and initiatives to highlight the achievements of women in the sector.
• Business and career growth – Platforms for women-led projects, partnerships, and career opportunities.

The first Women Rising event will take place on 16 April. Led by Women Rising committee member Julia Köhler, the session is part of a pre-event webinar series in the run-up to the CTBUH 2025 Europe Conference, scheduled for 3 to 5 June in Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

By launching Women Rising, CTBUH aims to create a more inclusive and supportive industry, ensuring that women have the skills, connections, and recognition needed to thrive in construction, engineering, and urban development.