The idea of workplace diversity is nothing new, but its progress in the engineering and construction world is, well, diverse. Some firms take a minimal approach, adhering to federal rules regarding minority and disadvantaged businesses or anti-discrimination laws. Others cite diversity and inclusion as a core value and business imperative.
“We are in an ongoing crisis with regard to diversity in engineering,” claims Donna Riley, associate professor of engineering at Smith College, Northampton, Mass., and author of “Engineering and Social Justice.” “We've created a lot of programs that have been successful at both recruitment and retention,” she says. “These efforts are focused on helping underrepresented people find, be attracted to and survive in a system that is still not inclined to be welcoming.”