New photo gallery to provide diverse images of construction workforce

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The Associated General Contractors of America has teamed with software solutions company Autodesk to create a collection of photographs featuring diverse workers in the construction industry for media use.

The Construction Diversity Image Library launched today with an established collection of images commissioned from several AGC member firms. Design, engineering and building organizations are invited to contribute to the gallery, according to a news release from the AGC.

“The library is a valuable asset that provides media easy access to photos featuring various communities in construction,” Jan Tuchman, editor-in-chief of Engineering News-Record, said in the release. “It will help us represent diversity in our stories more generally so that hopefully more people can see a place for themselves in the industry, whether in the field, trailer or office.”

In 2019 and 2020, an annual workforce survey conducted by AGC and Autodesk identified a need for more talent, with up to 80% of contractors reporting an inability to find skilled workers. The library aims to increase access to industry diversity imagery as well as avenues to attract new talent.

“Showing potential recruits that they will not be alone on the jobsite will make construction careers even more attractive to many people,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, AGC CEO. “The Construction Diversity Image Library provides an invaluable tool for helping the industry recruit the kind of diverse workforce it needs to keep pace with future demand.”

Organizations interested in contributing to the gallery can learn more online. Images are for editorial use by media publications and will be credited to the contributor.

“As the saying goes, you can't be what you can't see,” said Allison Scott, director of construction thought leadership for Autodesk Construction Solutions. “By increasing the diverse representation of construction professionals in the media, we can show that a career in construction is within reach for people who may never have considered it an option. Both Autodesk and the AGC are committed to celebrating industry diversity and encouraging more growth for the future of work in construction."