By Elaina Myers, Assistant Editor

Across the United States, women are increasing their presence in skilled trades and construction careers. In 2024, women made up 11.2 percent of the construction workforce — totaling over 1.34 million workers — which is the highest share in more than two decades, according to the National Association of Home Builders. Similarly, data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows continued growth in female participation across skilled trades specialties and project management roles.  

A major new healthcare facility in Lakeland, Florida clearly represents this shift with more than 60 women working on the project. Set to open this July, the Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital is a seven-story, modern addition to the region’s healthcare infrastructure.  

“When I first started with Orlando Health, there really wasn’t many women on the job or in construction at that time. We’ve come a long way since then,” says Kim McMurphy, senior director of facilities development at Orlando Health. “Seeing the team on this site now is so refreshing — they’re bringing a lot of new, fresh ideas to the table.” 

The hospital will include 300 inpatient beds, 69 emergency and observation rooms, 11 operating rooms and four cardiac and interventional suites. The facility features wide corridors, standardized room layouts and strategic placement of departments, which are all design elements that will enhance workflow and long-term adaptability.  

The integration of new technology is a big cornerstone of the project.  Patient rooms will include digital interactive boards — replacing traditional whiteboards — and digital signage, as well as wayfinding systems that will guide visitors and staff throughout the building.  

Much of this work has been led and executed by the women on-site who bring experience across many trades, including electrical, drywall, fireproofing and project management.  

Involving women in the design and construction process brings diverse perspectives that highlight critical, often overlooked factors in male-dominated environments.  

“Women are looking at the environmental closets, at how the floors are going to be safe and conductive for patients and families, at minor details that can make a huge impact,” McMurphy says. “We bring a different vision to everything we’re touching in the field.” 

With its combination of advanced technology, flexible design and collaborative approach, this hospital stands as an example of how an evolving workforce can shape modern healthcare facilities.  

“Seeing so many skilled women contributing across disciplines is a powerful indicator of where the industry is headed,” McMurphy says. “The level of coordination and craftsmanship on this site is exceptional. It’s a testament to what diverse teams can accomplish when given the opportunity.” 

Elaina Myers is the assistant editor of the facilities market.