Autodesk and the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) have launched the Construction Diversity Image Library, a joint initiative that aims to increase representation and attract a more diverse AEC workforce.

The library is a collection of photographs, for use by media outlets, featuring diverse individuals in the construction workforce. Photos are of real construction teams on real job sites. The library launched with an established collection of photos provided by several AGC member firms. Autodesk and AGC hope to attract and encourage more organizations across the design and building industry to submit their own workforce photos. 

As noted in a press announcement, in 2019 and 2020, the annual workforce survey conducted by the AGC and Autodesk highlighted a growing demand for more talent. Eighty percent of contractors reported that they are unable to find skilled workers. To meet this demand, the construction industry wants to appeal to not just talent but diverse talent. With the Construction Diversity Image Library, media will be able to capture greater representation, which could play a role in fostering a more diverse workforce. 

“The library is a valuable asset that provides media easy access to photos featuring various communities in construction,” said Jan Tuchman, editor-in-chief at Engineering News-Record. “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.” 

“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, CEO of The Associated General Contractors of America. “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.”

This collaboration between Autodesk and AGC follows the pair’s previous initiative, the women’s safety harness grant program, which awarded grants to 21 construction firms to provide more than 300 fall protection safety harnesses designed for women. Like the Construction Diversity Image Library, this program sought to address workforce shortages, improve job site safety, and boost diversity and inclusion in construction.