The Association of Construction Technicians (ATECO) is implementing a project in Jacmel aimed at facilitating women’s access to careers in the construction industry. Funded by the French Embassy through the "Fonds Équipe France" (FEF), this initiative seeks to help reduce gender inequalities in a sector still largely perceived as male-dominated, while also strengthening women’s economic empowerment.

In the construction sector, women continue to face barriers when attempting to enter technical trades or access available job opportunities. These professions often viewed as the exclusive domain of men—remain difficult for women to access. In Jacmel, however, women are beginning to carve out a space for themselves in this field.

"For a long time, women were led to believe that certain job, especially those in construction, weren't meant for them. Thanks to ATECO, I can say that we are beginning to overcome this challenge," notes Sœurette Toussaint, a building construction technician. "Today, we realize that no profession is reserved exclusively for men..."

As part of this project, 35 individuals, 65% of whom are women, received training in various construction-related fields. They gained the technical and practical skills necessary to facilitate their professional integration into the sector.

Some participants are already putting their expertise to work in the field. Sœurette Toussaint, for instance, is now employed at a construction site in Jacmel. "I can say that this job has improved my economic situation. Thanks to the trade I learned through this project, we have become self-reliant."

According to Jonas Milien, President of ATECO, this project is helping to shift perceptions regarding the role of women in Haiti’s construction sector. It sees this as an opportunity to challenge the stereotypes that still limit women’s access to technical professions and to promote their participation in all stages of construction work.

Through its support for ATECO, the French Embassy is backing a local initiative that combines vocational training, economic empowerment, and the promotion of gender equality. This project aligns with the objectives of the FEF, which supports Haitian civil society organizations committed to women’s rights and empowerment.

"This project illustrates France’s vision of feminist diplomacy in Haiti," explains Laurent Clavel, Counselor for Cooperation and Cultural Action at the French Embassy in Haiti, adding "By opening up construction trades and technical fields to these women, we demonstrate that the transition toward more inclusive societies requires valuing all talent—free from stereotypes or exclusion."

Photo credit : French Embassy in Haiti

HL/ HaitiLibre