Building Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Organizational Culture to Support Worker Mental Health and Wellbeing: A Qualitative Study of Employer and Worker Perspectives in Ontario Construction Skilled Trades

This study explored Ontario construction skilled trades employer and worker perspectives on workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and the promotion of worker mental health and wellbeing through building DEI organizational culture. A phenomenological qualitative study was conducted. Fifty-two ( N = 52) participants were recruited and interviewed. Interview data were analyzed using a six-step thematic approach. Three themes were developed: 1) Challenges in organizational culture : participants reported that sexism and biased beliefs on the professional competency of workers from under-represented groups were prevalent within their organizations. Participants highlighted business leadership’ s role in building DEI organizational culture and addressing issues that have affected their organizational reputations and worker retention. 2) Barriers to promoting DEI : a meritocratic hiring approach was identified and restricted the opportunities for under-represented groups. Participants identified a lack of accommodations available in their workplace environment, and some reported lacking awareness of DEI-related issues. 3) Strategies to promote DEI : participants suggested that increasing early career opportunities could help apprentices from under-represented groups build experience and make informed career decisions. These opportunities may also help employers understand an apprentice’s qualifications. Establishing various resources and peer support systems to support the mental health and wellbeing of under-represented workers was also suggested. Multiple challenges existed within the current skilled trades organizational culture, including sexism, biases, hiring barriers, and insufficient accommodations and awareness. Creating career opportunities and social support systems is needed to address these challenges and support worker mental health and wellbeing.