Navigating DEI Challenges: EFCG on the Realities of DEI Leadership in Construction

The construction and engineering sectors are undergoing a shift in how leadership, diversity, and inclusion intersect. As companies strive to create workplaces that reflect broader societal values, they are also confronting growing complexities—particularly in light of evolving federal policies and the legal scrutiny surrounding DEI programs. These external pressures are adding new layers of challenge to efforts that were already intricate, requiring firms to be more intentional and informed in their approach.

At the Groundbreaking Women in Construction (GWIC) conference in February 2025, Julie Hasiba, Managing Partner and Talent & Compensation Lead at Environmental Financial Consulting Group (EFCG), addressed a room of more than 300 AEC professionals. Drawing on data from EFCG’s latest industry survey, Hasiba shared encouraging trends: Women now account for 30% of new hires and minorities make up 25%—a notable increase since 2010.

This progress, she explained, is more than symbolic. “[Industry] DEI programs are actually having positive impact in terms of turnover rates and representation,” she noted, pointing to a corresponding drop in attrition among these groups to around 15%.

These statistics underscore a critical and often overlooked reality: thoughtfully implemented DEI initiatives are producing tangible outcomes. While much of the public discourse tends to focus on ideology or intent, Hasiba’s data highlights what’s actually working—lower turnover, increased representation, and greater organizational stability.

Yet progress hasn’t come without resistance. Hasiba was candid about the challenges firms are facing as they navigate divergent views on DEI’s role in the workplace.

“But there's a lot of tension [now] around this topic,” she said. “Firms have really had to grapple with the differing views and perspectives on DEI.”

She pointed to several concerns fueling this internal friction: apprehension over reverse discrimination, fundamental questions about the extent to which companies should shape societal outcomes, and, most recently, concern for repercussions related to the latest US administration’s DEI-focused executive orders. These are not trivial issues; they reflect a broader transformation taking place across boardrooms, job sites, and leadership circles throughout the industry.

With decades of experience embedded in the AEC sector, EFCG brings a long-view perspective on how organizations evolve, especially during moments of cultural, operational, or financial transformation. This depth of industry understanding informs a more nuanced view of how leadership teams are interpreting and responding to today’s DEI challenges. Rather than oversimplify, EFCG advocates for data-informed strategies, clear internal alignment, and a focus on sustainable change over surface-level solutions.

The path forward for DEI in construction, architecture, engineering and consulting isn’t linear, and it’s rarely easy. But as Hasiba and others at the 2025 GWIC conference made clear, the momentum is real and worth protecting. Progress depends not just on intention, but on clarity, consistency, and a willingness to navigate discomfort in pursuit of something better.

“As the industry continues to redefine the future of work, diversity, equity, and inclusion must remain a central part of the conversation, not just as a value-driven imperative, but as a strategic business imperative,” Hasiba asserts. “AEC firms run people-focused businesses. Inclusivity will always have a role in that, and will always be foundational to the culture of these firms and this industry."

As you continue these conversations within your own organization, we welcome your questions. Reach out to EFCG’s Talent & Compensation Practice Leads, Julie Hasiba and Dimitri Milionis, at efcg@efcg.com to engage further.

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About EFCG

Founded in 1990, the Environmental Financial Consulting Group is the premier M&A advisor and management consultant to Architecture, Engineering, and Consulting (AEC) firms. Our mission is to provide a strategic edge to AEC firms to advance the industry. For 35+ years and counting, we have served as a retained advisor to 550+ firms, advised on 240+ M&A transactions, and held over 100 best-in-class conferences and events for AEC leaders. Visit www.efcg.com for more information.