Gender differences in job experiences and satisfaction in the forest sector

Abstract

The forest sector faces complex societal demands that require a workforce with the desired composition of competence. It is also a primary, rural, and male-dominated industry based on gendered norms and culture. There are knowledge gaps in how gender influences work-related satisfaction and experiences in the forest sector and how women manage to work in male-dominated workplaces. We fill part of these voids by studying job satisfaction and women’s strategies using the Norwegian forest sector as a case study. By combining surveys and group interviews, we unveil statistical gender differences and individual experiences. We found that while most men and women are satisfied with the social aspects of the workplace, men are more satisfied than women. Women report considerably less gender equality and more use of suppression techniques than men. Thirty-two percent of the women report being sexually harassed during their most important job position. Being exposed to harassment, most women choose not to report it to management, but instead handle the situation themselves. Forestry is a gendered sector, and to change attitudes for improving the work environment and opportunities for all employees, gender-related issues must be raised and handled in a suitable manner by managers and organizations.