Empowering Woman in Building Information Modelling (BIM): Overcoming Barriers in Advancing Inclusivity in Russia and Serbia

Abstract

This paper investigates the systematic obstacles restricting women's involvement and leadership in Building Information Modelling (BIM) related occupations in Russia and Serbia. Using a qualitative literature-based approach, the study draws on gender role theory, digital divide theory, and structural inequality theories to combine data from peer-reviewed academic and policy sources. Findings show widespread wage disparities, occupational segregation, underrepresentation in digital leadership, and inadequate mentoring systems. While Serbia shows more informal business routes with less structural assistance, Russia's workforce shows more centralized obstacles with policy immobility. Although BIM, which is part of Construction 4.0, has possibilities for inclusive change, its use in both nations runs the danger of repeating gender inequalities without coordinated institutional change. Strategic advice comprises national policy integration, focused leadership initiatives, inclusive upskilling, and entrepreneurial support structures. Focusing on under-researched post-socialist settings, this work provides to the changing worldwide conversation on gender inclusiveness in STEM.