The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) was founded in 1953 as Women in Construction of Fort Worth, Texas. Seeing that women represented only a fraction of the construction industry workforce, 16 women founded NAWIC to create a support network for others like themselves. Their core purpose is “to strengthen and amplify the success of women in the construction industry.” With a new decade here, women continue to influence and equalize the ratio of men to women in construction and construction consulting.
EDiS Company is proud to support the goals of NAWIC as they lead the initiative in raising awareness of the opportunities available for women in the construction industry and emphasize the growing role of women in the industry as a whole. We’ve put together words of advice from some of our women in construction. Whether in middle school or college, the impact of their words can be equally felt for those looking to make their mark in the trades. Thank you to our women of construction for educating others about the viable careers the construction industry has to offer!
Martha White – Senior Project Manager:
“There is room for all genders and ethnic groups, personality types, and educational background. Be confident in what you do know and don’t worry about asking questions. There are no dumb questions!”
Sara Leon – Project Manager:
“There’s absolutely nothing in this industry that you cannot do. Construction is not one, but hundreds of different roles and activities. The concept of women-driven (or gender-driven) careers is quite antiquated. Careers are driven by people and innovation. Whether you are an introvert or a “people-person”, if you’re excited by the idea of making a lasting impact in the build-environment or creating something that will last longer than a lifetime, then there’s a place for you in the industry (for sure!).”
Amanda Wolf – Project Manager:
“If you’re interested in building something cool that will last a lifetime, construction might be something you want to explore. It’s challenging but also extremely rewarding. Just because it’s a predominantly male dominated field doesn’t mean that you can’t hang with the big dogs. As women we offer a completely unique set of skills that allow us to better manage and communicate with those around us. So instead of getting derailed because it’s a “man’s field,” instead follow your interests and embrace them. Show up, work hard, lean in, and ask questions. We can do it too!”
Eileen Brown – Estimator:
“Women in construction are becoming more common and widely accepted. The fact that it’s mostly men should not deter anyone from pursuing it.”
Jackie DiDomenico – Interiors Project Engineer:
“College is not for everyone. I wish I could go back in time and get into a trade.”
Jacqueline DiSabatino – Project Engineer:
“It’s a very rewarding industry because you can physically see what you have accomplished with all of your hard work.”
Lorin Strawbridge – Building Information Services:
“There is always something that can be brought to the table and diversity is heavily encouraged. Also, as BIM continues to make construction more efficient, it is a great environment to learn and see how you can be a part of it.”
Kristin Caras – Project Engineer:
“It is antiquated to think that women do not have a place in the engineering or construction industry, especially in today’s world. Young girls in school who are deciding on their careers should feel empowered to pursue any career that they choose.”
