National Association of Women in Construction celebrates 25th Anniversary
March 6, 2023 · Community
This March, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is celebrating its 25th anniversary of Women in Construction Week, or WIC Week. Through its more than 115 chapters throughout the country, NAWIC provides its members with construction-related education, support and networking to help advance careers, build technical skills and become better leaders. Any woman in construction is eligible for membership, including tradeswomen, project managers, administrative support, executive leadership and more.
To me, WIC Week is one of the best parts of NAWIC, and I’m humbled to have the opportunity to serve as the National WIC Week Co-Chair. WIC Week was originally created to raise awareness for women in our industry and emphasize their growing opportunities. It’s a time to show who we truly are as an association. Chapters across the country ramp up their efforts in education, community service and construction awareness.
This year’s theme is “Many Paths, One Mission.” How many paths did you take to get to where you are in your career today? Are you what you wanted to be when you grew up? Did you end on the same path that you began? Personally, my path changed often, but I am thankful for where it has taken me in my different career paths, mentors and relationships.
I am a second generation NAWIC member. NAWIC helped me get my very first job in college as part of the clean-up crew on a jobsite in Mobile. NAWIC’s connections helped me transition when a career change was needed from the human services field, and I began work for a specialty electrical subcontractor. NAWIC also led me to GMC more than seven years ago.
There are several NAWIC chapters within GMC’s footprint. Have you heard of NAWIC in your area? Male or female, I encourage you to reach out to the chapter closest to you and join in on their WIC Week activities. NAWIC is a great resource for collaboration among construction professionals. You could meet your next project consultant, contractor, client or newest team member! Through the NAWIC Education Foundation, NAWIC also offers adult certifications in construction and scholarships for undergraduate and trade programs through the NAWIC Founders Scholarship Foundation. Some local chapters also offer scholarship opportunities as well.
To find a local chapter near you and to find out more about NAWIC and WIC week, including national events, visit www.wicweek.org or the NAWIC website.
Becky Harris, CIT, CBT
GMC Accounting Team NAWIC National WIC Week Co-Chair 2023
NAWIC Montgomery Chapter, Immediate Past President
