Highlighting Women in the Industry
Since 1998, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has held a special week of events, highlighting the critical role that women play in both maintaining and pushing the construction industry forward. March 2nd-6th, known as WIC Week, is dedicated to recognizing the past, present, and future achievements of women, a worker group historically underrepresented in the construction world. WIC Week both celebrates progress while also continuing to lay the foundation to support the next generation of women aspiring to make their career in the industry.
The Tools to Succeed
NAWIC hosted a full week of online events, with industry experts sharing their unique experiences through educational seminars, panel discussions, and setting vision for the future.
“It’s been a significant opportunity for us to spotlight not only the accomplishments, but also the possibilities for women in the industry.” – Rita Brown, President Elect, NAWIC
Meet the Women of Weigand
We asked a few employees about their experiences as women in construction, why they chose this industry, and any advice they had for peers in the profession:
“Originally I went to school for business administration and landed in the construction industry,” says Tara Leto, a Construction Admin and Manager of WCI’s Award-Winning Employee Wellness Program. “I’ve stayed for 27-plus years…I’ve met some great people…I don’t ever get bored!”
For Chloe Hutchins, Weigand’s Senior BIM Coordinator, it was CAD classes in high school that piqued her interest, leading her to pursue a degree in Construction Management at Purdue University. She noted that emphasizing professional connections were key to her growth. “Any advice I would have for women in construction would just be to ask questions and then make those connections. Talk to people in the field; talk to people in the office; really get to know people. It really helps and goes a long way.”
Courtney Plumley, a Safety Coordinator, said that she enjoys the industry for the variety it offers, “I get a mix of being out here in the field and being in the office and every day is different.”
“Part of the reason why I got into construction is all the opportunity,” mentions Olivia Jablonski-Davies, a Project Engineer at Weigand. “There’s tons of stuff you can get into from project management [and] estimating…we’re always growing and expanding.”
Sami Miller, WCI’s IT Support Analyst, highlighted that composure in difficult circumstances is a fundamental part of personal and professional advancement, “My advice for women who want to get into the industry is to just be confident and assertive. It can be a tough industry, but knowing your worth and standing your ground will earn you the respect that you deserve.”
The women of Weigand operate and lead in a wide array of roles throughout the company. Ranging from Project Management, Preconstruction, and Safety to Technology, Accounting, Recruiting, Administration, and Business Development—they are driving innovation and carving a new path in the world of construction as we know it today.
