WIC Week™, or Women in Construction Week™, begins this week, celebrating women as the “Keys to the Future,” and recognizing the strength and knowledge of women and their vital role in shaping the construction industry’s future. Now in its 26th year, WIC Week™ features virtual events all week, along with events being held by local chapters from around the country. Follow #wicweek, #wicweek24, #26yearsofwicweek, and #womeninconstructionweek2024 on social media so you don’t miss a thing.
History of WIC Week™
The NAWIC unofficially began in 1953 by a group of women construction workers hoping to help others break into the industry. They held the first WIC Week in 1998 and have grown and expanded yearly. Many of their 115 local chapters have traditionally held WIC Week events, including making presentations to high school classes, job site tours, luncheons, and virtual events.
Annually, construction firms of all sizes and types are encouraged to participate in WIC Week and show their support for their women employees.
Ways to Get Involved
Encourage women to take construction opportunities — There are several opportunities for women in construction today. You can visit schools or use social media to spread the message.
Join an association for women in construction — if you are a woman in construction, join a local or national association of female construction workers such as NAWIC.
Share ideas with your fellow workers — One of the best ways to grow in the industry is to share ideas with other women in construction and talk about possible innovations.
Check the WIC Week™ calendar to register for this week’s events, all happening virtually, including the “Keys to the Future” and the DE&I panel discussions on Monday, March 4. Join speakers Marjorie Deltoro, NAWIC OSHA Alliance Chair, and Amy Roosa, the founder of “The Safety Rack” as they talk about workplace safety on Thursday, March 7. On Friday, March 8, Ambition Theory and the NAWIC Leadership Academy will present “Leadership in the Industry,” with, “A Call to Action,” wrapping up the week’s events on Saturday, March 9.
Other ways to get involved include:
- WIC Week Toolboxes are your hub for finding more information on the day’s theme, educational resources, highlighted events, and more.
- Find and use a WIC Week graphic.
- Share your photos celebrating WIC Week 2024 here!
- Find a chapter near you and check their website or Facebook page for information on WIC Week events in your area.
Leadership training designed by women in construction for women in construction.
Despite more women entering the workforce, women still face barriers that prevent them from advancing at the same rate as men. NAWIC recognizes the barriers women face and as such, created the NAWIC Leadership Academy, designed to help women embrace their unique leadership style, get the recognition they deserve, and break past the barriers to take on leadership roles. The course includes an 8-week on-demand curriculum, weekly live group coaching, a Leadership Brand 360 Assessment, action planning worksheets, networking, and more.
Women at METALCON
For the last several years, METALCON has recognized the strong role women play in the metal construction industry with female-led panel discussions and dedicated networking events at the annual event. At last year’s event, women gathered alongside inspiring female industry leaders and listened and learned how they are shaping the industry and the inaugural “Metal and Mimosas” breakfast.
Look for more networking and training opportunities at METALCON 2024, scheduled for October 30 – November 1 in Atlanta, Georgia.