March 4, 2024

Local NAWIC chapter lines up events

The National Association of Women in Construction says this year's theme for Women in Construction Week, “Keys to the Future,” celebrates the strength and knowledge of women, and the vital role they play in shaping the future of the construction industry.

NAWIC held the first WIC Week in 1998 and it has grown each year since. Many of the association's local chapters hold WIC Week events, which can include making presentations to high school classes, jobsite tours, luncheons and virtual events.

The Puget Sound Chapter of NAWIC is marking the week with events planned over five days.

Today, the local chapter is holding a virtual panel discussion covering diversity, equity and inclusion from women in the trades. The panel includes: Fiona Cleveland, Otis Elevator technician; Dominique Drago, journeyman ironworker; Jodine Hatfield, superintendent, safety professional and member of Pile Drivers Local 196; and Dawn Steinwright, carpenter foreman and UBC member. The panel moderator is Claire Dougherty, project engineer at Build Group on the First Light project in Seattle.

The panel will be live noon-1:30 p.m. Registration is at http://tinyurl.com/NAWIC-2024panel.

A candle craft night has been slotted for 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at Noir Lux Candle Bar in Seattle. Cost is $35-$45. Registration is at http://tinyurl.com/NAWIC-Candle.

On Wednesday, the local chapter will hold a Rosie the Riveter-themed happy hour at Holmberg Mechanical in Bellevue. It will include speakers, a raffle, small business showcase and the chance to donate new and lightly used construction clothing to Rosie's Closet, which benefits women who are new to the workplace, starting over or in need. This event runs 3:30-6:30 p.m. and costs $25-$60. More information is at http://tinyurl.com/NAWIC-2024HappyHour.

Another event, hosted by the local NAWIC chapter and the AGC of Washington, will be held 4-7 p.m. Thursday at Bellingham Golf & Country Club. This event will feature a panel with successful women in various roles within the industry, including architects, engineers, project managers and tradeswomen. There also will be a silent auction with proceeds supporting scholarships for women training in the trades through the Bellingham Technical College Foundation. Cost is $15. Registration is at http://tinyurl.com/NAWIC-Bham.

The week will wrap up on Friday with networking at Ales & Tails in Woodinville. This event will be held 4-6 p.m. and attendees can bring their fully vaccinated dogs. Cost is $35-$45. More information is at http://tinyurl.com/NAWIC-2024Ales.

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• Women at Skanska hold industry's 'keys to the future'
  
• Paving the way: Our next generation of women construction leaders
  
• A myriad of opportunities for women in the trades