The Women Builders Council (WBC) recently launched a new program to promote dialogue within the industry.
Called Cocktails & Conversation and held at the offices of Anchin, Block & Anchin, the event focused on Inspiring the Next Generation of Women Builders.
With reports that the construction industry is aging out, young professionals are vitally important to the growth and sustainability of New York’s construction industry.
Almost a 100 women attended and had the opportunity to discuss issues that affect women in the building industry.
“It is our goal to inspire young women to pursue careers in the building industry, while supporting women already in our field to strive and reach leadership roles and positions in their companies,” said WBC president Deborah Bradley.
“From mentorship programs to developing leadership toolkits, I am excited to see how WBC can inspire the next generation of women builders, while encouraging our seasoned members to become the new corporate chiefs.”
During the event, panelists led attendees through an open conversation about how to encourage and motivate women to choose and excel in careers within the building industry.
The agenda included: Women Support Groups in Construction Corporations – best practices for empowerment and professional development, New Corporate Chiefs – encouraging women already in the building and construction industry to strive and reach for leadership roles and positions in their field, Next Generation Women at Work – growing and succeeding in the construction industry, Women’s Leadership Toolkit – the tools women need to succeed in their profession and Girls Who Build – encouraging girls and young women to consider careers in the building and construction industry.
“It was a joy to be in the company of so many progressive women at this year’s Women Builders Council Cocktails & Conversation event,” said Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte, chair of the Sub-committee on Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises.
“As a woman who worked in non-traditional fields such as engineering and investment banking, I know firsthand how important powerhouse women’s organizations like the Women Builders Council are, and how imperative it is to have as a structure in which to mentor women.
“Through its services and innovative programming, the Council has been a real champion for their current members and is deeply committed to developing the next generation of women builders.”
“As a young engineer, it’s great to come together with other women in the building industry to talk about what it’s like to work in a field that is predominantly dominated by men,” said Marina Kote of Turner Construction.
“There are unique challenges we all face as women, and it’s nice to come together and talk about how we can get more young girls interested in becoming architects, builders and engineers!”
Following the successful kickoff of the “Cocktails & Conversation” series, WBC is looking forward to developing new initiatives, marketing and member engagement strategies with others devoted to empowering women and their professional presence to help the next generation of women builders.
To learn more about Women Builders Council, visit www.wbcnyc.org
