For our most recent BLDUP Spotlight, we had a chance to chat with several members of NAWIC Boston. The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) offers its members education, support, and networking to help advance their careers in construction, build their technical skills, and become leaders.

BLDUP: Tell us about NAWIC, its mission, and who it serves.

NAWIC Boston: In 1953, 16 working women organized Women in Construction (WIC) of Fort Worth, Texas. These women wanted to create a support organization for women employed in the construction industry, a traditionally male-dominated work field. In 1955, WIC gained its national charter and became the National Association of Women in Construction. NAWIC is an international association of women employed in the construction industry which promotes that industry and supports the advancement of women within it. Since its founding, NAWIC has grown to a membership of 5,000 with more than 120 chapters including NAWIC Boston which was established in 1958. In its almost 75 years of service to its members, NAWIC has advanced the causes of all women in construction whose careers range from the skilled trades to architecture to business ownership. The association is committed to championing women to impact the direction of the construction industry. NAWIC provides education, community and advocacy for women. 

BLDUP: NAWIC and its members certainly understand the importance of DEI in the industry. Why should all companies in the construction space make this a top priority?

NAWIC Boston: For many companies and organizations, future growth will depend upon building a more diverse and inclusive workforce. Studies have shown that diversity improves productivity, fosters innovation, and increases employee engagement. While the construction industry offers good paying jobs and steady career paths, it often relies on little more than good intentions to build diversity in their workforces. NAWIC Boston strives to educate and partner with companies to make DE&I a top priority. 

BLDUP: How is NAWIC working to bring more women into the construction industry? 

NAWIC Boston: To date, NAWIC Boston has raised over $205,000 in scholarships for individuals interested in joining the construction industry. We’ve provided scholarships towards higher education, trade school and apprenticeships. We’re grateful to all the women that have come before us to make this industry what it is today and we look forward to seeing more women join this industry in the future.  

BLDUP: Along with social events, NAWIC hosts a series of educational events over the course of the year. Can you tell us more about these? Are they just for members, who can attend?

NAWIC Boston: Our events are open to all! We enjoy having a diverse group of individuals attend our events. Our educational events aim to provide individuals with relevant topics to help them with their personal life or advance their career. We’ve had events focused on work/life balance, asbestos, time management, construction technology, financial workshops, jobsite tours and more! 

BLDUP: Your 2023-2024 year started in October, can you introduce us to the Board of Directors and outline some goals for this coming year?

NAWIC Boston: Our current board of directors are Melissa Sue Guertin - President, Kelsey Holt - Vice President, Andrea Rizzo - Treasurer, Jen DeAmicis - Secretary, MacKenzie Gerrity - Director, Rachana Kheraj - Director, Lorrayne Romeiro - Director, Devin Cudmore - Director, and Jordan Farren - Director. One of our goals for this year is to further develop our outreach and connections to women in the trades and students. NAWIC Boston is passionate about filling the pipeline with more ambitious women who are looking for a rewarding career in this industry. 

For more information on NAWIC Boston visit their website or sign up for their upcoming educational event.