Envision Equity for WIC Week
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By / Jessica Kirby Women in Construction (WIC) Week is an opportunity to amplify women’s voices and an opportunity for them to show appreciation for one another and all they do to make construction better, says a representative with the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). WIC Week ran March 6-12, and the theme this year was Envision Equity, with a focus on raising awareness about the wide range of opportunities and roles available for women including tradeswomen, project managers, administrative positions, and business ownership. “As we know, they [women] make up a very small population in the construction industry, so we really want to be able to amplify their voices and raise awareness that women are here, they are a valuable asset to every single construction company, and they bring so many great skills,” said Makenzie Plusnick, communications manager with NAWIC, in a press release. “It’s important that construction companies are aware of the importance of adding women to their team.” Every year, the team at SMACNA-Western Washington knocks WIC Week celebrations out of the park, and this year
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Sheet Metal Journal - Western Washington
was no different. Although the presentations were virtual, they were informative, engaging, and just plain fun. The festivities kicked off March 6 with the All State Hot Chocolate 5K Race, including a 15K virtual option. The event brought members together for fun, fitness, and camaraderie. On Monday, the NAWIC Puget Sound Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and special guests gave a free virtual presentation that included a DE&I Panel. Guests included Rita Brown, President/CEO, BCC+; Ally Jencson President/ CEO, Frontline Floor Coverings; Jeanette McArdle Project Executive, Prime Electric; Jennifer Morales, Underwriting Consultant, CNA; Melanie Ryan CEO, MFR Coaching Consulting; Shannon Tymosko, Electrical Apprentice, IBEW Local 105; and Gerri Harris, President, G. Harris Consulting, LLC. There’s no one better to speak on Shattering the Glass Ceiling than Angie Simon, president of Western Allied and immediate past-president of SMACNA National. She gave a virtual presentation on Tuesday that encouraged strength, confidence, and innovation as men and women move forward
