The construction industry has long been male-dominated, but women are making their mark, breaking barriers, and proving their expertise in the field. 

One organization leading the charge in empowering women in construction is the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). As the industry continues to evolve, NAWIC’s Women in Construction (WIC) Week has become a key event in recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women in the sector.

Kelly Aust, a seasoned project manager with Skanska and the current president of NAWIC, has firsthand experience with the challenges and opportunities women face in construction. Fresh from completing a major $65 million project at Portland State University, she is now preparing for the highly anticipated WIC Week, which will take place from March 2-8, 2025. 

The week-long series of live and virtual events will highlight the growing role of women in construction and provide a platform to inspire the next generation of female leaders in the field.

Aust’s journey into construction was not conventional. She discovered NAWIC’s Portland chapter in 2013, and WIC Week opened her eyes to the possibilities within the industry. “WIC Week introduced me to a world of possibilities in construction,” Aust recalls. “Coming from a non-construction background, I realized that women have so much to contribute to this field, and there are countless opportunities waiting to be explored.”

Despite making up only 11% of the construction workforce, women are increasingly finding their place in the industry. WIC Week aims to increase awareness about the variety of roles available to women, from project management to engineering, architecture, and skilled trades. It also offers a moment to pause and reflect on the progress made. Aust believes this event is more than just a celebration- it’s an opportunity to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workforce.

“In construction, it’s easy to focus solely on the task at hand,” she says. “WIC Week offers an opportunity to step back, celebrate our achievements, and consider where the industry is headed.” By creating visibility for female professionals and their accomplishments, WIC Week encourages more women to explore careers in construction while advocating for changes that support their success.

Diversity is a powerful force for progress, and Aust emphasizes its critical role in shaping the industry’s future. Construction has historically been resistant to change, but she sees WIC Week as a reminder that diverse teams bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. 

“It’s surprising that diversity still faces resistance in an industry as dynamic and interconnected as construction,” Aust says. “Incorporating diverse perspectives leads to more creative solutions, and that benefits everyone.”

One of the most notable shifts in the industry, driven in part by the increasing presence of women, is a greater focus on work-life balance. Policies such as parental leave and flexible work arrangements are gaining traction. “Many men in the industry now push for parental leave and flexible work options, and they wouldn’t have those expectations if women hadn’t led the way,” Aust adds.

The theme for WIC Week 2025, “Together We Rise,” is a call to action for the entire industry. Aust stresses that the movement isn’t just about supporting women- it’s about creating a more inclusive environment that benefits everyone. “Construction is an industry that thrives on diversity, and we all benefit when we create a culture that works for everyone,” she says.

Reflecting on past WIC Week events, Aust recalls several moments that encapsulated the spirit of the movement. In Portland, the annual fundraiser “A Night with NAWIC” became a powerful platform for sharing the success stories of women in construction. 

“It was amazing to hear how many women had overcome challenges and broken barriers in the industry. The night was filled with pride, inspiration, and hope for the future,” she says. Another highlight was a virtual panel hosted by NAWIC’s Palmetto, SC chapter, featuring women from NAWIC UK. The discussion provided a global perspective on the shared struggles and triumphs of women in the industry.

As WIC Week 2025 approaches, Aust urges both men and women in construction to get involved. “Together, we can create a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future for construction,” she says. By participating in events, sharing stories, and supporting women in the field, the industry can continue to evolve and thrive.

Founded in 1953, NAWIC has been a beacon of support for women in construction for over seven decades. What started as a small group of 16 women in Fort Worth, Texas, has grown into a nationwide network of 119 chapters. Through professional development programs, networking opportunities, and leadership training, NAWIC continues to push for greater inclusion and representation.

WIC Week is just one of the many initiatives NAWIC leads to promote diversity in construction. Through partnerships with organizations like Construction Angels and outreach programs designed to inspire young women to explore careers in construction, NAWIC is committed to shaping a future where women are not just present in the industry but are thriving and leading.