The Connection
December 30, 2025
 
Association News
  
We are thrilled to announce the launch of registration for the NAWIC Leadership Academy! This transformative 8-week virtual course is designed to ignite your growth and potential, equipping women in construction with the essential skills and mindset for career advancement and effective leadership. Two cohorts will begin on January 27 and 28, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this opportunity. Spots are very limited—register NOW to secure your place!
  
Starting on January 13th, the NAWIC Camp Committee will be hosting monthly meetings open to all members on the second Tuesday of the month. These meetings are for chapters/members who currently host a camp or anyone interested in planning a future camp in 2026. Register with the link below or email Kelly Phelan, the committee chair, at kelly@guignardcompany.com.
  
Meet Tammy Crooks, a construction manager with Byrne Construction Services and the November Tough Series article spotlight! When asked what being tough means to her, Tammy said, “I have to be tough when I am challenged, whether by a person or a situation. Grit plus tenacity equals toughness. Rolling with the punches. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and move on. That’s when you know you’re tough.”
  
Join Allison Jencson on Wednesday, January 21st at 3 p.m. (Central) for this start-of-the-year Marketing Committee check in! This meeting is open to all NAWIC members, but is most relevent for marketing committee chairs and co-chairs. 
Education / Training
  
In today’s construction landscape, where workforce shortages, generational shifts, and relentless change are reshaping how projects get done, real leadership isn’t just nice to have; it’s your competitive edge.
 
Join Ange Mathews and the PD&E Committee on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 12 p.m. CT (Central) for this webinar that equips construction professionals with proven leadership practices that elevate performance, build trust, and drive results across the jobsite.
Commerce Bank
  
Are you interested in taking your leadership to the next level? NAWIC’s National Board Director Training offers a comprehensive program designed for aspiring National Board Directors. Attendees will explore governance, strategic planning, and organizational policies, equipping you with the knowledge to serve effectively. Participation is strongly encouraged for candidates pursuing the Director role, as it will significantly enhance your skills and confidence in your position.
 
Dates: January 10 and January 24 at 10 a.m. (Central).
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NAWIC Articles & Publications
We’re thrilled to collaborate with Mediaplanet on their newly released "Women in Skilled Trades" magazine. Women currently make up fewer than 5% of workers in skilled-trade occupations, and their representation in entry-level roles is even lower. With many experienced tradespeople nearing retirement and millions of jobs opening, the industry is facing a major labor gap. Their campaign highlights the unique challenges women encounter while also shining a light on the growing opportunity for long-term, fulfilling careers in skilled trades. Explore how Mediaplanet is empowering this vital community by picking up today’s edition of USA Today or reading with the link below.
 
Make sure to check out NAWIC’s CEO Sheronda Carr's feature in the article.
Source: Future of Business and Tech
NAWIC Member Amy Roosa wrote this article in the light of the murder of 20-year-old welder, Amber Czech. "The risk is real and women are carrying a different burden."
Source: EHS Leaders
 
 
  
The NAWIC Education Foundation (NEF) is offering an instructor-led Construction Bookkeeping Technician (CBT) course from January 15 through February 5, 2026, at 6 p.m. (Eastern). Take advantage of this opportunity to learn construction bookkeeping in an online atmosphere with ample opportunity to ask questions and interact with the instructor and other students.
 
The CBT class is led by PNP Karen Hager, CBT, CDP, CDT, CIS, CIT, ESP.  With over 39 years of construction accounting experience, Karen presents the information in an easily understood format, adding practical knowledge and real-world scenarios. Contact NEF at nawicedu@gmail.com to sign up. NOTE: You must purchase the book, either in print or electronic format, prior to taking the class.