The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) was founded in 1955 to help empower professional women working in the construction industry. Since then, the organization has become a major force in the industry, advocating for the advancement of women in the construction industry and providing a variety of services and resources to assist women with their careers. As NAWIC gets ready to celebrate the 25th anniversary of WIC Week™, or Women in Construction Week™, it's worth looking back on the organization's history, mission, and impact on the industry.

Introduction to the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is a professional organization devoted to advancing women in the construction industry. Since its inception, NAWIC has grown to more than 5,500 members in over 160 chapters across the United States including Alaska, Hawaii, and Guam. The organization seeks to provide support, resources, and advocacy for women in the construction industry, as well as to promote a safe and equitable construction workplace.

The idea for NAWIC was born in 1953 when a group of 16 female construction industry professionals met to discuss the challenges they faced in their respective fields. Inspired by the civil rights movement, they sought to create an organization that would provide support and resources for women in the construction industry. The group was originally known as Women in Construction of Fort Worth, Texas. It was so successful that it gained its national charter in 1955 and officially became the National Association of Women in Construction.

The first NAWIC WIC Week was held in 1998 and it has since grown and expanded each year. Many local chapters, including the Oklahoma City Chapter (#383) hold WIC Week events, which can include making presentations to high school classes, job site tours, luncheons and virtual events. This year's theme, 'Many Paths, One Mission', celebrates the different journeys women have taken toward the same goal: strengthening and amplifying the success of women in the construction industry. We encourage you to get involved! Click here for more information.

The Impact of NAWIC on the Construction Industry

Since its humble beginnings, NAWIC has had a profound impact on the construction industry. The organization has provided resources and support to thousands of women in the industry, helping them to develop their skills, pursue leadership positions, and advocate for themselves and their peers.

NAWIC has also been a leader in advocating for safety and equality in the construction industry. The organization has worked to raise awareness of the dangers of working in the industry and to ensure that women are treated fairly and equally in the workplace. NAWIC has also been active in promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry, advocating for women-owned businesses and contractors.

Did You Know?

Our very own Kim Howard was one of the 35 members that signed The Oklahoma City Chapter's charter during its inception in 2017! Kim has been a construction insurance subject matter expert for 14 years - earning the CRIS (Construction Risk Insurance Specialist) designation in 2014 through IRMI.