NAWIC Annual Conference did not disappoint; nearly 600 attendees network, learn and support each other

The National Association of Women in Construction’s 69^th Annual Conference, brought 596 women from all areas of the construction industry to Houston, Texas, August 14-17. This year the conference took us to Houston, Texas. With breakout sessions, an opening keynote, a closing keynote, job site tours, networking opportunities, and even some DIY sessions, this conference did not disappoint! Attendees could choose from four tracks for speakers, and breakout sessions: education, trades, administration or leadership.

The power of 596 women supporting each other and learning together is absolutely inspiring. Among the 596 attendees, there were 282 first-time attendees and 133 guests, which included male allies. 

A regular sight at Annual Conference is women making new connections or having in-person time with established friends from across the country. There is a constant energetic hum of conversations in hallways and networking areas. Beyond friendships, the business value of networking opportunities is incalculable. Meeting new contractors or subcontractors for project connections, finding someone who specializes in a project category a company is contemplating expanding into, learning about a new software, or making a vendor connection – anything is possible at Annual Conference! 

The Construction Zone featured seating areas as well as trade show booths, making it a great spot to be between sessions. Value-added sessions before the start of the conference included CPR training, along with a study group for individuals wanting to take the NEF (NAWIC Education Foundation) Construction Document Specialist certification test. Representatives from NEF and the NAWIC Education Founders Scholarship (NFSF) were on site in the Construction Zone to answer questions. 

The awards luncheon and gala acknowledged not only NAWIC Chapters, but also contractors and individuals for successes throughout the year. As always, Annual Conference exemplified NAWIC’s Core Purpose to strengthen and amplify the success of women in the construction industry. For more information on NAWIC, feel free to check out our website nawic.org, follow our National Association of Women in Construction Facebook page, or email us [email protected].