Recent data shows that the United States workforce is comprised of an astounding 151 million workers. Women comprise nearly half of that figure, occupying various positions across the board. The design and construction industry is one of the most stable and rewarding sectors but that same data shows that only 11% of these jobs are filled by women. 

 

Breaking Barriers: Women in Construction is a new webinar series hosted by AIA Contract Documents. This series will highlight the work of women who are paving the way in the design and construction industry. Each session will feature a premier industry voice, sharing their experiences, lessons learned, and insights that will fuel the next generation of female leaders.

Designed to foster engagement and dialogue about what it means to be a woman in this industry, the series will examine the challenges women face and how organizations can better attract, support and retain women. Our goal is to educate and inspire through highlighting women’s impact and accomplishments and explore how we can create an infrastructure that allows women to flourish in the workplace.  Lastly, we will reflect on what this means for each of us, our organizations and the design and construction industry as a whole.  

In our inaugural session, we feature Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE, Executive Vice President/Chief Executive Officer at The American Institute of Architects. A champion of women in construction, Ms. Woods has held several significant leadership roles, including serving as President & Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) and as Senior Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).