At Hilmerson we are gearing up for the 25th annual Women in Construction (WIC) Week.
Many Paths, One Mission
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.
Why is WIC Week Important?
When I started over 30 years ago women represented about 1% of the construction workforce. In 2022 we were at 10.9% and the forecast for 2023 looks amazing! What is also encouraging is that within the construction industry the gender pay gap is significantly smaller in construction occupations in comparison to the national average of combined occupations. Women are emerging in the industry and making good money!
2007 – Deb Hilmerson – I-35W Mississippi Bridge Project – Minneapolis
2010 – Deb Hilmerson – Life Time Fitness Project – Las Vegas
Women are also taking leadership roles. A few years back I was so excited to walk on to the Allegiant Stadium project in Las Vegas, NV and meet two women Project Superintendents from Mortenson. I’m happy to say, I am no longer the only one with the women’s bathroom key!
I’m proud to be in this industry that is embracing change. I’m grateful for my career in construction and the support given to me from my brothers in the field through the years.
My message to women considering an occupation in construction is that the trades are a lucrative and rewarding field for women and if I can do it, you can do it!
How will we be celebrating at Hilmerson?
I”ll be demonstrating a new line of women’s workwear by BLAKLADER on Tuesday, March 8 at 7 a.m. the Metropolitan Mechanical Contractors office in Eden Prairie, MN. Historically women have had to fit in to men’s-sized construction gear because that’s all that was available but that is changing. Early in my career, I personally had been known to duct tape my gear to keep it on! Now, I’m happy to promote the quality line shaped for women that even includes maternity pants!
Thursday, March 10, I’ll be offering a WIC Toolbox Talk at the new CitizenM Menlo Park Project in San Jose, California as well as demoing the Hilmerson Safety Rail System™.
