MCCEI Expands Efforts to Build Inclusive Construction Workforce

BALTIMORE — The Maryland Center for Construction Education & Innovation (MCCEI) is strengthening its role as a statewide leader in workforce development and gender equity across the building industry. Led by President Jennifer Dewees, the nonprofit organization is broadening its programs to ensure women have more opportunities to lead and succeed in construction.

MCCEI has made diversity and inclusion a core priority, not an afterthought. Its mission centers on advancing women in the trades, expanding training access, and removing systemic barriers that have historically pushed women away from construction careers. The organization works closely with the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), coordinating initiatives that elevate stories of women in the field and spark interest among young girls.

A centerpiece of its outreach includes Women in Construction Week, an annual statewide campaign highlighting female builders, tradeswomen, engineers, and executives. The week features school visits, panel discussions, mentorship sessions, and career exploration workshops — all designed to showcase real pathways into high-demand construction roles.

Hands-On Training Builds Career Confidence

MCCEI’s mentorship and youth programming are shaped around early exposure. The organization works with NAWIC to support Camp NAWIC, a hands-on experience that introduces middle and high school girls to equipment safety, tool skills, carpentry, welding, and mechanical systems. The goal: show students they belong in the industry long before graduation.

MCCEI has also expanded training options through the Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) grant, which funds customized instruction, peer support networks, and entry-to-apprenticeship pathways for marginalized women — including single mothers, women of color, and career changers.

Leading by Example

Internally, MCCEI has built a leadership structure that reflects the change it promotes. The entire staff — from Dewees to department directors — is composed of women. Female representation continues into governance, with the board of directors maintaining strong participation of women in officer and committee leadership roles.

Dewees and her executive team frequently represent MCCEI on statewide and national stages, sharing strategies to help contractors, business leaders, unions, and educators boost inclusivity in their own workforces.

Growth Plans and Measurable Impact

Looking ahead, MCCEI is targeting measurable results:

• A 25% increase in Maryland Tradeswomen Summit participation within three years
• 10% year-over-year growth in women enrolled in construction apprenticeship programs
• New leadership development resources to advance women into superintendent and project management roles
• Partnerships to tackle issues such as childcare, transportation, and scheduling barriers, which can prevent women from sustaining construction employment

The organization is also expanding digital career-navigation tools, including its Build Your Path platform, giving students and jobseekers a direct way to explore certifications, salary expectations, and hiring demand across the construction sector.

A Long-Term Commitment

With a growing workforce shortage across the state, industry leaders say Maryland cannot reach future construction demand without tapping into the underrepresented talent pool of women and girls. MCCEI’s strategic initiatives aim to ensure that more women not only enter the trades — but thrive within them.

The Daily Record notes that this profile was supported by nominations and recommendations, with editorial review ensuring accuracy.

Originally reported by Daily Record Staff