Women and men from across the construction industry came together for the Connecting to Build event, held Tuesday at The Tributary Hub in Madison. The event, organized by empowHER Wisconsin and the Building Trades Council of South Central Wisconsin, celebrated Women in Construction Week and served as an opportunity for professionals to connect, share insights, and promote the role of women in the construction sector.

The event featured remarks from Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, who emphasized the importance of fostering inclusive work environments within traditionally male-dominated industries. "Women continue to make vital contributions to the construction industry, and it’s crucial we support and celebrate their success. Events like these not only highlight their achievements but also encourage more women to pursue careers in this field," said Rhodes-Conway.

The keynote address was delivered by Lauri Rollings, a leading figure in the industry known for her advocacy of gender diversity and inclusion in construction. Rollings shared her personal experiences and insights on navigating the construction sector as a woman and stressed the importance of creating spaces where women can succeed. "When women come together to support one another, we can break down the barriers that have historically existed in this industry. It's about creating networks, sharing resources, and building a future where all voices are heard," said Rollings.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the South Central Wisconsin’s 2025 Ally of the Year Award to Steve Breitlow, who was recognized for his outstanding contributions to improving diversity and inclusion in the construction industry. "Steve's unwavering commitment to supporting women and underrepresented groups in construction has helped shape a more inclusive industry," said one of the organizers.

The event also provided networking opportunities, allowing industry professionals to build relationships, discuss challenges, and identify opportunities for collaboration. Several panel discussions focused on strategies for women in construction to advance their careers, navigate common obstacles, and foster greater equality in the workforce.

Celebrating Women’s Contributions to the Industry

Throughout the event, attendees acknowledged the significant impact women have made in various aspects of the construction industry, from skilled trades to leadership roles. The industry continues to see a growing number of women entering the field, and events like Connecting to Build are instrumental in raising awareness and offering support to these trailblazers.

"Women are making a lasting impact in construction, and events like today’s help us celebrate that success and inspire the next generation of women who will continue to shape the industry," said one participant.

Looking Ahead: Empowering Future Generations

As the construction industry continues to evolve, initiatives like Women in Construction Week and events such as Connecting to Build play an important role in driving inclusivity and providing the resources necessary for women to thrive. The success of the event reflects the ongoing efforts to create more accessible and equitable opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in the trades.

EmpowHER Wisconsin and the Building Trades Council of South Central Wisconsin plan to continue supporting women in construction by offering mentorship, training, and professional development resources. Through these efforts, they aim to pave the way for more women to enter and excel in the construction industry.

About EmpowHER Wisconsin

EmpowHER Wisconsin is a statewide organization dedicated to advancing the role of women in the construction industry by providing networking, mentoring, and educational opportunities. The organization works to eliminate barriers for women in construction and create a more inclusive workforce.

About the Building Trades Council of South Central Wisconsin

The Building Trades Council of South Central Wisconsin is a coalition of labor unions representing skilled trades workers in the construction industry. The council works to improve working conditions, promote safety, and support diversity in the workforce. For more information about women in construction initiatives or to get involved, visit https://dailyreporter.com/2025/03/05/photos-women-in-construction-connect-at-the-tributary-hub/

Originally reported by Daily Reporter Staff.