Ideal Contracting marked Women in Construction Week 2026 by hosting its fifth annual Women in Construction panel discussion at the Union Carpenters and Millwrights Skilled Training Center in Detroit.
The event brought together construction professionals, students and industry organizations to highlight opportunities for women in the skilled trades and construction sector. Several tradeswomen and members of Ideal’s team participated in the panel, sharing their experiences working in the field and discussing career pathways in the industry.
Students from César Chavez Academy, Randolph Career and Technical Center and Chippewa Valley Schools CTE Program attended the session, gaining insight into construction careers and training opportunities.
Michigan Governor Highlights Opportunities for Women in Construction
The event also featured a special visit from Gretchen Whitmer, who delivered remarks encouraging students and participants to explore careers in the construction industry.
During the visit, Whitmer joined students in a hands-on activity where participants built personal toolboxes alongside volunteers from the training center and Ideal Contracting.
The activity aimed to give students practical exposure to construction tools while reinforcing the message that the industry offers accessible career opportunities for future workers.
Industry Partners Support Workforce Development Efforts
The event included participation from several local labor unions and industry organizations that work to expand career pathways in the construction trades. Representatives from Operating Engineers Local 324, Carpenters Union Local 687, IBEW Local 58, NAWIC Detroit, MUST Careers and ACE Mentor Program of Southeast Michigan also engaged with students during the event.
Jennifer Torres, vice president of the construction group at Ideal Contracting, said the annual panel continues to grow and attract strong community participation.
“Ideal Contracting has been orchestrating a Women in Construction panel for five years now, and this year’s was our biggest success yet,” said Jennifer Torres. “It was exciting to welcome students from across Metro Detroit into the Union Carpenters and Millwrights Skilled Training Center and give them an engaging look at what it’s like to be a woman in construction. We were especially honored to have Governor Whitmer provide such a powerful message; it truly capped off an outstanding day.”
Initiative Led by Women of Ideal
The panel discussion was organized by Women of Ideal, an internal group within the company dedicated to supporting and empowering women across the construction industry.
The initiative focuses on mentorship, professional development and outreach programs designed to create more inclusive workplaces while encouraging the next generation to consider careers in construction.
Through events like the annual panel discussion, Ideal Contracting aims to strengthen connections between industry professionals, educators and students while helping address the skilled labor shortage facing the construction sector.
About Ideal Contracting
Founded in Michigan, Ideal Contracting is a family-owned general contractor known for its work across multiple construction sectors, including automotive manufacturing, sports and entertainment, higher education, and energy infrastructure.
The company employs more than 400 union self-perform professionals and over 150 full-time staff, and it is also nationally recognized for its steel erection capabilities on projects across the United States.
Ideal Contracting emphasizes a people-first culture, supported by a strong safety program, workforce development initiatives and ongoing engagement within the Southwest Detroit community.
Originally reported by Ideal Contracting in Construction Dive.
