Anastasia Barnes
This is HP’s third annual Women In Construction supplement. Our team is proud to produce this supplement every year, as we get the opportunity to learn about and share the stories of all of the women who are shaping the architecture, engineering and construction industry.
Anne Pfleger, 2021 NAWIC president, states it perfectly in her article on page 4. She says, “Construction is the only industry that encompasses almost every professional discipline. Literally every career sector is available to you: trades, project management, administration, law, finance, insurance…the list is virtually endless.” That’s what you’ll find in the next 24 pages: a diverse group of women that make up the design/build community in New England.
On page 5, you’ll learn about Jeysi Zuniga of Synergy Contracting, who I had the pleasure of meeting at a diversity and inclusion panel a few years ago. I am so glad we had the chance to share her insights!
I found a really interesting article, written by Lior Zitzman, that breaks down the role of women in construction. The article summarizes that, “although women are still underrepresented, they are making significant progress as leaders in the industry. A substantial portion of women executives and construction managers entered those roles in the last five years, suggesting that companies are more recently promoting women to leadership roles. Furthermore, companies and associations are increasing their efforts to promote women in their organizations and educate young women about the benefits of working in the industry.” Read the entire article at https://www.bigrentz.com/blog/women-construction.
I have put together a list of organizations that are worthy of checking out if you’re new to the AEC community and looking to connect with other women. Most of these are national organizations with local chapters: the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC.org), the Society of Women Engineers (SWE.org), and Professional Women in Construction (PWCUSA.org). Select chapters of The American Institute of Architects (AIA.org) also offer women in design groups.
Here in New England, Building Pathways (www.bulidingpathwaysboston.org and www.buildconnecticut.com) not only promotes women in the trades, but minorities and veterans as well. Check out page 6 to learn about the 15th Annual Women In Construction Conference, a nonprofit that operates on both coasts!
Lastly, I would like to highlight Marion Barnes, my grandmother, and one of three editors that work for this publication. She and her husband, Ralph (my grandfather), have been a part of High-Profile’s editorial team since HP started in 1997. They (along with our third editor, Emily Langner) put a lot of time and heart into the March issue and this WIC supplement in a short amount of time.
Speaking of my grandmother, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the influence she has had on me. This issue highlights all of the glorious women in the AEC industry, but I would like to shine a spotlight on the matriarch of the family and the woman who continues to be my role model and an example of a strong woman and leader.
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Enjoy the read,
Anastasia Barnes
