Celebrating Women in Construction

"The NAWIC was founded in 1953 by 16 women in the construction industry."

Just a couple of short weeks ago, March 1-7, we celebrated National Women in Construction week. This holiday is dedicated to changing the stereotypes that women face when it comes to a career in construction.

Our very own Cassandra Dare is a member of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) – local chapter #77. She extended an invitation to the group to tour the Eugene Civic Alliance Civic Park project this spring. Several women took her up on her offer and gathered together at the new Civic Park on March 11. The ladies were excited to see the fullness of the project and what it means for our community.

“The ladies were happy and nostalgic while visiting the site of the old Civic Stadium,” said Cassandra. “They can’t wait for the new park to be filled with community members, especially the kids.”

The NAWIC was founded in 1953 by 16 women in the construction industry. At the time, there were very few women working in the field. The founders wanted to create a support network for themselves, hoping to encourage other women to join their forces. In 1955 NAWIC gained national charter and now there are 120 chapters with more than 4,000 member all around the country.

According to the NAWIC, there is a shortage of people (men and women) in the construction industry making it ripe with opportunity for women who wish to advance in labor and skill. If you or woman you know is interested a career in construction visit the NAWIC website.
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Cassandra Dare, project engineer, has worked with Chambers Construction for nearly six years. You won’t meet a more civic minded person. When Cassandra is not at work, she is volunteering, fundraising for charitable causes, or working in her yard. She heads up much of Chambers Construction’s community fundraising involvement, such as Bras for a Cause and the holiday giving program at Women’s Space. She also sits on the board of directors for Bags of Love. Cassandra inspires all of us, especially woman in construction.