August 2022

Women In Construction New Mexico
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Mission Statement


“The purpose for which the association is organized is to promote common interests of its members through membership, networking, community outreach, training, and to advance and maintain an enlightened understanding of women in the construction industry.” 



2022 Dates


09/14 Networking

11/18 Christmas Party


Membership

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2022 Membership


Hello Members and Friends of WICNM,

 

We only have a couple of events left for members this year, and I hope you will be able to attend both or one of those events. On September 21st, we will be having a networking event while having some fun bowling! See the flier below and sign up quickly as we have limited space for this one. Our Christmas party is in November, so watch your email and newsletter for more details as we get closer.

 

The Philanthropy Committee conducted a successful school supply drive for Cuidando Los Niños last month. Mia from Cuidando said that they were able to help dozens of families and have also fully stocked their classrooms for the upcoming school year. Thank you to the volunteers and to those who donated to this worthy cause. We’re working on a volunteer day for the center to transform a room into a storage facility for household items given to residents when they move into their own place.

 

The board will be holding a planning session in November, and we welcome your input! If you have any suggestions for next year, please email us and let us know. Thank you for your membership and participation; you make our association strong. We are still a small number away from member #100, so if you’re thinking about becoming a member, now is the best time.

 

 

See you soon! 

 

Jane Jernigan, WICNM President

“Give Back”

We love to highlight our women in construction in our newsletter. If you would like to submit a story of interest or success by you or someone you know, please send an email to WICNM with a picture & story. Please note that this does not include sharing events.

Pave your own road: 8 tips for women in construction

By: Audrey Bullwinkel



As we see more diverse representation in the construction workforce, revolutionary change lies in women supporting and mentoring women. As the saying goes, “Empowered Women Empower Women,” so here are some tips on how we can empower ourselves and pay it forward.

1. Develop confidence

The most important advice I would give myself early in my career is that confidence matters.

It took me about two years of working in construction to gain full confidence in my own voice. Before, there were times when my team would discuss a problem or exchange ideas, and I had a solution pop into my head but kept it to myself believing it wasn’t quite right. Then, 30 minutes later, the team would reach the same conclusion.

Women often believe their ideas are not worthy if they are not perfect, thought out and fully planned. Thanks to socialization, there is a significant confidence gap between women and men. Women are more likely to underestimate their abilities despite all evidence that they are overqualified and overprepared.

Developing confidence is a process, but through your hard work and experience, you can strengthen your belief that you bring value to the table. Don’t hesitate to throw an idea out there. It might just be what your team needs.


2. Break free from stereotypes

Our society still has a lot of implicit biases about men and women. I’ll emphasize the implicit aspect for a reason: it doesn’t have to be an explicit bias to affect you. Implicit (or unconscious and unintentional) bias is fueled by stereotypes in our culture and is often at odds with conscious beliefs and values.

As a woman in a male-dominated field like construction, you often need to be your own best advocate. People (including yourself) will likely make inaccurate assumptions about you that may have real ramifications for your professional life. You can also lead change by not making those same assumptions about other women.

Do not be afraid to point out implicit bias when you see or hear it. For example, I’ve used the line, “You know, I was reading an article the other day about how unconscious bias is ingrained in our culture. I feel like the words used to explain her qualifications would not be used if she were a different gender.” While you may be met with initial resistance, it opens up a conversation and possible eventual acceptance. Countering bias is HARD because most people believe they are ethical and unbiased.

Cultivating awareness about implicit bias is imperative. Talk about it...MORE



The 2022 WICNM Board of Directors
President – Jane Jernigan
Vice President – Gia Espinoza
Secretary – Stephanie Peña
Treasurer – Diane Huerta
Past President – Barb Hatch
Directors:
Kelly Earnest
Angie Ruth
Tracy Libaridian
Sharon Montoya

Board Spotlight: Kelly E


Kelly Earnest WICNM Board Member


I have worked in the construction industry since 1996, 26 years. I went to school to become an electrician and did that for a few years. I then transitioned into selling construction supplies and have been on the sales side of construction since. I am currently a territory manager for Belgard Outdoor Living. We manufacture hardscape products such as pavers, retaining walls, fireplaces, and fire pits. I cover all of New Mexico and Northern Arizona. I work with architects, engineers, dealers, home builders, and landscapers.  


When asked the following questions, she replied:


Did you plan to work in the construction industry?

Yes, I did plan to work in the construction industry. I went to CNM to become an electrician. I liked that I could get out of school in less than 2 years with no debt. I never like school and knew I would never fit into a corporate world.  


What is your favorite thing about working in the construction industry?

I like the creative side of construction and the ability to be creative. I see trades as art and tradespeople as artists. I also enjoy being outside and being on job sites. I have never been very good at sitting still, school was very difficult for me for this reason. I like that I am rarely in an office and have the freedom to move around and be outside. 


Have you faced any challenges as a woman in construction?

As a woman, I have found that in some cases it takes a little longer to gain the trust of clients and customers. There is a saying, “Respect is not given, it is earned”. Well, this is certainly the case for a woman in construction. I believe if you have confidence in who you are and your ability to get things done, respect will follow. 


If you could give advice to a young lady considering her future career, what would you tell her about the construction industry?

There are a lot of opportunities in the construction industry. You can make a great career for yourself without a ton of school debt or a 4-year college degree. As a woman, I feel that it is very important to always be able to support yourself and your family should you choose to have one. Having financial freedom creates your own freedom and ensures your independence.  


Next month, we'll meet Angie Ruth

Get Involved!

Want to be more involved in WICNM?

Join our Marketing Committee

email us at wicnewmexico@gmail.com 

September 21st Bowling Event


Click Here To Register Online

(Sponsors email to register) 

WICNM is Membership Driven
Membership in WICNM is only $50 per year and leaves no doubt to its value and return on investment. As a member, you receive a membership discount on membership meetings, and are able to attend our networking events at no-charge. Just the networking events only are a $45 face value!

The real value of membership is not monetary though, it's about connecting and belonging to a group of women that understand and take pride in the industry of construction just like you. It's what we all have in common whether you're wearing a hard hat in the field or a suit to the office. If you have a hand in the construction industry, this is where you belong.


Why Join?
  • Belong to the only association in New Mexico specifically for Women in the construction industry
  • Support women in our industry
  • Networking evening events
  • Membership Meetings with relevant, informative, and interesting speakers
  • Monthly Newsletter highlighting our association, our members, women in the industry, events, and community support opportunities.
  • Committees - Planning, Marketing & Membership, Philanthropy
  • Opportunities to give to and help women in our community
  • It's FUN!



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