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The National Association of Black Women in Construction (NABWIC) has been around for 30 years, celebrating the legacy of women who have claimed their spot in the male-dominated arena. Founded in Florida in 1991, NABWIC sets out to address and combat challenges Black women encounter in the field as well as work to establish career networks and gain skills and knowledge needed to excel in the industry. The organization also advocates for Black women-owned construction businesses to gain contract opportunities, develop strategic environments that support educational, entrepreneurial, professional, and social network connections while training the next generation of Black women and minorities in the construction industry.
Honoring those truly impacting the construction world, the Detroit chapter of the NABWIC is hosting its 3rd Annual Building Sustainable Communities Recognition Ceremony to celebrate those who advocate for sustainable growth and economic opportunities within their communities or whose example demonstrates excellence, particularly in the skilled-trades and built environment.
“Many members of our community are experiencing a wide range of emotions as a result of the continued lack ofequity in human rights, economic access, and therecent COVID19 Pandemic,” says Tylene Henry, NABWIC’s Detroit chapter president. “NABWIC advocates and develops strategic relationships necessary to connect our members and communities we serve with contract opportunities and critical resources. We are committed to helping to bridge gaps and ensure the next generation ofBlack women and minorities gain access to training in the construction industry.”
For the ceremony, Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence who represents Michigan’s 14th District will be on hand to deliver a virtual message live. Five awards will be presented: the Advocacy Award which recognizes the efforts and contributions of an individual, group or organization towards raising awareness and creating policies that enforce access, accountability and equity for minority-owned businesses in the built environment space; the Career Achievement Award celebrating an outstanding record of excellence and achievement in his or her career; the Ann McNeill Community Leader Award; the Second Chance Award given to an apprentice who is also a returning citizen for outstanding commitment and contributions to their organization and/or workplace; the Youth Rising Star Award. A special award, The Ollie Carson Jr. Cornerstone, will be presented to a community-based advocate who is a fixture in her community.
As Black women have always provided a foundation for their families and their communities, it seems only fitting that they are making their mark on construction. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, women made up just over 10 percent of the construction industry labor force in 2020. For African Americans, both women and men only contribute roughly six percent of those working in the field. While the organization targets Black women, NABWIC membership is open to everyone who advocates for and believes in diversity, equality and inclusion in the construction industry and related fields. The organization is not exclusive to construction employees.
“Anybody can become a member. What we find is typically members that are drawn to our organization are small business owners that are committed to not only building profitable businesses, but also serving the communities in which they do business,” says Henry. “Many of our business owners are concerned with workforce development, they’re concerned with policies that impact small business owners and access to capital.”
Considering themselves the “voice of Black women in construction” the NABWIC enhances its membership with Black women, business owners, general contractors and others across the country to form a bond and a working relationship.
“The value that we bring is bringing forth the desire to have accountability, bringing forth the importance of having policy to support some of these programs that are meant to promote diversity and inclusion. From a legislative standpoint, we are engaging in developing relationships with our elected officials so we can learn more about how policies are impacting our businesses and communities,” says Henry.
The ceremony is Friday, July 16, 6 p.m. at Gene’s Rib Shack in Pontiac. Winners will be announced during the celebration.
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