Takeaways from MBA's Event: Icons of the Building Industry - Women Leading the Way

I was inspired by the Icons of the Building Industry panel, where women leaders shared powerful stories of resilience, leadership, and shaping the future of construction.

As a marketing professional in the building industry, I know how important it is to tell authentic stories that inspire trust, attract talent, and shape brand perception. At the recent Icons of the Building Industry panel, hosted by the Professional Women in Building Council of the Master Builders Association of Pierce County, I had the privilege of hearing firsthand from six remarkable women whose voices are shaping the future of construction, design, and development.

The panel, moderated by Carol Pope of Empire Home Loans, featured Lucy Wilson (Reier Construction), Morgan Sly (Rush Residential), Erin Chandler (Chandler Custom Homes), Mary Mader (Moda Design Remodel), and Lexie Brown (Alexandria Construction). Each brought a unique perspective, but together they shared a powerful message: women are not just participants in the industry, they are leaders, innovators, and icons.

Journeys into the industry
Many of the panelists found their way into construction through unexpected paths. Some grew up on jobsites with family connections, while others started in interior design, marketing, or accounting before transitioning into construction and development roles. What unified their stories was resilience. Each faced moments of uncertainty, but by saying yes to opportunities and pushing beyond their comfort zones, they forged careers that now influence projects and companies across the region.

Challenges and change
The women were candid about the hurdles the industry faces. Rising costs, tougher permitting, and stricter energy codes have reshaped the way projects move forward. Technology, from advanced project management software to AI tools, has also redefined workflows. Yet, rather than seeing these as barriers, the panelists described them as opportunities to adapt, innovate, and grow.

Mentorship and leadership
Mentorship was another key theme. Several credited their success to strong mentors (both male and female) who offered guidance and challenged them to grow. Others emphasized the informal mentorship found in peer relationships, like those fostered through Professional Women in Building (PWB). Their leadership styles reflected these influences: collaborative, communicative, and grounded in respect, rather than the top-down shouting that too often defines jobsites.

Confidence in a male-dominated field
Each woman also addressed what it’s like to work in a male-dominated environment. Whether walking into a room as the only woman or being questioned about their expertise, they’ve learned to stand tall, prepare thoroughly, and let results speak louder than assumptions. They stressed the importance of authenticity - showing up as yourself rather than trying to fit into outdated molds.

Advice for the next generation
Perhaps the most inspiring part of the discussion came when they addressed young women considering careers in construction. Their advice was clear: say yes to opportunities, find mentors, build networks, and believe you belong. Programs like Dozer Days, Girl Scout Builds, and outreach to schools are already creating visibility for the next generation, showing girls that construction is a place where they can thrive.

What I took away
For me, the biggest takeaway is that companies who want to win in this industry need to elevate voices like these. The building industry isn’t just about putting up structures. It’s about people, stories, and credibility. The women honored at this event reminded us all that when we amplify diverse perspectives, we strengthen not only our companies but the industry as a whole.

And big shout out to my favorite Tacoma builder, Linda Jadwin of Kitchen Tune Up Washington for winning the Crystal Hammer Award, which honors an exceptional woman who embodies the strength, clarity and impact of a leader in the building industry in Pierce County. Couldn't go to a more deserving person!

The Icons of the Building Industry panel was more than an event. It was a statement: women are here, they are leaders, and they are shaping the future of construction in Pierce County and beyond.

Well done, ladies.

Written by Rusty George, with almost zero help from Artificial Intelligence. Well, maybe he used one little app to check his grammar, but hey - he's only human.

Rusty George leads a branding, website design and marketing agency serving Seattle and Tacoma area construction companies, developers, subcontractors, manufacturers, material fabricators and suppliers. His goal is to help the building industry become more attractive to the skilled workforce of the future. Reach out to us at any time if you ever would like to talk about taking your building company to the next level.