In celebration of Women in Construction Week, LMC TogetHER hosted two impactful events designed to inspire and support women in the trades and leadership roles. Through meaningful discussions and interactive learning experiences, attendees gained valuable insights and tools to navigate their careers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Crafting a Bespoke Career Path: High Tea Learning Session at the LMC Annual Meeting
As part of the Women in Construction Week celebrations, LMC TogetHER also hosted “Crafting a Bespoke Career Path” at the LMC Annual Meeting in Phoenix. This engaging session, led by Amy Warren, VP of Sales & Marketing at International Wood Products and Mollie Elkman, founder and chairperson of the She Built Foundation, combined professional development with the tradition of afternoon tea.
Amy Warren shared her career journey, offering insights on how women can take control of their career paths, set focused goals, and leverage support systems to overcome workplace challenges. Mollie Elkman captivated the audience with the story behind her book, The House That She Built, which began as a project showcasing women in construction and grew into a movement aimed at introducing young girls to the trades. Attendees were also treated to a special book signing with Elkman on the show floor.
Breaking Barriers: Women in Trades and Leadership Take Center Stage at LMC TogetHER Lunch and Learn
At a special Lunch and Learn event, LMC TogetHER welcomed leadership from Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia and Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties for a dynamic fireside chat. The discussion highlighted the challenges and triumphs of women in construction and leadership, as well as the crucial role of affordable housing in empowering women and their communities.
Both Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia and Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties are women-led organizations, demonstrating the impact of female leadership in the nonprofit housing sector. Under their guidance, these chapters have not only built homes but have also created pathways for women to thrive in construction and homeownership. Their leadership teams are committed to breaking barriers in the trades while fostering inclusivity and economic empowerment.
Moderator: Kathryn Fernandez, Chief Development Officer, Habitat Philadelphia
Panelists included:
• Lois Napper, Homeowner Services Manager, Habitat Philadelphia
• Zee Whitmer, Carpentry Fellowship Instructor, Habitat Philadelphia
• Katie Vorce, Chief Operations Officer, Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties
• Brittney Crenshaw, Director of Program Services, Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties
The conversation explored overcoming adversity in male-dominated fields, the significance of mentorship and training, and the importance of building strong professional networks to foster career growth. Attendees also learned how they could support Habitat for Humanity’s mission and advocate for affordable housing, and home repair in their communities.
A Commitment to Elevating Women in the Industry
Through these events, LMC TogetHER reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for women in the lumber and building materials industry. By providing opportunities for learning, networking, and mentorship, LMC TogetHER continues to empower women to break barriers and thrive in their careers.
For more information about the She Build Foundation go to https://www.shebuilt.org/
For more information about the Philadelphia Habitat Chapter go to https://www.habitatphiladelphia.org/
For more information about the Montgomery and Delaware County Chapter go to https://www.habitatmontdelco.org/
For more information about LMC go to www.lmc.net
About LMC
LMC is the leading Forest Products and Building Materials Buying Group in the USA owned by independent lumber and building material dealers. There are over 1,800 LMC dealer locations in the United States. “Building Business Together” is LMC’s philosophy, rooted in a history of working together and standing the test of time since 1935. LMC dealers are united in their purchasing, creating a strong foundation that supports the growth of unique supplier relationships and purchasing opportunities. To learn more about LMC, please visit http://www.lmc.net or follow LMC on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
