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Past President's Messages
Terri L Pasley
2005/2006 Chapter President
Our chapter membership is recognizably growing and the number of prospective members attending our monthly general meeting\program has been overwhelming. Our active approach of sharing the benefits of NAWIC membership is apparent through the level of interest we are experiencing on a regular basis.
For our August Past-President’s meeting, the Past-President’s selected Dress for Success as the recipient of the fundraiser. Dress for Success is a non-profit agency providing programs that help economically disadvantage women acquire jobs, retain their new positions, and succeed in the mainstream workplace. Items donated by the past-presidents were raffled and auctioned. In addition to the money raised, a clothing drive was held. Dana Calonge , thank you for volunteering to deliver the items of clothing. Your truck surely came in handy with all that was donated.
Catherine Blossom is chairing our up-coming community service project. This project will include several small construction projects to enhance the location of Dress for Success. A few of these are: renovate a bathroom to meet ADA requirements, building an ADA compliant dressing room, computer classroom, new ceiling in classroom, and office walls finished and painted.
Eight of us are eagerly awaiting the upcoming National Convention and visiting Kansas City , Missouri . Based on the schedule, there are many interesting seminars and workshops to take advantage of….. and Stedman Graham, keynote speaker, …. WOW!
As always, our Chapter events are listed on the SA NAWIC Website calendar, calendar
Respectfully,
Terri L Pasley
2005/2006 Chapter President
June/July 2006
I can hardly believe we are half way through the NAWIC year. As usual the San Antonio Chapter is busy making strides in bringing awareness to the construction industry in our area. In April, a few of our members visited the NEISD, Academy of Creative Education (ACE) to speak to young women on the benefits of seeking employment in the construction field. This information was well received by the group. A group of us attended Region 7 Forum in Houston . This was an excellent opportunity for members from different chapters to meet, network, and share ideas with other ladies in the industry.
The Builders Exchange hosted an Annual Parking Lot Party and invited NAWIC to set-up a membership booth. The event was successful as we had many women in the industry stop to ask questions and pick-up brochures. As a result of the members effort we have a growing number of new members, which means new ideas, great programs, and networking opportunities!
The weather was hot but that didn’t stop the 72 golfers from participating in our annual golf tournament. The event was held at La Cantera, The Palmer Course. Olga Barnett, Dana Calonge and their committee did a wonderful job in putting this event on. We are pleased to say that sponsorship for this event was on an increase over the past few years. I contribute that our local construction industry being more aware of NAWIC and the benefits it offers.
I hope you all took advantage of your membership voting rights by marking your ballots and sending them in. There are nine of us planning to attend National Convention in September. Two of them first-timers. Kansas City here we come………
As always, our Chapter events are listed on the SA NAWIC Website calendar, www.nawicsatx.org.
Do your part - share NAWIC! Respectfully, Terri L. Pasley
April/May 2006
Watch out---- the SA Chapter is “Rockin”. Our WIC Week, Wine & Cheese Mixer had 23 members and prospective members in attendance. We entertained a mini wine tasting event – NAWIC style. We were excited Construction News attended, watch for the article. Debby LaRocque, Lone Star Roofing & Construction won the Wine & NAWIC 50th Anniversary Wine Glass Raffle.
We are looking forward to participating in the ABC Chili Cook-Off \Safety Excellence\Hunters Extravaganza to be held at the Frontier Club Barn, Freeman Coliseum on March 23rd….our booth “Hard Hats N’ Heels” is sure to get noticed. Move over boys …. we’re moving in.
On March 31st the SA Chot;Verdana, Arial, Helvetica">We are looking forward to participating in the ABC Chili Cook-Off \Safety Excellence\Hunters Extravaganza to be held at the Frontier Club Barn, Freeman Coliseum on March 23rd….our booth “Hard Hats N’ Heels” is sure to get noticed. Move over boys …. we’re moving in.
On March 31st the SA Chapter will represent NAWIC at the Bexar County Women History Month Celebration, “Women – Builders of Communities and Dreams”. We invite the opportunity to share NAWIC with women of other trades.
Respectfully, Terri L. Pasley
March 2006 - Industry Appreciation
Our Chapter members are off and running.
Industry Appreciation Night was a huge success, 61 members and guest attending. Marsha McCombs Shields, P Helvetica" Our Chapter members are off and running.
Industry Appreciation Night was a huge success, 61 members and guest attending. Marsha McCombs Shields, President of McCombs Foundation, spoke on her experiences of working in male dominated industries, including as the team owner, entering the Minnesota Vikings locker room, 61 members and guest attending. Marsha McCombs Shields, P Helvetica">Our Chapter members are off and running.
Industry Appreciation Night was a huge success, 61 members and guest attending. Marsha McCombs Shields, President of McCombs Foundation, spoke on her experiences of working in male dominated industries, including as the team owner, entering the Minnesota Vikings locker room after a game. One experience she does not care to live again!
Kari Wirth along with her committee members are putting the final touches on the Block Kids event set for February 24th. Sky Harbor Elementary is the site for this year’s building competition.
The "Friends of NAWIC" campaign has received a little of $6000 in sponsorships. Way to go Becky!!
To celebrate WIC Week we are having a Wine & Cheese Mixer from 6 - 8 pm. The member that brings the most prospective members will receive a wine basket to include two NAWIC 50th anniversary wine glasses.
Our chapter will represent NAWIC with our “Hard Hats and High Heels” booth and will attempt to place in the ABC Chili Cook-Off \Hunters Extravaganza to be held at the Frontier Club Barn, Freeman Coliseum on March 23rd…. Rumor has it we will be wearing pink hard hats (with the exception of Judy).
Our Chapter events are listed on the SA NAWIC Website calendar.
Do your part - share NAWIC!
Respectfully,
Terri L Pasley
2005/2006 Chapter President
February 2006
The New Year has begun and the SA Chapter members are busy promoting NAWIC. February 1st is our annual Industry Appreciation event and our guest speaker is Marsha McCombs Shields, President of McCombs Foundation. She will speak on "Women in the Workplace- What’s the Big Deal". The chapter is honored to have Marsha as part of our evening presentation to give thanks to those who have given us support in our involvement in NAWIC.
Additionally, we are working on preparing for Block Kids set for February 24th, Kari Wirth is doing an outstanding job chairing this committee. Our "Friends of NAWIC" campaign has been put into action by Becky Wynne, Chairperson. To date, Zachry Construction Corporation has committed to being a Platinum sponsor. Take the opportunity to thank them for their support. As always, we are committed to increasing awareness regarding the benefits NAWIC membership can offer.
As you can see there is plenty of room for you to get involved. Take advantage of your NAWIC membership... attend meetings, join a committee, find your interest and get involved. The cost of belonging is small compared with what you get in return… extremely low rent for the space you occupy in the industry.
Terri Pasley
Chapter President
Annual Planning Report
San Antonio Chapter 11
John Quincy Adams wrote – if your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.
As Chapter President , serving as your leader in an officer capacity for the first time, one of my goal is to inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more. I believe in the mission statement and want to encourage the members of the San Antonio Chapter to take a look at themselves and ask, “what more can I do to promote myself and other women in the construction industry”? We all have strengths and weakness. Let’s build on both! There is so much to learn thru NAWIC. Remember, like anything, you get out of it what you put into it.
I feel the success of a Chapter depends on the involvement of the membership. The leaders must review, analyze, and make changes so that the members want to involve themselves in the NAWIC mission. One of the ways to do this is through speakers. My hope in working with Becky Wynne , Professional Education Chairperson, is to bring educational, informational, inspirational, and motivational speakers to the meetings to help each of us realize the potential we all have. Time is a precious commodity. I want our members to feel their time spent associated with NAWIC is time well invested in them. Both personally and professionally.
I look forward to working with the Officers, Board of Directors, Members, Chairpersons, and potential members to increase awareness of the advantages of being part of the next 50 years with NAWIC has to offer.
Go forward and reap the rewards.
Terri L Pasley
President 2005/2006
September 2005
Judy DeWeese
Chapter President
Well, my year serving as President of the San Antonio Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (SA NAWIC) is almost officially over. My term ends on October 1 when Terri Pasley (Koontz-McCombs Construction) takes over. You will enjoy hearing from Terri each month. She has wonderful enthusiasm and will be great in her new role.
This my last letter to you as President. (I was so proud to use the word “penultimate” last month – yes, of course I had to look it up. What do I say now … “ultimate”? That just doesn’t sound right!) I must say, writing this column has been one of my very favorite things to do. I thank you for dropping in and for giving me positive feedback.
I am so proud of SA NAWIC members! Did I tell you that we had a fundraiser in August to benefit the women of our international affiliate, South African Women in Construction? We raised $730 and that enabled several women from So. Africa to attend NAWIC’s 50th Annual Meeting & Convention, held in Grapevine, Texas in early September. These women have to overcome such tremendous obstacles to simply survive in their country, and now they are tackling construction careers in order to support their families and extended families. They are very inspiring and I’m so glad we were able to help them in this small way.
Speaking of helping, NAWIC’s efforts in support of our members affected by Hurricane Katrina are astounding. The Hurricane simply wiped out at least two of our chapters and severely effected 3 or 4 others. There are still some members in the Gulf Coast from whom we have not yet heard. NAWIC is waving the 2005-06 dues for members in that area. For those who had registered for our convention then were unable to attend because of the Hurricane, we are offering a $500 voucher to be used for the 2006 Convention. But, that certainly isn’t all! In about 4 weeks, members of NAWIC have raised over $20,000 to assist in Hurricane Katrina relief. Trucks loaded with NAWIC donations of supplies, tools, and food, continue to be driven into the areas in need. I know of at least 2 vehicles that have been donated. I am very proud to be a part of this Association. You can help us in this relief effort and get all the information from our national website: www.nawic.org I am ending my term as SA NAWIC President and I am beginning my 2-year term as NAWIC Director of Region 7. My Region consists of all chapters in Oklahoma and Texas (except for El Paso , which is part of Region 8). I am looking forward to the new adventure. We’re changing our Regional website to have a more direct address. When we have it up and running, I’ll let you know and I hope you’ll come visit us there.
The information about SA NAWIC’s October meeting is elsewhere on the website. We’d love to have you attend the meeting (October 5th, at the Petroleum Club, 5:30pm ). Terri is planning informative, educational, and fun meetings. Look for her column in this spot next month.
Take care and ….. thanks for the memories!!!
Judy
August 2005
Time Flies
Somehow, when we’re not looking, time flies! At times, it’s hard to keep up. This is my penultimate [OK, I admit I had to look it up!] letter to you as Chapter President. The NAWIC year is rapidly drawing to a close, and there is still so much to be done. Time has truly flown by for me this year.
NAWIC is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and our local chapter is celebrating its 47th anniversary in August. As chapter president, I have, beautifully framed and hanging in my office, the original chapter charter document. It’s signed by 25 innovative women … women who saw a need and found a solution.
This group of women from San Antonio saw a need for women employed in the area of construction to establish a “network”. They knew they would benefit from meeting other women and sharing information, ideas and problems. They formed a “club” and met regularly over dinner (and, maybe, drinks). They called their “club” Women in Construction.
About the same time, a group of women from Fort Worth were organizing women employed in the construction industry into chapters for a new trade association. The San Antonio group signed on and became the eleventh chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). They no longer had a “club” … rather it was now a professional association. Their new chapter was chartered on August 9, 1958.
Sadly, all of the founding members are gone now, but I can imagine them saying “time flies” if they could see us now. From that day to this, NAWIC’s goals have remained the same: to assist women in finding success in the construction industry. We find, as did our founding sisters, that time flies when you are actively involved in a common goal or project.
Time passes anyway, we might as well make the most of it. I’m very proud that we’ve been making the most of it this year. Time really has flown by as we’ve grown in membership numbers, membership participation, publicity, scholarships, community service and networking. Along the way, we’ve had a lot of fun, too!
In the next few weeks, I’ll be attending national board orientation in Fort Worth, Region 7 Leadership Conference in Waco (more details elsewhere on the website), and then national convention in Grapevine. I’ll try to slow down and remember to enjoy all of this. Time flies ….
I hope to see you at the August meeting: a celebration of 47 years. It will be a casual evening of networking and fun. We’ll have a raffle of gifts donated by our chapter past presidents with the proceeds will benefit the So. African Women in Construction (SAWiC).
Enjoy the moments before they’re gone …. time flies!!
Judy
July 2005
The heartbeat of the chapter is strong!
Have you ever noticed that there are times in an association (or a business) where you kind of pull inward? It’s a time when you simply take care of business (a type of business that may not even be of interest to others), without a lot of outside influence.
In the San Antonio NAWIC chapter, we are at such a time. We just elected our officers who will be installed at our September meeting. Amy O’Neal, incoming president, is working on setting up her committees and events that will occur in the new year. In July, we’ll elect delegates to attend our national convention. The chapter’s Past Presidents are arranging the August meeting. It’s all a type of “in-house” activity.
I think of these times as the “heartbeat” of the chapter. It’s all necessary, but it certainly doesn’t sound too glamorous! We find ways, though, to make it fun! If we can’t have fun ~ then we just won’t do it!! That should be a life-motto. If we can’t have fun …..
Form, function, continuality, are all vital to any association. In order for an organization to establish and pursue goals, certain activities must take place in certain order. Each member has a duty to perform. Yes, EACH MEMBER. Each member is a vital part of our chapter – new or “seasoned”, active or inactive, officer or “just” a member – we each have a part to play. (By the way, the word “just” shouldn’t be in our vocabulary!)
That “part” might be taking minutes, planning a fundraiser, presiding at meetings, or expressing an opinion. They are all vital to the operation of a business or an association. If we all do our part, then the burden isn’t too great on any one member or group.
You’re wondering where I’m going with this (I think I’m wondering, too) …. Well, this is a plea for each of us to do our part in the “heartbeat” of our chapter. What’s your special interest? Will you serve on a committee next year? Will you ATTEND and PARTICIPATE in the business meeting? Will you attend and represent your chapter at national and regional functions? Will you participate in the fundraiser that we’ll have at the August meeting in celebration of the Chapter’s Anniversary?
Will you continue to be a vital part of our “heartbeat”? Even when it doesn’t sound too exciting?
The July meeting will be very informative – procedures that should be taken in the event of a job accident. Also, we’ll elect convention delegates. More information elsewhere on the website.
Stay cool!
NAWIC Membership = Value
I’ve been reflecting lately about my membership in NAWIC. Through good times and not-so-good, why have I continued to be an active member these past 27 years? I first joined because a business associate asked me to … I keep renewing because it is important to me.
The professional benefits available through NAWIC are endless. For instance, we offer industry speakers, legislative/legal updates, career/job leads, mentoring opportunities for the mentor and mentee, connection and interaction with other women in the industry, product information, community/industry service projects, liaison with other industry and professional association. We provide opportunities for educational advancement such as professional education programs, distance learning, and leadership development.
Monthly chapter meetings, national conventions, and regional conferences provide us with opportunities to build a strong communication network for developing and broadening valuable business contacts.
All of these benefits specifically get us closer to our goal: “To enhance the success of women in the construction industry.” That’s the whole thing. That’s a very good deal. That’s why I keep renewing. I have gained far more from my membership than I ever expected and far more than I can ever list.
It’s important to me and I hope I can help you see how it’s important to you. Tell your friends and associates; invite them to a meeting. Invite them to explore new territory and climb new heights ~ we can do it together!
I am looking forward to serving as NAWIC Director, Region 7, for the next two years. It’s a new opportunity to grow with NAWIC. The “job” will be easier with the wonderful support group that I have in the San Antonio chapter. I depend on each of you and I am grateful for your support.
The chapter received some awards at forum: Olga Barnett received her 25-year membership pin; the chapter won 1st Place Regionally for Membership Retention and (drum roll, please) the chapter’s Block Kids contest winner won FIRST PLACE in the Region!! Congratulations to All!
See you at the June 1st meeting (details elsewhere on our website). We’ll be electing chapter officers for 2005-06 and delegates for Annual Convention.
Take care,
Judy
April 2005
ANNUAL FORUM REPORT
As I submit this Forum Report, I would like to take the opportunity to brag on some San Antonio NAWIC members. I am so proud of ALL our members! They never fail the chapter and they are always doing “a little bit more” than expected.
Deborah Schievelbein, AIA, is doing an outstanding job on membership. We receive many inquires from prospective members and Deb is swift and sure in communicating with them. She gives them NAWIC information, invites them to meetings, makes them feel welcome, and, perhaps most importantly, follows up! These prospective members know that NAWIC is right for them and that they have a friend in Deb.
Some of those prospective members come to us as a direct result of the publicity and meeting notices that Celeste Estep, CIT, distributes. I cannot tell you how many different publications that Celeste sends notices to, but we get inquiries as a direct result. Celeste is working closely with the SA Construction News and their editor frequently comes to our meetings and events with camera in hand. We were also very fortunate to have an article, complete with pictures, published in the SA Express News – front page of the Business Section, no less!
Once we get these prospective members to attend a meeting, we need to keep them coming back for more. Amy O’Neal, chapter Vice President, is providing the membership with very interesting, informative, and diverse speakers. That’s always a difficult assignment, getting informative speakers at no charge. But, Amy always comes through!
Diana Burrow is our wonderful website manager. Diana always makes it seem effortless and no request is too big or too silly. The website is a good reflection of her individual efforts. I love to keep checking that little counter in the corner to see how many visits we’ve had. Come see us at www.nawicsat.org.
Catherine Jaquez is our Secretary and she chaired our Block Kids Competition this year. I can’t say enough about Catherine. She has an extremely demanding “paying job” yet she manages to devote a lot of energy and enthusiasm to NAWIC. If she takes on a project, we can rest assured that the project will be a complete success.
Terri Pasley deserves special recognition for her work on both the Christmas Dinner (special guests were armed service members in treatment at a local military hospital) and Industry Appreciation Night. What a great night IAN was! Our keynote speaker was one of the largest developers in town.
And our wonderful Board of Directors: Vice President, Amy O’Neal; Secretary Catherine Jaquez; Treasurer (-extraordinaire), Becky Wynne; Immediate Past President, Deborah Schievelbein; and (outstanding-) Directors, Olga Barnett, Catherine Blossom, Diana Burrow, Celeste Estep, Robbie Nelson, and Terri Pasley. They make it happen!
To paraphrase an old saying, “If it is to be, it’s up to US.” If the San Antonio NAWIC Chapter is to be successful in ALL its endeavors, it’s up to ALL the members. And, ALL the members are certainly coming through!
Take care,
Judy
March 2005
Benefits of Attending Forum
I hope you are considering attending Region 7 Forum in Grapevine, TX, April 22 and 23rd. It will be held at the Hilton DFW Lakes Conference Center (1800 Hwy 26E, Grapevine). Cost is $150 until March 31 ($170 after Mar. 31)
Forum is a meeting of representatives from all chapters in our Region. NAWIC business is conducted and seminars/workshops are held. This promises to be an exceptionally informative Forum:
Speakers
1. Past NAWIC National President, Denise Norberg-Johnson. Her topic "Rising from the Ashes - The Power of the Phoenix" is bound to be compelling. Denise is one of the best and most insightful speakers I've ever heard.
2. Julie Strong, Project Manager TD Industries, speaking on "What it Takes to Work in a Clean Room."
Seminars/Workshops:
1. Current NAWIC National President, Nancy Eaton - "NAWIC From the President's Viewpoint" (If you never had the opportunity to meet President Eaton, you will find her to be interesting and FUN. She is a dynamic leader for our association.)
2. Pat McDonald, from Region 10 - "Creative Collecting Accounts Receivable" (Pat is the owner of a trucking firm and has a great perspective, and I'm anxious to hear how we can be "creative" when collecting A/R!!)
Business: Part of the business will be electing a new Director to serve as Region 7 Director 2005-2007 (and as you know, I'm a candidate for Director and I would certainly welcome your moral support!). Laura Culin has done a wonderful job this term ~ she will remain a strong asset of our association.
There are some optional tours offered Friday: a tour of the Kelly-Moore Paints plant and also a shopping tour. See the attached for further details.
I will book two double rooms for our chapter members. The chapter will pay for the first room and the cost of additional rooms will be split by those staying. I am planning to fly up (to DFW) on Friday mid-morning and return Sunday mid-morning. There is a hotel shuttle from DFW, so we will not need a rental car.
Please let me know if you are intending to go ~ we can coordinate the travel arrangements.
There is one thing I can guarantee: you will enjoy the weekend and you will be completely "hooked on NAWIC" if you attend!
February 2005
The More Things Change …
The More They Stay The Same
I’ve been reminded of that old saying many times lately. “The more things change, the more they stay the same.”
My company is in the process of starting a new project. It is a different type of construction than we normally do and we’re excited (and maybe a little apprehensive) as we begin. We’ve run into new terms or words we normally don’t use. “Mobilization” comes to mind. Of course, “mobilization” is a starting step in any construction project – we just didn’t use that word. I’m forced to become familiar with and use new contract documents and other forms. And we have a whole new group of subcontractors and suppliers. But, it’s really all the same. This project, and all others, begins with an idea or a need, and then a plan is made. Construction begins by scratching dirt and laying a firm foundation. Construction of any building is completed step-by-step. Really, it’s all the same.
NAWIC is celebrating its 50th year in 2005 and the more things change, the more they stay the same.
An association for women employed in the construction industry was an idea a few women had in Fort Worth , Texas in 1955. They began with an idea, drew a plan, established a firm foundation, and built the association step-by-step.
It’s a far different world today than it was in 1955, but, the more things change, the more they stay the same. A network of women in construction is vital to women in our industry. Women need a support group just as our male counterparts do. NAWIC can and does provide contacts, education opportunities, training, and networking we need to establish and advance our careers.
Our “building” is each woman’s career and NAWIC can help each women build her building by first laying a firm foundation, then building the structure step-by-step. That is exactly what those Fort Worth women had in mind. The more things change …….
NAWIC “Women in Construction Week” is coming up and our March meeting is a celebration of our “building”. Industry Appreciation Night, Tuesday, March 2nd, we will especially thank our support group of mentors, employers, co-workers, and family. Bart C. Koontz, Koontz-McCombs, will be our keynote speaker. What an opportunity we’ll have to hear about development opportunities in San Antonio . I hope to see you there! Details elsewhere on the website.
Judy
January 2005
The “Best Kept” Secret
I’m not sure where the quotation marks should go in the title above …. but let me explain …
Celeste Estep is the chairman of the publicity committee and she is doing an extraordinary job! Celeste sends countless notices of our meeting each month and sometime, the notices actually appear in print.
Our friend Richard Erickson at the Construction News puts these notices in the “Association News” section of their paper and often visits our meetings with camera in hand. I hope you saw the wonderful article he wrote last month focusing on our December dinner, which honored our military service personnel.
It was Celeste’s press release that caught the eye of a business writer at the Express-News. You see, he had never heard of NAWIC before! He called Celeste and did an interview with her, saying that he did not know about us. (Hold on … this is bringing me back to the title above.) Celeste told him, jokingly, that we are “the best kept secret”. This is something I hear frequently among NAWIC members. They mean that we are the BEST association that, for some reason, remains a SECRET and we SHOULD NOT be a SECRET! I don’t think the business writer “got” the irony. Oh well.
The business writer interviewed Celeste, Deborah Schievelbein, Amy O’Neal and me. They even took pictures of Amy in the Allen & Allen showroom; the story was published on the front page of the Express-News business section on 12/24. The article turned out to be a great attention-getter (we have received several phone calls since then) and, with publicity like that, we won’t remain a “secret” for long!
Ben McGowan, my husband, spoke at our December meeting. That, too, turned into something different and very special. You see, I thought Ben was just going to say a few things to express our gratitude to the military service personnel. But, he took it several steps further, and also talked about his view of NAWIC.
Some of you asked to have a copy of this talk (and, hey, I’m proud of it!) so I’m sharing my space here and a copy follows this President’s message.
In part because of Ben’s kind words and Celeste’s hard work, the San Antonio Chapter of NAWIC is on its way to losing our “Best Kept Secret” designation!
See you at the February 2nd meeting ~ details elsewhere on the website. Ben’s message follows.
Take care,
Judy
December 2004
Advantages of NAWIC Membership
Are you like me and save newspaper articles to read when you “have time?” I always put dog-eared magazines, circled newspaper articles, or copies of the NAWIC Image aside to read, study, and “borrow” from. Of course, sometime by the time I finally get around to reading them, I’m left to wonder what interested me in the first place!
One particular article, that I clipped from the May 2004, edition of the San Antonio Construction News, I find very pertinent at this time. Steven Schultz, President of the South Texas Chapter of ABC wrote an article entitled “Association Membership – A Wise Business Decision”. His opening was a quote from President Theodore Roosevelt, 1908: “Every man owes a part of his time and money to the business of industry in which he is engaged. No man has a moral right to withhold his support from an organization that is striving to improve conditions within his sphere.”
NAWIC began its new fiscal year on October 1, 2004 and renewal dues were due by October 31, 2004 . To be frank, as I am writing this, I have not received an updated list of renewals from the NAWIC Office. So, I’m not sure who has and who hasn’t renewed.
But let’s talk about the importance of your NAWIC membership – its importance to you, your business, your industry and your community.
NAWIC membership, first and foremost, is an investment in yourself. What you can gain from the networking opportunities is endless. And, if you serve as a chapter officer/director or as an active member of a committee, you increase your networking opportunities. Networking isn’t just meeting and greeting. It’s interacting with others on a frequent basis; getting personally acquainted; working toward a common goal. Networking is gaining business leads or contacts. It’s learning how you can help others climb up the business ladder. Networking is a method to strengthen each rung of that ladder as you climb it yourself!
Until now, my company has built only contract custom homes. Now, for some reason, we’re bidding on a commercial building. Because of my NAWIC membership, we’re seeking sub-bids and information from member’s companies with whom I’ve established a relationship. We may not be the successful bidder, but because of networking, we will be a more informed bidder! And my employer is seeing a benefit from my NAWIC membership.
I know a NAWIC member in another state who has a networking success story. She was working for a GC who hired a small landscape contractor. The GC employee met the owner of the landscaping company at a NAWIC meeting and, through networking, established a more profitable relationship between the two companies. The GC employee and the landscaping contractor soon formed a new company and they are now a multi-million dollar firm with over 50 employees. And, it all started with their NAWIC membership. Your membership in the National Association of Women in Construction is a prudent business decision.
One over-looked advantage of association membership is the opportunity to serve your industry and your community. We are each so fortunate to live and work in a free society. A person has an obligation to “give back”. Though your NAWIC membership, you have an opportunity to actively participate in community and industry service projects. Just in the past couple of months, members of our chapter have participated in “Rebuilding Together” and “Construct-A-Kids Christmas.” We’ve met and interacted with two women from South Africa Women in Construction – and we learned from them!
If you are perhaps thinking of not joining NAWIC, or not renewing your membership, I hope you will think again. Think of what you can gain by your membership and how you can contribute through your membership. Much of it is up to you. As they say, “You only get out of NAWIC what you put into it.” Before you decide that you don’t get enough out of your membership, ask yourself, “Am I putting enough into it?”
See you at the next NAWIC meeting. Don’t forget, it’s not the usual date. It will be on Tuesday, December 7th, at the Petroleum Club. A special Holiday Dinner with your friends, and family, and some very special guests: Veterans of our Armed Forces.
Take care and Happy Holidays!
Judy
A Husband’s View
by Ben McGowan
I would like to offer my view of the National Association of Women in Construction. I have been the husband of a NAWIC member, Judy DeWeese, for 27 years. The following is my personal perception of the association.
For many years now I have attended various functions of NAWIC. This includes three national conventions, several regional forums and many NAWIC Chapter meetings. At most of these functions, someone will explain the mission of the association and its goals. If you log onto Region 7 Internet Home Page you will find the mission statement indicated in one sentence: “To enhance the success of the women in the construction industry.” Now we know that mission statements should be short and to the point and this definitely meets that standard. But I see NAWIC as being so much more.
NAWIC is an association that builds leaders. They know and understand that developing a strong leadership is an ongoing process and takes years. Some of the ways they accomplish this task is by training, educating, coaching, and so very important, mentoring.
I know that Judy has had, and still has, great mentors. One of her first was a great leader herself, Esther Wong. I’m not good at remembering names so forgive me for not listing others but I can tell you this, they are located all over the country.
NAWIC offers informational training sessions at their region forums and national conventions. Of course it is up to the individual member attending these functions to take advantage of such training. And I’m proud to say that Judy has done a good job in doing that. For example, one of the speakers Judy heard at a national convention or regional forum, I don’t remember which, was Jeffrey A. Zink, Ph.D. The topic he spoke on was “Values Based Leadership”. To this day, Judy can tell you about his presentation and how it has made a difference in her life and has added to her leadership skills and abilities. She not only returned with an autographed copy of his book, “Hammer Proof”, but she continues to recommend it to others and would some day like for him to speak at another NAWIC function.
I’m sure every NAWIC member knows the following history but I would like to add my perspective. Women in Construction of Fort Worth began in Fort Worth Texas in 1953 by 16 women whose goal was to create a support network for women working in the construction industry. Only 2 years later, 1955, Women in Construction of Fort Worth became the National Association of Women in Construction. Now, there are more that 200 chapters with a membership of more that 5,800 women.
While this is impressive NAWIC didn’t stop there. Since 1996 NAWIC has signed International Affiliation Agreements with NAWIC-Australia, NAWIC-New Zealand, NAWIC-United Kingdom , and South African Women in Construction.
This information is necessary if people are to understand the importance of NAWIC. In my view, NAWIC is an association that deals in hope. It is easy for members to become kind of passive about just how important NAWIC is and what it has to offer.
Judy and many other NAWIC members were profoundly affected by the South African delegation’s visit to this year’s national convention. NAWIC members in the USA can apply for a passport at any US Post Office and expect to receive an approved passport in just a few weeks. Well, for others it isn’t that easy to obtain permission to visit the USA , nor to find the funding necessary for such a trip.
With the help of NAWIC the South African delegation’s visit was made possible. Once here, the South African delegation described how hard it is for women to receive respect and become independent. But the delegates went on to say they were determined to do so. They were impressed and excited about the opportunities that were available to women in America .
It is my opinion that NAWIC and its membership have gone beyond being just an association but now have become unofficial “Ambassadors of Hope for Women in Construction” all over the world. Please think about this. Members of the South African Women in Construction delegation were given the opportunity and freedom to express their professional and personal feelings, ideas, and goals without fear of violating their country’s policy of free speech while visiting the United States .
Judy and other NAWIC members have talked about the simple needs of the South African women. With just a few tools, they would be able to start their own construction company. Such a statement can make a person take inventory of just what we have and compare it to what others do not have.
NAWIC members may not be able to supply the South African women with all the tools they need but they, maybe without even knowing it, give them ‘HOPE’. With hope, anything is possible. If you give hope and add some tools to the process, you now have given life to another.
The trip that many of the NAWIC members made to China was another great example of being Ambassadors of Hope. Although NAWIC members only saw what the Chinese government had approved in advance, it still provided the NAWIC members the opportunity to see how the other half live. But more important, it provided some Chinese people the hope that some day, they would be free to work and advance as women in the USA do. Now for some this may seem a little over the top. Some might view such a visit as having no value to the NAWIC association. My reply to such an observation would be “Remember what the goal of the 16 women in Fort Worth Texas was, to create a support network for women in the construction industry.”
I need to say something about the San Antonio Chapter before going on. On December 7, 2004 this chapter held its December meeting with two goals in mind: to celebrate the Christmas holidays and to recognize the sacrifices of the men and women who serve this country in the armed forces. A program committee of 3 decided that being the 7th of December they would invite members of the armed forces that were being treated at Brooke Army Medical Center who were undergoing treatment for service-related injuries, including some suffered in Iraq . What many of us heard were tales of how grateful the Iraqi people were of the USA ’s involvement in their country’s struggle for freedom. There was no talk of the politics associated with war, but rather how important freedom is.
It is important for us to remember that the United States is a very young country compared to others. Yet, in less than 250 years we have gained what the leaders of some other countries fear: democracy. Americans know that freedom comes at a great expense. NAWIC is a prime example of freedom of choice. Sixteen Texas women choose to start an association that would assist women in the construction industry. I doubt that any of these women knew in advance that their insight would contribute so much to the world.
Iraqi women are in need of help and in time I can see that NAWIC will play a big part in the reconstruction of Iraq and the education of Iraqi women who desire to work in the construction industry. Other countries will also need NAWIC to provide hope, leadership and training.
NAWIC is a learning association. The San Antonio Chapter understands that the only way NAWIC can continue to grow and improve is by growing its members. It is easy to recognize that the leaders of this Chapter are believers of empowerment. They know that it takes a team of leaders to fulfill all the needs of a growing and productive association. After attending several national conventions and many local meetings I know that NAWIC is a learning, teaching, mentoring, and caring association. I can see it in the faces of the members. Pride is everywhere.
In the San Antonio Chapter, I have seen women who had never made a presentation in their life and now are able and willing to do so at the drop of a hat. One young lady has gone from being a college student to holding a position of respect and authority in her chosen profession. Others have gone from employee to employer. They’re so many stories that I cannot tell all. Consider this, NAWIC is a national/international association that has, and still is producing industry leaders in all areas of the construction family.
NAWIC has been a blessing for Judy and I. When Judy talks about the things that NAWIC is doing or planing to do, I learn. I am so proud of her and all NAWIC members. They aren’t sitting back and waiting for change, they encourage change.
Thanks for letting me tell you just how wonderful and professional your association is.
November, 2004
… It’s up to us …
I was just reading National NAWIC President, Nancy Eaton’s letter in the latest edition of the NAWIC Image. I love Nancy ’s writing method – she writes like she talks and I can hear her voice. To repeat a part of her message here, “ … building upon your current knowledge can only enhance your career. Sharing your knowledge can help others succeed in their chosen fields. …. It is up to us to encourage others to think about a career in construction as their number one choice. Our professional attitude and pride in our industry can make a difference to someone making that choice.”
I’ve been in the construction industry for more years than I want to count, and sometime I think I’ve seen it all. But I learn so much about my industry from my involvement in NAWIC. From my NAWIC associates, I learn specialized ways to do my job. I learn methods, shortcuts and other things that make me slap myself up side the head. That’s when I realize I haven’t seen it all and I certainly don’t know how to do it all. Construction is a continuous learning experience, no matter what area of the business you’re in.
I decided this weekend that it was time to update some of my skills and I’m committed to successfully completing the NAWIC Education Foundation (NEF) “Construction Industry Technician Course (CIT).” Some of our members took the exam a few years ago and they now proudly have “CIT” after their name. I want that too, but most of all I want the knowledge that goes along with “CIT”. NEF has several home-study courses that are worth looking into. Check out their website at www.nawiceducation.org for more information.
Anyway, back to Nancy ’s message … “Think about the impact you and those around you can make on others contemplating their career choices.” Imagine the pride you will have in helping someone make a career choice or in helping them advance in their career by sharing your knowledge with them. That’s what NAWIC is all about. We’re not a social club (although I love the social part of the association). No, we’re a professional trade association and we are here to get ahead and to help others advance. Think about the impact you can have through NAWIC!
See you at the next meeting (details of the meeting are elsewhere on our website). Let’s make a difference!
Region 7 APC - 2004
REGION 7 ANNUAL PLANNING CONFERENCE
ANNUAL REPORT
SAN ANTONIO TEXAS CHAPTER #11
Judy DeWeese, Chapter President 2004-2005
Five of our members were able to attend the 49th NAWIC Annual Meeting and Convention in New York City . What an exciting and emotional experience! We had so much pride in Region 7’s own Luci Roberts as she presided over “her” convention.
Convention serves as a wonderful transition from one chapter administration to another. It helps provide us with energy and new ideas to put in place in our “new” year. Our chapter is very fortunate to have such strong leadership and, for many years, all administrations have worked together on programs and projects that continue well into the next year. The transition is seamless and benefits all our members.
On a sunny Saturday in early summer, members of our chapter met to review and revise our existing Strategic Plan. We established our goals and spent some time discussing how those goals could be met in one year, four years (when we turn 50!), and ten years. The activities of our committees and the Board of Directors, will follow the Strategic Plan. We’ll WORK THE PLAN as we GET BACK TO BASICS.
We intend to have two membership drives: one in October 2004, and one in May 2005.
Industry Appreciation Night will be held in March rather than in May. (We had a hard time competing with the Spurs post-season play! And, since the Spurs wouldn’t shift their games to March …) Our Industry Appreciation Night will coincide with Women in Construction Week. Nice coincidence. We want all of our community to know about the “best kept secret”.
Our Strategic Plan calls for us to find more ways to do business with each other. To meet this goal, we will have two members make a 3-minute business presentation at each meeting. This way, we’ll learn if we can offer a bid, sell an item, or purchase a service.
Also, we’ll share information. In the “Did You Know” portion of our meeting, we’ll share some little fact about our industry that we just learned. Probably, that little fact will also be news to other members.
We’re looking forward to our community and industry service projects, Block Kids competition, fundraisers, and all the other activities that allow us to grow as individuals and as members of our San Antonio Chapter of NAWIC.
Judy
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