Recent statistics show that less than 10% of the construction workforce is made up of women – there is a clear need for the AEC industry to empower women to choose careers in the built environment. Considering the labor shortage, increasing the number of female AEC professionals can not only help fill critical jobs but also help create more inclusive buildings and communities.
A recent report noted that buildings and communities are often designed and planned with little to no input from women. By including more women in the design and planning process, spaces can address critical safety concerns, including better lighting and access to public transit that can help women feel safer in their communities.
The U.S. Green Building Council is committed to a sustainable, prosperous future through LEED, the leading program for green buildings and communities worldwide. Women play an integral part in our work to transform how we build and operate buildings. This is why the USGBC began hosting Women in Green (WIG) events. Since 2012, WIG has connected more than 5,500 women and allies around the world. The series builds a global platform for leadership, innovation, and equity in green building while encouraging more diversity in the AEC industry.
Last year’s local WIG panel was held in downtown Denver and featured local, inspirational women in sustainability. Panelists included Erin James from Jacobs, Mina McCollum from SynEnergy LLC, Amy Jiron from the Colorado Energy Office, Christie-Anne Edie from the U.S. General Services Administration, and Jeannie Renne-Malone from VF Corporation. The event provided opportunities for panelists to engage with audience members, and topics included advocating for yourself, planning for the future, encouraging growth among teams, facing gender bias and pivoting with grace.
This year, USGBC is focused on listening to diverse stories, insights and inspiration from leaders and change-makers across the green building industry. Colorado’s 2025 local Women in Green panel will take place on the morning of Wednesday, April 2 at the Friedhoff Hall, Green Center at the Colorado School of Mines. The event will feature stories from panelists nominated by members of our community, small group discussions and listening sessions.
Attendees will also have an opportunity to tour the newly certified LEED Gold Labriola Innovation Complex, a 37,000-square-foot hub designed for hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. GBCI and AIA continuing education hours are available.
Registration is now open! Click here to reserve your seat. Sponsorship opportunities are also available — contact Lauren Farkas at lfarkas@usgbc.org to learn more.
