Celebrating Women in the Electrical Field: Honoring WIC Week

Woman construction worker wearing a red construction hat and using a drill on a house construction project.

Get ready to celebrate the remarkable women who have helped innovate and grow our electrical infrastructure! The annual Women in Construction Week (WIC Week) shines a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of female workers in the energy sector and offers informative events. Let’s come together to honor and be inspired by the expertise and ingenuity women bring to the table!

What is Women in Construction Week?

WIC Week has a long, rich history, with ties to the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). Originally started in 1953 by 16 women in the industry, the precursor to (NAWIC) was formed to create a support network. Today, 115 chapters across the U.S. offer members education resources, networking opportunities, and guidance to hone their technical and leadership skills. In 1960, WIC Week was introduced as part of the NAWIC and became an official yearly celebration in 1998, taking place the first week of March.

While construction was often considered a male-dominated industry, the landscape is changing. The significant 34% increase in female employees in the field since 2014 is a sign of progress. Thanks to the efforts of organizations like NAWIC and the resilience of boundary-breaking women in the field, organizations and individuals are challenging assumptions and employment trends, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse industry.

WIC Week has a long, rich history, with ties to the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC).

This is How Women are Advancing the Electrical Industry

Women are not just helping, but crucially advancing the electrical sector, a key part of the construction industry. Their contributions in recent years have been significant and inspiring. 

Closing Labor Gaps

Energy demand is accelerating. In 2023, energy consumption jumped 2.2%, a higher margin than the 1.5% increase between 2010 and 2019. Electricity is a crucial aspect of construction infrastructure—from data centers to EV installations, commercial building electrification, and green-focused technology—and an increased electrical labor force is necessary to keep up with production. 

On average, there are 80,000 fillable positions nationwide for electrical professionals annually. To meet demand, the Pacific Northwest could see 16% employment growth in Oregon and 18% in Washington by 2030. As more women gain access to training and resources, they enter the workforce, accelerating productivity and shrinking labor shortages.

Closing Wage Gaps

Wage inequality is a reality across professions. On average, women earn $0.84 for every $1.00 men make. When more women hold leadership roles in the electrical sector, wage inequality narrows. They advocate fair pay and advancement. However, recent data shows that women in the electrical field experience more equitable pay: $0.99 for every dollar versus the national average. 

Creating Opportunities for Future Generations

While the trend of women working in the electrical sector shows growth, there is still a need for a talented female workforce. Women are​​ integral to the electrical industry. The need for experienced electrical professionals will only grow, and women will play a prominent role in energy innovation and expansion. Today’s female leaders in the industry are increasing representation, inspiring more women to enter the field and ensure an advanced energy future. 

Championing Women in the Electrical Industry

The NECA–IBEW partnership supports a highly skilled workforce and female innovators who make impactful contributions to communities across Oregon and Southwest Washington. 

We invite you to join a vibrant community that fosters professional growth and accelerates career advancement. Our members gain access to cutting-edge innovation, specialized training, valuable networking opportunities, and exclusive resources designed to help them thrive in their fields.

The combined knowledge and experience of NECA and IBEW Local 48 create an unmatched resource for anyone looking to thrive in the electrical industry. Get details about membership, benefits, and more.

We invite you to check our Member Spotlights highlighting women in the industry! 

Learn about Kennitha Wade, Electrician & NIETC Instructor, Michelle Thomas, IBEW Local 48 Journeyman, and Bridget Quinn, Workforce Development Coordinator at NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center. 

Join the NECA-IBEW Local 48 community and sign up for our newsletter to receive industry news, resources, and more.

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