[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 54 (Tuesday, March 25, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E248-E249]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




CELEBRATING 27 YEARS OF NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION--
                      BUFFALO NIAGARA CHAPTER 388

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 25, 2025

  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and 
celebrate the National Association of Women in Construction, Buffalo 
Niagara Chapter 388, as they reflect on their remarkable journey since 
being organized in September 2020. Founded by Jillian Penkin, who had 
been an active member of the NAWIC Greater Rochester chapter for over a 
decade before relocating to the Buffalo area, the chapter was quickly 
established with the help of twenty-five other women in the 
construction industry.
  The National Association of Women in Construction began in 1953 as 
``Women in Construction of Fort Worth, TX,'' founded by sixteen women 
working in the construction sector. At a time when women were a 
minority in the industry, the founders sought to create a supportive 
community for women in a male-dominated field. The organization's 
success led to its national charter in 1955, officially becoming the 
National Association of Women in Construction.
  Today, the National Association of Women in Construction has expanded 
to more than 115 chapters across 44 states, the District of Columbia, 
and Guam and continues to grow. Dedicated to professional development, 
education, networking, leadership training, and public service, the 
organization has been a strong advocate for women in the construction 
industry. In 2019, it awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships to 
deserving individuals pursuing education in construction-related 
fields.
  Women in Construction Week aims to spotlight women as a crucial and 
visible force in the construction industry. It also provides a 
meaningful opportunity for local chapters to contribute to their 
communities. During Women in Construction Week, the National 
Association of Women in Construction's thousands of members across the 
country come together to raise awareness about the wide range of 
opportunities for women in construction and emphasize the expanding 
role women play in the field.
  Today, as we celebrate the National Association of Women in 
Construction Chapter 388 for their ongoing efforts to advance women's 
roles in this vital field, let us continue to uphold the vision of its 
founders, ensuring that

[[Page E249]]

the contributions and impact of women builders, professionals, and 
tradeswomen are acknowledged across every facet of the construction 
industry.

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