About NAWIC

The National Association of Women in Construction was established in 1955 in Fort Worth, Texas. NAWIC originally began as Women in Construction of Fort Worth. It was founded in 1953 by 16 women working in the construction industry. Knowing that women represented only a small fraction of the construction industry, the founders organized NAWIC to create a support network that was strongly supported by their bosses and male counterparts. It was so successful that it gained national status a mere two years later.

Currently, NAWIC has a membership of approximately 6,000 with close to 200 chapters in almost every U.S. State and in Canada with International affiliation agreements with NAWIC-Australia, NAWIC-New Zealand, and most recently with South African Women in Construction (SAWiC). Since its national charter in 1955, NAWIC has advanced the causes of all women in construction whose careers range from the skilled trades to business ownership. 

”We were women with electricity in our veins, cement dust on our shoes, sawdust

on our minds … busy, busy, busy, filthy things”

- Alice Ashley - founding member NAWIC

About Portland 54

The Portland Chapter #54 was established in August 1961 by an amazing group of women dedicated to the success of women in their industry, paving the way for future generations of women in the Pacific Northwest. We currently have more than 75 members from all facets of the industry and all parts of the Portland metro. Our members are dedicated employees, managers, and business owners. Chapter members have represented Portland at the regional level and in national association leadership.