I had the privilege of spending two days with NAWIC Midwest Region for their conference last week at the request of Barb Allen.
We kicked off at Ranken Technical College with a private tour by President Don Pohl and his executive staff. Practical, great education, commitment to student success, plus 100% employability and corporate partners enhancing the learning experience through paid internships. Now, it’s time to increase that 8% women enrollment.
The conference started with a strong day of education and networking. Regional Director Barb Allen and fellow NSAer welcomed the group. Interview with Terry Derringer and Alise Martiny on how to better support tradeswomen. Then, Engineers Without Borders USA. Approximately, 1/4 of population doesn’t have safe drinking water. Almost 1/2 of world with unsafe sanitary. Sustainability and growth which literally makes life possible. And Women in Leadership panel. Sondra Rotty, Jennifer Lyons and Samantha Cook with Emily A. Thorne, CIT as moderator.
Such amazing leaders and professionals who are also women.
The group featured a fun way of discussing the National NAWIC strategic plan by generation. Then, we talked about negotiations and how to #AskOutrageously. Thank you for the great introduction, Eli Knight.
I’ve spoken several times to NAWIC audiences. Construction professionals are among my favorites. In addition to a strong work ethic you must be able to negotiate AND have a sense of humor to survive. One of my biggest joys is finding out what they negotiated after the program. It is unbelievable.
Kelli Paskert, Chief Operating Officer of Skold Companies said, “What an incredible honor to meet Linda Swindling, 2024 National Speakers Hall of Fame Inductee, at the NAWIC Midwest Region Fall Conference. Her message about negotiating for what we want and not being afraid to ask for it really hit home. I feel more confident and empowered to take charge, ask for what I deserve, and push for the best outcomes. Thank you for inspiring us to own our voice and make bold moves.
NAWIC Midwest Region posted “What an incredible experience today at the MWR Fall Conference! Linda Swindling, 2024 National Speakers Hall of Fame Inductee, delivered an empowering talk that left us all inspired and ready to take on the challenge of making the “ask” for what we want. We’re grateful for the opportunity to learn from one of the best!”
In response to the NAWIC post, AI Business Expert Susan Frew said “I saw you speak at NAWIC in Orlando several years ago. I decided that day that I wanted to be a big stage speaker just like you! Thank you for the inspiration!!”