Newton, MA – More and more women are finding their way into what used to be considered non-traditional professional roles. As METALCON celebrates its 35th anniversary, it’s safe to say there are a growing number of women in prominent positions throughout the metal construction industry on the tradeshow floor.

METALCON, scheduled for October 7-9 at the Orlando Convention Center in Orlando, FL, will again host a unique event that brings together the women of the metal construction industry.

“FORGE is built around real conversation, genuine connection and the kind of leadership insight you only get from people who’ve walked a similar path,” says Judy Geller, VP Trade Shows, METALCON. “You’ll leave with new connections, fresh perspective and relationships that extend well beyond the event. FORGE welcomes women at every stage – from emerging professionals to industry veterans – because everyone in the room has something to offer and something to gain.”

Rita Goodroe

FORGE is set for 1-5 p.m. Oct. 6, followed by a reception. It kicks off with Keynote Rita Goodroe, presenting Beyond Impressive: Create Your Own Path in Construction and Beyond.

“So many of us are doing everything right,” says Goodroe, a Fortune 500 attorney for 13 years. “We say the right thing, hit the numbers, keep everything running and manage everybody else’s expectations on top of it. And we still don’t feel seen, heard or valued.

“So, when I talk about creating your own path, I mean stop performing for approval and start leading from the truth of who you are. Go after the leadership role instead of waiting to be handed one, because that's the seat where you decide what gets built, who gets hired and how people get treated. And spend your development time on what makes you better at leading as yourself, not on one more certificate proving you belong in the room. I want more women doing that, because the minute you show up as yourself you stop attracting just anything and start attracting the right things.”

Following the keynote address, there will be a panel discussion called, More Than a Seat at the Table: Women Building Influence Across the Industry. “Leaders from across construction, sustainability, workforce development, entrepreneurship and finance come together to share real-world perspectives about navigating leadership, building influence and creating lasting impact in a rapidly evolving industry,” Geller says.

“Many women in construction work in office, management, or professional positions, and women-owned firms make up roughly 13 percent of all construction companies,” says Lee Ann Slattery, Sales Support Manager at ATAS International and current chair of the Metal Construction Association, the first woman to hold the position. “I believe the growth of women’s involvement in the construction industry is due to more awareness and exposure of the potential rewarding and well-paying careers that are available to women. By starting at a trade school or an apprenticeship program, women can learn skills that are high in demand and begin earning a good salary in a short period of time, often with little to no student loan debt. There has been a lot of coverage in the media regarding the need for tradespeople, regardless of their gender and many schools are reincorporating trades classes into their curriculums, with new trade schools opening to keep up with the demand.”

Slattery says FORGE is important to women in the metal construction industry to allow for networking and education in a dedicated and safe space where they can share challenges and successes with other women.

“At FORGE, a woman can meet peers who understand shared experiences and might find a mentor or mentee to help in their career growth,” Slattery says. “The women they meet can become great industry contacts and may even result in new friendships.”

By connecting with current and emerging leaders, FORGE helps participants return to their organizations better connected, more confident and better equipped to lead.

“Events like FORGE create meaningful opportunities for professionals to build relationships, exchange ideas and strengthen their leadership skills in a collaborative environment,” says Jessica Haddock, Marketing Director at S-5!. “Conversations that happen outside formal sessions often lead to mentorship, partnerships and fresh perspectives.”

Successful industries are the ones that have embraced the value of diversity, including women.

“Over the years, I have seen women continue to take on leadership roles across every aspect of the metal construction industry,” says Heidi Ellsworth, CEO/President, The Coffee Shops. “Today, women are leading in manufacturing, contracting, distribution, sales, marketing, operations and executive management. This evolution has been a tremendous benefit to the industry. The balance of strong men and women working together has made our companies stronger, more creative and more successful. Diverse teams bring different perspectives to problem-solving, innovation and leadership, which ultimately drives better business outcomes.

“Looking ahead, I believe the future success of the metal construction industry will be determined by how well we continue to progress. By creating opportunities for everyone and fostering inclusive workplaces, we will attract the next generation of talent, strengthen our workforce and position our industry for continued growth and innovation.”

To register or for more information about FORGE, visit: https://www.metalcon.com/forge/.