By D’Ann Brown, 2025 Professional Women in Building Council President, StrucSure Home Warranty
For women working in the construction and building industry, finding a community of support, professional growth, and opportunities to make a real impact is priceless. The GHBA Professional Women in Building Council (PWB) offers all of this and more, serving as a pivotal resource for women in the construction sector. PWB membership offers an invaluable experience for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike with an array of benefits, especially in the areas of networking, events, philanthropy, and advocacy.
Networking Opportunities
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One of the most significant advantages of PWB membership is the networking opportunities it provides. As a member, you gain access to a dynamic community of female professionals from various sectors within the home building and construction industry. This group of like-minded women offer support, advice, and insight into industry trends, challenges, and innovations. The relationships you build through PWB can help open doors to new business partnerships, career opportunities, and mentorship possibilities.
For example, Heather Gustafson, senior marketing director for Brookfield Residential, needed a remodeling project completed for a former sales center. After meeting Sherry Pruitt, owner of Whodid It Designs, at a PWB event, she hired Sherry to remodel the 2,900 sq. ft. sales office resulting in a new $100,000+ job for Sherry’s company.
PWB also offers a platform to build strong professional connections with individuals who are not just peers, but leaders and decision-makers within the industry. Networking with PWB members often leads to valuable collaborations, opportunities for personal and professional growth, and lasting friendships. This network is not just about making business connections, it’s about building meaningful relationships that extend beyond professional environments.
Events and Education
PWB is known for hosting a variety of events throughout the year tailored to the needs of women in the home building and construction industry. Popular events include the annual Ladies Who Lead Luncheon (coming up on August 28), Construction Contessa competition, and Lunch and Learns on a variety of topics impacting women in the industry today. These events are all designed to provide valuable educational content and opportunities for members to connect.
In addition to professional development, all PWB events are relaxed and welcoming, encouraging members to effortlessly connect with each other, which is an essential element for women working in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Philanthropy and Community Impact
PWB is committed to making a positive impact on the community through philanthropic initiatives. The organization regularly participates in charitable activities, such as collecting supplies for GHBA-supported nonprofit organizations, volunteering for community projects, and providing scholarships for young women pursuing careers in the industry.
Texas State University student Kennedy Marriott was the first recipient of the Lynne Humphries-Professional Women in Building Scholarship in 2024. She will be graduating in Spring 2028 with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Interior Design. Her goal after graduation is to work for a builder as an interior designer.
Through its philanthropic efforts, PWB provides members the opportunity to give back to the community while simultaneously strengthening their professional networks. Volunteering and engaging in charitable events together also allows members to develop leadership skills, build team spirit, and increase their visibility within the community. The organization’s focus on philanthropy encourages women in the industry to become change-makers, using their expertise and influence to create meaningful, lasting change in Houston and beyond.
Advocacy for Women in the Industry
Another significant benefit of PWB membership is the advocacy the organization provides on behalf of women in the building and construction industry. PWB works to raise awareness about the challenges women face in this field and advocates for policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
By being a part of PWB, women in the industry are able to unite as a collective voice, which we know is stronger and more influential than any one individual voice. At this year’s Rally Day, where members of the GHBA travel to the Texas Capitol to meet with legislators and advocate for the industry, we represented the first all-female group. Many of in this group had never attended Rally Day before and felt empowered making their voices heard.
Become A Member Today
Whether you’re looking to expand your career, develop new skills, give back to your community, or advocate for positive change in the industry, PWB offers the resources and connections necessary to succeed. Visit ghba.org/pwb to learn more! You can also select “Join Councils – Individual Memberships” within your Member Hub to join today.