Tradeswomen Build Nations New Orleans

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of attending the Tradeswomen Build Nations (#TWBN2024) conference in New Orleans, an event that grows in size and impact every year. With over 5,200 tradeswomen attending from across North America, the energy was electric. It was a powerful reminder of the strength, skill, and solidarity that women bring to the construction industry.

This year, Local 1 sponsored 12 women to attend, including four apprentices. Among them was Lilyanna, a third-year apprentice, who has attended the event for three years now. Reflecting on the experience, she said:

"Attending the NABTU Tradeswomen Build Nations Conference in New Orleans was an uplifting experience that I truly needed as a woman working in the construction industry as a bricklayer. Being surrounded by so many empowering women and their inspiring stories, I always leave feeling fulfilled with the knowledge and strength to excel in my trade. I look forward to continuing this journey and paving the way for more women in the trades!"

Journeyworker Taya Ortiz shared her own heartfelt experience of the conference: 

"Meeting my BAC sisters for the first time was a joyful, safe, and welcoming experience. However, being in a room with 5,000+ union tradeswomen from all walks of life had me feeling exhilarated and motivated. It has had such a lasting impact on me that I will remember and cherish forever."

For Elle Hopkins, a first-year apprentice, the conference left a profound impression: 

"It was such a great experience, and I would encourage every apprentice that can go, to go. Everyone was so welcoming and made things fun and safe. Being in a room with 5,000+ women who are in the trades was very motivating and empowering. I'm so glad I went on this trip and hope to go again next year!"

The conference not only celebrated our accomplishments but also provided a platform for important discussions on recruitment, retention, health, and safety. This year’s theme, “Let the Good Jobs Roll,” captured both the spirit of New Orleans and the importance of creating sustainable, well-paying jobs for women in the trades. The vibrant banner parade through the streets of the city was a highlight for many, as thousands of proud tradeswomen marched together in solidarity.

One of the key topics discussed was the Infrastructure Generation—the workforce created through recent federal policies focused on rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure. It was exciting to see how women are increasingly stepping into these critical roles and shaping the future of our industry.

Lilyanna, Taya, and Elle’s experiences reflect the sense of empowerment and sisterhood that make Tradeswomen Build Nations more than just a conference—it’s a movement.