The Women in Construction Management student chapter at Purdue University (WICM) recently hosted its first BoilerBuiltHER Summit. The one-day professional conference connected students with industry leaders on campus to focus on career pathways and leadership.
The student-organized event featured panel discussions, networking sessions, and professional development programming. Representatives from Thompson Thrift, Lennar, Helix, Fluor, JE Dunn Construction, and Holder Construction served as panelists.
"Among the most meaningful things was watching the young women take full ownership of the process-planning, managing facilities, and collaborating professionally with Purdue University offices, industry partners, and fellow students entirely on their own," Harley Barta, WICM's club advisor, said. "Equally important was their commitment to keeping their original vision intact: to inspire, support, and celebrate women in the construction industry."
The summit focused on leadership and career pathways to show students from the Bowen School of Construction how to make their own success in the field.
"The message was clear: their voices matter, their contributions are valuable, and the unique perspectives they bring to the table are assets," Barta said.
Guest speakers Matt Jones and Kia Weatherspoon delivered presentations on leadership, advocacy, and navigating the industry. Purdue Polytechnic dean Daniel Castro and Bowen School of Construction head Mark Zimpfer also attended the summit.
The WICM executive board managed the event's execution. The board members include Emily Amato, Lizzy Nakashima, Amazone Herbreteau, Sasha Stahl, Marley Stonebraker, Olivia Minier, and Jacie Arnold.
Barta viewed the summit as a blueprint for ongoing mentorship within the program.
"True leadership is about reaching forward with one hand toward our own growth and advancement, while extending the other hand back to uplift and elevate the next generation of women," Barta said.
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