Stephanie Hun Elected President of Canadian Construction Women: A Step Forward for Women in the Industry
Canadian Construction Women (CCW), an organization dedicated to supporting women in the construction sector, has recently elected Stephanie Hun as its new president for a two-year term. Hun steps into this pivotal role after her tenure as vice-president, bringing a wealth of experience and passion for the industry. Her leadership is expected to steer CCW toward greater inclusivity and professional development opportunities for women in construction.
Background and Role at Flatiron Dragados Canada Inc.
Alongside her responsibilities at CCW, Stephanie Hun serves as the Director of Business Development at Flatiron Dragados Canada Inc., a prominent civil engineering and construction company operating in both Canada and the United States. Her dual role positions her as an influential figure, not only in CCW but also in the broader construction landscape. Hun’s professional background equips her with insights and expertise that she intends to leverage for the betterment of women in the industry.
CCW: A Support Network for Women in Construction
Founded in 1981, CCW was established as a supportive community for women working in the construction industry. While the organization’s name highlights its focus on women, Hun clarifies that it is open to all, welcoming male allies and individuals at various stages of their careers. "Most of our members are in the early or middle parts of their careers," she explains, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to fostering a diverse community.
Despite its name, CCW primarily operates within British Columbia, although Hun expresses aspirations for the organization to expand across Canada in the future.
Programs and Initiatives
CCW offers an array of programs designed to facilitate learning, networking, and mentorship opportunities. One of the standout features of the organization is its member site visits, which are led by female construction superintendents and project managers. These visits provide practical insights into the industry, helping members to forge connections and learn from their peers.
Hun mentions the organization’s commitment to creating new committees focused on governance and networking events such as golfing. “We want to help women find out what the opportunities in construction are, to help them find their way in the industry,” she states, highlighting the organization’s emphasis on professional development.
Partnering for Progress
CCW has built partnerships with other significant construction associations in British Columbia, notably the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association and the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA). These collaborations enhance the resources available to CCW members and extend the organization’s influence within the industry.
One notable event organized in conjunction with VRCA is the LEAP: Women in Construction Conference, which aims to inspire and empower women in the field. The event takes place on International Women’s Day and has garnered significant traction, selling out for two consecutive years and attracting over 320 women, including male allies.
Addressing Challenges in the Industry
While CCW celebrates successes, it also recognizes challenges faced by women in the construction sector. Erica Commons, a director and treasurer of CCW, points out that many women leave the industry due to bullying and harassment. Commons, who works as the Manager of Risk and Compliance at BC Infrastructure Benefits (BCIB), emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive and respectful job sites as a means of retaining women in construction.
BCIB has launched initiatives aimed at recruiting and retaining women workers, striving to create a supportive environment where women can thrive. By employing priority hiring practices for underrepresented workers, BCIB opens doors for those who may have previously faced barriers.
A Vision for the Future
As CCW continues to grow under Hun’s leadership, the organization strives to remain a beacon of hope and opportunity for women in construction. The newly elected board, including vice-president Shelby Clerihue and co-directors of programs Julia Law, Natasha Jeshani, and Kathleen Morrison, share this vision and are committed to fostering an inclusive community.
With an active agenda of events and initiatives planned for the coming years, CCW is determined to impact the construction industry positively. Hun and her team aim to ensure that women have the resources, connections, and support needed to thrive in their careers, paving the way for future generations of female construction leaders.
In conclusion, Stephanie Hun’s presidency marks an exciting new chapter for Canadian Construction Women, one that promises to enhance the representation and experiences of women in the construction industry across Canada.
