Southeastern Michigan features an active network of organizations, mentorship programs, and local networks specifically built to elevate women in construction—from field tradeswomen to business owners.
Industry Networking Groups
NAWIC Detroit Chapter 183 (National Association of Women in Construction)
The premier regional organization dedicated to empowering women across all areas of the build environment. Members range from general contractors, sub-contractors, and trade business owners to architects, project managers, and legal professionals.
Key Benefits: Monthly educational dinner meetings, safety workshops, professional development programs, and access to national networking conventions.
Community Impact: Administers the NEF (NAWIC Education Foundation) trade scholarships and hosts youth outreach events like Block Kids.
CAM Women in Construction (Construction Association of Michigan)
Operating through the nation's oldest regional construction association based in Bloomfield Hills, CAM offers dedicated networking committees and events for female executives, project leaders, and trade entrepreneurs across Metro Detroit.
Key Benefits: Joint networking events with major regional developers, commercial project bidding boards, and business management seminars.
Mentorship & Workforce Initiatives
Michigan Women in Trades (MiWIT)
Offered through the Michigan Workforce Development Institute, MiWIT runs specialized pre-apprenticeship readiness programs designed specifically for women.
Mentorship Program: Direct 1-on-1 pairing between experienced tradeswomen and emerging professionals to help navigate jobsite dynamics, union politics, and long-term career growth.
Women in Skilled Trades (WIST)
A regional movement focused on expanding career awareness and leadership development for young women entering construction, electrical, HVAC, and manufacturing roles.
Focus: Connects early-career tradeswomen with women currently serving in construction management and business ownership positions.
Business Capital & Entrepreneurship Programs
Michigan Women Forward (MWF)
Business Capital & Coaching
Microloans up to $50,000, 1-on-1 business mentorship, and pitch competitions tailored for women business owners across Detroit.
Detroit Training Center (DTC)
Licensing & Trades Education
Pre-licensure builder classes, heavy equipment certification, and direct connection to local contractor networks.
Great Lakes Women's Business Council (GLWBC)
WBE Certification & Procurement
Helps women-owned contractors secure official WBE (Women's Business Enterprise) status to bid on corporate and government contracts requiring MWBE participation.