Women make up just 11.2% of the construction industry’s workforce. Yet more women than ever are entering the trades, project management, and leadership roles. For generations, women have also served in critical project support positions that keep construction offices running. Whether they wear a hard hat or not, women are essential to every project built and every service delivered.
As the industry celebrated “Women in Construction Week,” it was the perfect time to reflect on the powerful origin story of Women of STEEL—the first women’s membership group within the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). Born from collaboration and determination, this Missouri-based initiative has blazed a trail that’s inspiring women nationwide to pursue and thrive in construction careers.
Being a woman in a historically male-populated industry can be isolating, but the opportunities are vast—and rewarding. “When I first accepted a position as a marketing assistant at S. M. Wilson, I knew nothing about the built environment. I quickly fell in love with this amazing industry that beautifies spaces, creates community, and transforms lives,” wrote Amanda Bohnert in her chapter of “Intention: Deconstructing G.R.I.T.,” part of the Deconstructing GRIT anthology series by Jennifer Bardot. “Through grit and the help of great mentors, I created my own career ladder.”
Bohnert went on to become Chief Marketing Officer at S. M. Wilson—one of just six executives at the firm—and a co-founder of Women of STEEL.
The foundation for the group began through a series of conversations among AGCMO President Len Toenjes, Past AGCMO Board Chairman Ed Twehous, and VP of Advocacy Denise Hasty, who recognized the need to support and connect women in construction.
Soon, Katelyn Twehous-LaVanchy and Amanda Bohnert joined the discussions, followed by AGCMO staff member Charlyce Ruth, and later Amanda Rodgers. “Within months, Denise, Charlyce, Katelyn and I were at a conference table planning our new group,” Bohnert says.
As the women shared stories of adversity, success, motherhood, and balance, a clear intention emerged—to create a supportive community for women in the industry. That conversation became the foundation of Women of STEEL—Seeking to Engage, Elevate & Lead. “Our mission is clear,” Bohnert says. “Women of STEEL provides engagement opportunities for women working within AGCMO member firms and fosters leadership development, personal growth and civic outreach.”
Katelyn Twehous-LaVanchy, Director of Marketing and Technology for Twehous Excavating, says it’s not just about professional development. “It’s about fostering a sense of community and belonging in an industry where women have historically been underrepresented.”
Launching Women of STEEL
Officially launched in 2022, Women of STEEL opened membership to all women within AGCMO, regardless of title or role. The response was extraordinary—more than 500 women connected within the first year.
In February 2023, the inaugural Women of STEEL Conference received glowing feedback: “incredible,” “a fantastic bonding experience,” “a weekend of personal development.” “It was clear the new group had tapped into something important,” Bohnert says. “We acted with intention to create change and Women of STEEL is making a difference—empowering, elevating and leading women in construction.”
The program’s success has since inspired other AGC chapters across the country to launch similar initiatives, expanding its reach and impact. “As the number of women in construction continues to grow, organizations like Women of STEEL are more essential than ever,” says Charlyce Ruth, AGCMO’s Southwest Missouri Manager for Workforce Development. “Women in this industry still face unique challenges—from mentorship and leadership opportunities to representation at the top—and this group helps close those gaps.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
The success of Women of STEEL has also helped inspire new programs for young women considering careers in construction and related fields.
Shannon Grus of State Technical College of Missouri approached AGCMO’s Women of STEEL, along with local NAWIC Chapters and Women in Asphalt, to create an event designed to connect female students with mentors in the industry.
The inaugural Build HER Future event, held in September 2025, brought together 75 students and 30 industry professionals for an evening of mentorship, open discussion, and networking. The event was supported by organizations including AGCMO, Women of STEEL, Women of Asphalt, Emery Sapp & Sons, Sellenriek Construction, Capital Teams, Martin Equipment, HTS Coatings, Hitachi, Scholastic, and the NAWIC Southwest Missouri Chapter #366.
“Our goal was to encourage young women to see themselves in non-traditional careers and connect them with mentors who can help them get there,” Ruth says. “When young women see others thriving in this industry, it changes their perspective — it shows them they belong here.”
The enthusiasm was immediate. “The event was AWESOME,” says Sharon, a 38-year HVAC professional. “I’d love to mentor a student and share what a rewarding career this can be.”
“It was eye-opening and inspiring,” says Emily, a student attendee. “It gave me a better perspective as a woman entering the trades — and I’d love to connect with a mentor.”
By creating space for connection, growth and leadership, Women of STEEL is helping shape a stronger, more inclusive construction industry.
