In Iowa, women make up only 8.7% of the construction workforce—one of the lowest rates in the nation—but those who are here are making an incredible impact. They are leaders, innovators, and essential contributors whose work is transforming the industry and redefining what it means to be a woman in construction. Women bring invaluable strengths to every project team—strong communication and collaboration, a team-focused mindset, attention to detail, a commitment to safety, and an ability to multitask while maintaining efficient, clean, and organized worksites. MBI BuildHer was created to celebrate these strengths, amplify their voices, and inspire the next generation to see construction as a place where everyone—women and men—work together to build an inclusive and thriving industry. 

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The inaugural year of MBI BuildHer marks the beginning of a movement that invited both women and men to engage, learn, and lead together. It’s a space where women can grow in confidence and leadership, and where men can become allies and champions for inclusion—understanding the value of diverse perspectives and how they strengthen teams and outcomes. Through mentorship, sponsorship, and shared learning experiences, MBI BuildHer created opportunities for all participants to develop essential skills, challenge assumptions, and collaborate to make construction a more attractive and welcoming career for women. 

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But MBI BuildHer’s impact goes far beyond personal growth—it’s helping reshape company cultures and redefine the future of Iowa’s construction workforce. When men and women unite around a shared purpose of inclusion and respect, we build stronger teams, improve communication, and enhance project success. Together, we are creating an industry where everyone feels valued, where talent thrives regardless of gender, and where our collective efforts drive innovation and long-term success. The time for change is now—and MBI BuildHer is leading that change, side by side. Join the community for Year 2 right now.