Did you know there’s approximately one million women employed in the construction industry? And yet, women represent only 9 percent of the construction workforce (NAWIC, 2016).

As a leading distributor that serves the construction industry, this number hits home. That’s why ten years ago we started a networking group called Women Influencing Graybar’s Success (WINGS). WINGS was created to give women who work at Graybar an opportunity to connect through networking, professional development and mentoring.

Six of the founding members of WINGS reunite. From left: Retiree Melissa Taylor; Chairman, President and CEO Kathy Mazzarella; retiree Alice Lehnhoff; Director, Strategic Communications Carrie Johnson; Senior Vice President, Human Resources Beverly Propst and St. Louis Director, Human Resources Lisa Kollar.

Last fall, WINGS celebrated its 10th anniversary with the #BeBold Conference in St. Louis, where more than 200 local employees and suppliers were in attendance. Th­e event featured three of the founding members of WINGS — Chairman, President and CEO Kathy Mazzarella; Senior Vice President, Human Resources Beverly Propst and Director, Strategic Communications Carrie Johnson. They spoke about the history of the organization, notable accomplishments and plans for the future of WINGS.

Today, there are 10 chapters of WINGS throughout the company. Each chapter hosts a number of events throughout the year – ranging from networking and mentoring to community outreach.

For years, women at Graybar have been stepping up and challenging the status quo. Whether filling in for those who left to serve in World War II or serving in key leadership positions throughout the company. Graybar is proud to employ so many strong and powerful women. And we are proud to celebrate two important events in March: Women in Construction Week (March 3-9) and International Women’s Day (March 8).