Viega Hosts Career Week for Girls™ to Inspire the Next Generation of Women in Construction
As the construction industry strives to address workforce shortages and expand opportunities for women, Viega is investing in the next generation of talent. On June 2, 2026, nine young women visited Viega’s North American headquarters in Broomfield, Colorado, for a day of hands-on career exploration. The event was part of Career Week for Girls™, a workforce development program that introduces young women to skilled trades careers and helps build a more diverse future workforce.
Career Week for Girls™ Is Essential for Career Development
The HOYA Foundation started Career Week for GIRLs TM to encourage more young women to pursue careers in transportation and construction. Why? Because only 10% of the construction workforce is women. That fact carries economic implications and substantial opportunities. Over one week, girls make five stops to engage with women, ask questions and tour work sites. Each company puts together a day-long insight into their company and the industry.
The young women visited Viega on the second day of Career Week for GIRLs. Here, through interactive experiences, mentorship and behind-the-scenes access, participants discovered the possibilities that await in the skilled trades and construction industry, gaining valuable knowledge, and perhaps even finding inspiration for their future careers.
Women Leaders are a Powerful Example at Viega
The experience was made even more meaningful by the example set within Viega itself. With President and CEO Marki Huston at the helm and women serving in the company's top three leadership roles, participants saw firsthand that success in construction isn't defined by gender. It's a powerful reminder that today's curious students can become tomorrow's industry leaders.
The young women attending the event were involved in several activities, including:
- Attending a speakers panel of Viega’s female leaders, including Sarah Simpson, Chief Financial Officer of Viega and a member of the company’s executive leadership team
- Learning about Building Information Modeling (BIM): exploring the evolution of construction technology and the growing role of AI in shaping the industry's future
- Exploring how sustainability and safety are integrated into modern construction, and how thoughtful design, products, and practices can help build a better future.
- Participating in a hands-on pressing challenge and product demonstrations to experience industry-leading technology in action
The Future is Bright for Women in Construction and Skilled Trades
When asked about the experience, one of the participants said, “I realized construction is so much bigger than I thought. There are so many different ways to be part of building something, and there are opportunities for everyone."
As the event ended, Viega North America CCO Dave DeLater reminded the group of girls that while the competition was exciting, the biggest achievement was the confidence and curiosity each student showed throughout the day.
He said, "Today wasn't really about who built the best project. It was about trying something new, working together, and discovering what's possible. Every one of you should leave here knowing you're capable of great things.”
Viega is proud to have been a sponsor and host for the last two years. Viega remains focused on creating opportunities that empower young women to explore careers in construction and the skilled trades. By connecting participants with mentors, technology and real-world experiences, Viega is helping build a future where more women see themselves not only working in the industry but leading it.
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