The Lasting Impact of Professional Women in Building

NAHB’s Professional Women in Building (PWB) Week might be wrapping up, but the mission of celebrating and empowering women in the home building industry continues all year long.

This year’s PWB Week focused on supporting the next generation of women in the industry, celebrating women in the trades, promoting inclusivity and showcasing the incredible work of PWB members and councils.

NAHB spoke with 2024 PWB National Chair Luellen Smith, cofounder and owner of Rhino Wine Cellars & Cooling Systems, and 2024 PWB National Vice Chair Carrie DeWeese, an agent with Chinowth & Cohen Realtors, about the benefits of joining PWB, networking success stories, keeping the spirit of PWB Week alive throughout the years and more.

What was the most unexpected benefit of becoming a PWB member for you?

Smith: The incredible support network that PWB provides. Beyond the professional connections, the genuine friendships and mentorship opportunities have been invaluable. It’s empowering to be part of a group that not only champions women in building but also uplifts them in personal and professional growth.

DeWeese: For me, it was a greater sense of belonging. I had participated in NAHB councils and committees previously with my husband, but when I found PWB, I found a group of women (and men) who were committed to something greater than themselves. The camaraderie and desire to help one another is unmatched anywhere else.

Do you have a PWB networking success story you can share?

Smith: A success story that stands out to me is that of Jennifer Tennyson, our local HBA vice president. When Jennifer first joined the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS), she attended one of our PWB events and immediately recognized the value of networking within the group. By actively engaging with fellow members, Jennifer not only expanded her business but also cultivated lasting relationships that supported her professional growth.

Her commitment to PWB led her to chair our local PWB Council for two consecutive years. She also joined the MBAKS Board of Directors. In 2025, Jennifer will serve as president of our local association. Her journey is an example of how PWB networking can drive business success while fostering a spirit of leadership and giving back to the building industry.

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DeWeese: I am in real estate and was struggling with a very complex transaction that involved several families. I was sharing how concerned I was at one of our PWB networking meetings, and two different women stepped in to help creatively solve the problem, even though they would not financially benefit from it. That’s the kind of "people helping people" spirit that PWB is known for!

What advice would you give to someone considering applying for a PWB Award?

Smith: Don’t hesitate to showcase your achievements and contributions. The application process is a great opportunity to reflect on your journey and the impact you’ve made. Even if you don’t win, the recognition can be incredibly rewarding. For NAHB PWB awards, be sure to submit your application by Oct. 7. 

Learn more: NAHB Industry Awards

DeWeese: Go for it! Submitting your accomplishments and your story is an inspiration to others. Even if you don’t win, you will have made a difference for someone!

How can people keep the spirit of PWB Week going all year long?

Smith: I encourage everyone to stay involved in PWB activities and events throughout the year. Whether it’s participating in local events, tapping into an NAHB PWB Shop Talk or simply staying connected with fellow members, the energy we’ve built during the week can carry forward in powerful ways. 

Learn more: NAHB Programs and Events Idea Bank

DeWeese: Get plugged in. If you don’t have a local PWB Council, consider joining your state’s PWB Council or even as a NAHB PWB member at-large. Tune in to our monthly Shop Talks for inspiration, and look at joining or supporting workforce development in your local schools to inspire the next generation of powerful women. 

Visit the PWB Week toolkit for resources and tips, such as sample social media posts, Shop Talk registration links, marketing materials and more. Subscribe to the NAHBNow blog to stay updated on news content about some of this year’s featured women in building.

NAHB’s Professional Women in Building Week is sponsored by .