Initially hesitant, Devynn Thompson entered the trades through her husband's ambition to obtain his contractor's license. Despite the uncertainties of starting their own business, she trusted in his vision and took the leap, discovering immense fulfillment and gratitude for the skilled individuals in the industry.

Erica Sullivan started her plumbing business 15 years ago, after previously running a marketing company. She decided to pursue plumbing because it always has clients and is a great industry. Now, Erica has 24 employees and provides multiple services.

Kate Ollinger left the US Air Force and stumbled upon the plumbing industry, where she found a passion for bringing clean water and comfortable heating to people. She believes that manufacturers can help reduce the physical demands of the job for women. Kate advises women to find a great plumbing company or manufacturer willing to train them.

After relocating to Maryland, Deidra McElroy gained valuable experience in sales and customer service at State Farm before transitioning to Magnolia in 2008. Starting as a billing specialist, she seized opportunities to learn various aspects of the industry and obtained licenses while pursuing a bachelor's degree in business administration.

Attracted to the industrial sector and craving tangible proof of work, Lisa Lyon found fulfillment at Webstone after leaving a dissatisfying job with a grueling commute. Seeing tradespeople making a meaningful impact each day, she was drawn to manufacturing and knew Webstone was the right fit for her.

Amy Hart of Continental Plumbing Services got into plumbing after her husband needed help with his business. She's passionate about apprenticeship programs and believes that representation is important to attract more women to the field. Her advice for women is to be confident and get involved in the industry.

In 2025, DCW will return to the Las Vegas Convention Center, Feb. 25-27. The 2026 event will move to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. In 2027 DCW returns to Las Vegas where it will remain until 2030.

Meet Alayna Chavez, plumber at Parker & Sons. She took advantage of free trade school opportunities and took the chance at plumbing. That was seven years ago and she hasn't turned back since.

Tracy Gawecki is the regional sales manager at Oatey. Discovering the plumbing industry at a college career fair, she was intrigued by its essential role in everyday life. Recognizing its stability and complexity, Tracy chose plumbing as her career, finding satisfaction in its continual learning opportunities.

The future for young women in this industry is now as bright as anyone wants it to be. If a young woman wants to work her way all the way up to the C-suite, the opportunities are there, and that is so exciting to see.