On June 19th, Marek Houston participated in the NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) MAGIC (Mentoring a Girl in Construction) Camp at Galena Park ISD.
Marek drywall craftsmen Danielle Conacher and Gloria Palau mentored the camp participants on the proper installation of drywall panels. Each young lady had a hands-on experience using an electric screw gun. While Danielle and Gloria were giving instructions, MechoShade Superintendent Krista Sayre visited with the girls and discussed what had gone on during the camp and what they had liked best. She also talked about the many career opportunities available to women in the construction industry.
MAGIC (Mentoring a Girl in Construction):
- Provides a supportive and nurturing environment for high school girls to explore and develop basic skills in the area of carpentry, electrical, and other various trade skills
- Offers high school girls a gender neutral environment to learn and practice new skills without fear of being teased or isolated
- Develops greater self-confidence and better self-esteem for girls who tackle challenging projects and successfully complete them
- Develops a safety first attitude and 'we can do it' mindset via the safety and history of women in construction seminars on the opening day of camp
- Introduces high school girls to women role models who have achieved success in all areas of construction. From tradeswomen to engineers, architects to accountants, project superintendents/supervisors and business owners to clerical support, the girls learn there is room in the construction industry for their dreams too
- Introduces college and apprentice bound students to valuable NAWIC Founders Scholarship Fund (NFSF) and tradeswomen scholarship information
- Helps to promote commitment to increasing the number of women choosing careers in the construction industry.