The Future of Women in the Building Industry in New York City Top Leaders in the Field Debate

(EMAILWIRE.COM, October 26, 2007 ) New York, NY -- Why can¹t women owned businesses crack the lucrative private sector? These and other questions will be the focus of a major forum-taking place on November 13th at McGraw Hill¹s midtown Manhattan offices from 7.45 am ¬ 11 am. Noted economist Rosemary Scanlon, New York City Building Commissioner Patricia Lancaster, the first woman to hold the title in New York City history, as well as leading executives ¬ both men and women ¬ from the city¹s largest construction and real estate firms will be among the industry leaders addressing the topic of what women can do to improve their procurement opportunities, win private contracts and gain a direct path to power to realize their economic impact and potential.“We¹ve come a long way buy we aren¹t there yet,” said Sandra Wilkin, president of Bradford Construction and the Women Builders Council, and one of the sponsors of the forum. “Women need to have a better understanding of the dynamics going on in the construction industry today,” she continued. “We need to determine what is preventing women from getting to where they should be and then break down these glass ceilings and concrete barriers that are impeding talented women. We need to make it possible for them to realize their potential in this market.” “The building industry needs the talent that women have,” noted Ms. Wilkin.”If our industry, here in the New York, is to grow, there is no choice but to open the doors to women. That is why this forum is so vital and these issues are so topical and pertinent to our industry.” Small and mid-sized business owners, and other professionals (men and women) in the fields of construction and real estate development, are invited to attend this morning forum. Tickets are $50 per person and include a continental breakfast. Student tickets are $25. To learn more about Opening Doors Wider to Build New York: , Glass Ceilings, Concrete Barriers, Glass Cliffs, on November 13th call Preeti Chhibber at 212-904-2332, or email preeti_chhibber@mcgraw-hill.com. The event will be held at McGraw-Hill, 1221 Sixth Avenue (W. 49th Street), 2nd Floor.

Jane Bartnett

jane@janebartnett.com