From workplace safety and leadership to mentorship and the next generation of workers, members of IBEW 1245’s Women’s Committee returned from the 2026 Women in Construction Conference with fresh ideas and renewed inspiration for their fellow members and our mission at 1245.
Six members of IBEW 1245’s Women’s Committee attended the 2026 Women in Construction Conference, held September 9-10 in Sacramento. The two-day event brought together women from across the construction industry to share experiences, build connections and return with new ideas and perspectives to share in their workplaces and communities.
For IBEW 1245 Business Representative Nicole Brooks, who chairs the Women’s Committee, one of the most rewarding parts of the conference was seeing how much the committee members have grown as leaders and advocates for their fellow members.
“I’ve watched these women really come into their own,” Brooks said. “They’re incredible representatives of IBEW 1245. They’re building relationships, speaking up, supporting one another and becoming leaders in their own right. And they’re taking what they learn at events like this back to their workplaces, where they can share those lessons and help other members.”
Brooks was also inspired by the conference’s closing keynote speaker, Barbara Corcoran, entrepreneur and star of Shark Tank. Corcoran spoke about overcoming challenges, including her struggles with dyslexia and difficulties in school, and how those experiences helped shape her approach to business and leadership.
“Barbara’s story was a great reminder that the things we struggle with don’t have to define what we’re capable of accomplishing,” Brooks said.
Among the featured speakers was Amy Trask, former CEO of the Oakland Raiders, whose message about leadership and perseverance resonated with several committee members.
“Amy didn’t simply enter a male-dominated industry—she became a leader within it,” said Karyn Newmark, a Substation Journeyman Electrician.
Newmark said the conference reinforced the importance of helping women not only enter the trades, but also develop the skills, confidence and support necessary to advance.
For Tierney Foster, a Journeyman Lineman, one of the biggest takeaways came from a presentation about workplace safety and the importance of creating an environment where workers feel comfortable acknowledging mistakes.
“As an individual who works a dangerous job, that phrase felt like my lightbulb moment,” Foster said, referring to the speaker’s message to “make mistakes safe to surface.” She emphasized that being honest about mistakes and limitations can help prevent injuries and improve safety on the job.
Iyasha Davis, a Customer Service Representative with PG&E found herself reflecting on the confidence she had as a young girl, when she was often described as audacious, bossy and eager to lead.
“I realized that part of me was not as audacious as I once was and I am learning to embrace that spirit more fully in this stage of my leadership journey,” Davis said.
For Nicole Caldwell, a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator in Willits and IBEW 1245 shop steward, the conference offered a reminder that success isn’t measured by professional accomplishments alone.
“Success is not only about our careers, accomplishments, or the goals we achieve,” she said. “It is also about the relationships we build, the people we support, and the memories and connections we create along the way.”
Tiffany Clemons, a Journeyman Tree Trimmer with Arbor Works, appreciated Trask’s message about supporting everyone who helps make the workplace better, including the men who have mentored and encouraged women throughout their careers.
“While it is important for women to lift each other up, we should also recognize and appreciate the men who have supported us, opened doors for us, mentored us, and helped us succeed,” Clemons said.
For Sandra Martinez, a gas leak surveyor with NV Energy, the conference was her first, and she especially enjoyed spending time with her fellow committee members and hearing from successful women in the industry.
“I know that all our 1245 IBEW Women Committee members are paving the path for future generations in the trades,” Martinez said.
The sisters returned home with new ideas, stronger connections and plenty to bring back to their workplaces and the Women’s Committee.
As Newmark put it, building the future workforce is about more than bringing people through the door. It’s about making sure they have the opportunity to succeed, grow and eventually help the next generation do the same.