In 2016, The HOYA Foundation started Transportation & Construction GIRL to ensure that young women had opportunities for economic sustainability in the construction industry. This year’s Transportation & Construction GIRL Day held in September, had 1,200 girls from 70 different schools in Colorado attend the exhibitor fair at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds in Golden, Colorado, to learn about careers in transportation and construction. With over 50 exhibits, students had opportunities for interactive experiences, hands-on learning and exposure to various types of careers within the trade.
This was Viega’s first year as a sponsor of this event. Students who visited the Viega booth had the opportunity to get some hands-on experience with Viega products, learn how to use a press tool, and complete a press connection themselves. Representatives from Viega were able to talk to the students about their experiences in the trades and other areas of the industry where girls can be involved.
Viega did an internal photo contest and chose one of the photos to be included in a coloring book given to attendees. Download the coloring book by visiting https://constructiongirl.org/programs.
One of Viega’s goals is to create a more inclusive space for all seeking a career in the trades. Earlier this year, Viega formed its Inclusion Council which brings together people from different departments across all levels of its organization. The Inclusion Council is helping determine the specific focus areas around diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEI&B). Our goal is to close the gap and supporting organizations like Transportation & Construction GIRL and creating our own internal resource groups are a first step in getting involved.
Supporting organizations like Transportation & Construction GIRL is only one of the ways that Viega supports the next generation of trades. Viega also recently sponsored eight scholarships through the PHCC Educational Foundation, which awarded 57 scholarships to applicants either in an apprenticeship program, trade school, or pursuing studies directly related to the plumbing, heating, and cooling industry. Learn more about those scholarships and the 2023 recipients here.
