Industry leader urges communities to empower future builders through mentorship, education, and opportunity.
LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESS Newswire / October 20, 2025 / Vickie DeHart, co-founder of EHB and one of Nevada's first women to hold a general contractor's license, is calling for increased awareness and action to support women pursuing careers in construction and the trades. Drawing from her own decades of experience, DeHart is advocating for more mentorship, technical training, and community-driven initiatives to help women enter and thrive in an industry where they currently represent less than 11% of the workforce.
"Construction shaped who I am," DeHart says. "It taught me resilience, problem-solving, and leadership. But even today, women are still underrepresented on job sites, in management, and in ownership roles. We need to make sure the next generation knows that they belong here too."
A Trailblazer in a Male-Dominated Field
DeHart's journey in the construction industry began long before diversity and inclusion were mainstream conversations. As Principal and Vice President of Powerhouse Construction, she managed large-scale framing and renovation projects and carried the company's general contractor's license-breaking barriers and expectations in the process.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), women make up just 10.9% of the construction workforce, and less than 4% hold leadership or ownership positions. At the same time, nearly 1 million skilled trade positions in the U.S. remain unfilled, creating both an economic gap and an opportunity for women to step in.
"People think construction is just hard hats and hammers," DeHart explains. "But it's about vision, teamwork, and problem-solving. Women bring those strengths naturally. What we need are systems and mentors that help them see what's possible."
From Advocacy to Action
DeHart emphasizes that meaningful change starts locally - not just through corporate programs but also through mentorship, education, and visibility. She encourages communities, schools, and businesses to engage with initiatives that help women explore trade careers early.
"Start small," she says. "Visit a local trade school. Volunteer to speak to students. If you own a business, offer internships or job shadowing opportunities. Every bit of exposure helps someone picture themselves in this work."
Her own experience as a leader at EHB reinforces the value of inclusion. DeHart oversees financial operations, escrow coordination, insurance, and leasing while working alongside architects, engineers, and city departments. "Collaboration is where innovation starts," she says. "When you include more voices - different perspectives - you get better results. That's true on a project site and in any business."
Why It Matters Now
Industry research supports DeHart's message. The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) reports that companies with gender-diverse leadership are 21% more likely to achieve above-average profitability. Meanwhile, the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) estimates that the construction sector will need to attract over half a million new workers in 2025 just to meet demand.
"If we want to fill the talent gap, we can't afford to overlook half the population," DeHart notes. "We should be doing everything we can to welcome women into these careers - not just because it's the right thing, but because it makes the industry stronger."
A Personal Call to Action
DeHart's advocacy extends beyond statistics - it's personal. Her own success, she says, was shaped by people who took the time to guide her and open doors along the way.
"I had mentors who believed in me before I believed in myself," she recalls. "Now it's my turn - and everyone's turn - to do that for someone else."
She encourages individuals to take small but meaningful steps in their own circles.
Mentor or encourage a young woman considering a technical trade.
Support organizations that promote women in skilled professions, such as NAWIC or local apprenticeship programs.
Challenge stereotypes when you see them.
Celebrate the work of women already in the field.
"Change doesn't happen overnight," DeHart says. "It happens when ordinary people take action in their own communities. We all have a role to play in building the future."
About Vickie DeHart
Vickie DeHart is the co-founder of EHB, a Nevada-based company specializing in real estate development, construction, and operations. She was previously Principal and Vice President of Powerhouse Construction and one of the first women in Nevada to obtain a general contractor's license. DeHart is an advocate for wellness, mentorship, and community service, actively supporting organizations such as the Israeli-American Council (IAC) and the American Heart Association.
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SOURCE: Vickie DeHart
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