S5E#1: Women in Construction with Vicki O’Leary

A career in ironworking offers women valuable opportunities while helping to grow the skilled labor workforce. In this episode of Get the kNACk, hosts Sue Steele and Kevin Hilton sit down with Vicki O'Leary, Director of Diversity for the Ironworkers International Union, to discuss efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable construction industry. Vicki shares her journey into ironworking and the impactful initiatives she has led. She discusses progressive maternity leave policies designed to better support tradeswomen and the development of the “Be That One Guy” program, which empowers ironworkers to address and prevent workplace bullying and harassment. Additionally, Vicki shares how women can enter the ironworking field and why they choose to stay. This episode highlights the vital role of fostering diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity in traditionally male-dominated industries, building a stronger, more equitable workforce.