Our Journey Through Time

About AWC

Discover the milestones that have shaped the Association of Women Contractors into the influential organization it is today.

Our Historical Timeline

Take a walk through the key events that have defined our legacy.

1995

Foundation of AWC

10 highway-heavy female contractors attend a MnDOT training session on Real Power by Janet O. Hagburg.

Feeling empowered, they band together to found the Association of Women Contractors: a 501(c)(6) association with a mission to support and empower women-owned businesses in the Minnesota construction industry.

2000

First Golf Tournament

To further the mission of AWC, the 2000 Board decides to begin a scholarship fund in order to assist women entering the construction industry.

Today, our 9-hole Scholarship FUNdraiser Golf Tournament is open to golfers of all skill levels and still the primary drive of our scholarship fund.

2008

Full-Time Staff

Up until 2008, AWC boasted a working Board. These women were not only running their own companies, they were running this association.

With a desire to further the impact of AWC, the Board hires it’s first full-time W2 employee: Barb Lau. Who is still AWC’s Executive Director and continues to advocate for our members and our mission every day single day.

2022

25th Anniversary

The pandemic delays our 25th Anniversary Silver Celebration by 2 years, but we don’t let it dampen our fun.

Over 300 attendees join us in celebrating this milestone.

2025

Celebrating 30 Years

At over 230 members strong, we continue to make networking, education, and advocacy at the forefront of our efforts to support women and minority contractors in the Minnestoa construction industry.

AWC Today

The Association of Women Contractors is driven by just one goal – to empower women business owners and service providers. Since its inception in 1995, the AWC has grown into a diverse community of more than 250 members working on some of the biggest commercial, residential and transportation projects in the state of Minnesota.

What differentiates the AWC from any other construction associations? The willingness of its members to lend a helping hand. Teamwork and collaboration are at the core of everything we do.

Which is why our members can always trust each other for professional guidance and assistance even in the toughest of crises. To learn more about membership with AWC, visit our Membership Page.