Our History

Our Capital District Chapter started in 1979 with 21 Charter members. The chapter organized with the purpose of providing women with a place to discuss issues unique to women in the construction field. At that time many women did not join in the accepted groups like NESCA, GBC, and ABC as these were male dominated organizations with only a few women members. Women were then the exception and not accepted as they are now in the business world.

The chapter has sponsored scholarships for people going on to higher education pertinent to the construction industry and has given away over $12,000. in scholarships over the years. We have also selected various local charities to help. Around Christmas each year, we donate to such places as The Ronald McDonald House, Albany Medical Center’s Children’s Hospital, and some of the battered women’s shelters in the capital region.

Our members have spoken to various groups to encourage women entering the construction field as to some of the problems they would face to help prepare themselves to handle them properly. We have also spoken to many middle and high school students at school career day functions about the advantage of working in construction and its many facets. We have been sitting on the committee of Construction Career days since its inception in 2002 put on my DOL, DOT, GBC, AGC, DASNY, and all of the local apprentice programs in the area.

We have taken advantage of speakers from the area to keep us informed about changes in DOT regulations, labor laws, tax issues, changes in the insurance and bonding industry, OSHA regulations and financial planning for individuals, businesses and estates. Chapter 261 has worked closely with NESCA over the years and is able to attend any of their special training sessions at member cost.