In celebration of Construction Inclusion Week, NAWIC Puget Sound is bringing back Coffee & Conversations—our small-group gatherings designed for something we could all use a little more of: real conversation and genuine connection.
What to expect: Nothing formal, just coffee, a thoughtfully chosen topic, and an intimate group willing to share their experiences and diverse perspectives.
This month’s conversation will explore mentorship, sponsorship, opportunity, and belonging through three simple questions:
WHO OPENED THE DOOR?
We’ll reflect on the people who saw something in us, advocated for us, made an introduction, taught us something, invited us into the room, or simply gave us a chance.
WHAT HAPPENED ONCE YOU WALKED THROUGH IT?
Getting an opportunity and feeling like you truly belong aren’t always the same thing. We’ll talk about the moments, people, and workplace cultures that made us feel heard, valued, and included—and some of the unwritten rules we’ve had to figure out along the way.
WHOSE DOOR ARE YOU OPENING NOW?
We’ll turn the conversation forward. Who could benefit from an introduction, invitation, recommendation, mentorship, stretch opportunity, or simply someone saying, “You belong here, too”?
Things to think about before you show up to share:
- Who opened a door for you professionally, and what did they do?
- Has someone ever advocated for you when you weren’t in the room?
- When did you first feel like you truly belonged in your industry?
- What’s the difference between being invited into the room and actually being heard once you’re there?
- What “unwritten rule” did you have to learn the hard way?
- What’s one small action someone has taken that made you feel included?
- How can we recognize when someone else is standing outside the door?
- Who in your circle could benefit from an opportunity you have the ability to create?
Come as you are. Share as much or as little as you’d like. There are no perfect answers and no expectation that everyone has the same experience.
📅 October 14 | 9:00 AM
📍 Cortina Café – Two Union Square, Seattle
A huge THANK YOU to USI for sponsoring this month’s gathering and helping us create space for conversations that strengthen and connect our construction community.
Come grab a cup, pull up a chair, and join the conversation. ❤️
Opening doors starts with each of us.
