For many women in construction, real progress doesn’t come from another checklist or presentation. It comes from honest conversations with people who understand the pressure of the job, the weight of leadership and what it really takes to build something that lasts. That’s exactly the space the EmpowerHER Workshop creates at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026.
The two-day experience brings women together to share real stories, practical insight and strategies that actually apply to the work they’re doing every day. It’s an intentional investment in growth on the realities women face while building careers in construction.
What sets the EmpowerHER Workshop apart is that it’s built around real-world experiences.
Missy Scherber, co-owner and president of T. Scherber Demolition and Excavating, shares why this workshop matters and what women gain from taking the time to be part of it.
WHY THIS WORKSHOP EXISTS
Women are a growing force in the industry, yet many still navigate their businesses and careers without meaningful community support. As construction companies evolve and expectations around leadership and culture continue to rise, too many women are left to learn through trial and error without networks or places where they are fully understood.
As companies look to attract and retain staff, creating environments where women feel seen, supported and empowered is no longer optional. Led by contractors and industry leaders who have built businesses and careers from the ground up, the Workshop encourages honest conversations about what it really takes to grow as a woman leader in construction.
“From one contractor to another, there’s power in being in a place where you don’t have to explain yourself,” Missy shares. “EmpowerHER is about learning from one another, sharing what’s worked and being open about the challenges we don’t always get to talk about elsewhere.”
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
The Workshop will take place on Friday, March 6, and Saturday, March 7, and is designed to deliver actionable takeaways to women in the industry. Through peer-led panels, keynote discussions and facilitated conversations, attendees will engage with topics that directly impact their everyday lives.
Key areas of focus will include:
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Business growth and opportunity: Identifying ways to expand industry presence and position women-owned businesses for long-term success
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Leadership and mentorship: Developing confident leaders while supporting the next generation entering the workforce
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Community and connection: Building networks that extend beyond the show and create lasting professional support
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Health and wellbeing: Addressing mental and physical health challenges unique to demanding construction environments
EmpowerHER is designed to meet you where you are, as a business owner, executive, project manager or just beginning your journey in the industry. This is the place to exchange ideas, compare experiences and build professional relationships.
FAMILIAR VOICES IN THE INDUSTRY
A highlight of the workshop is the community-centered peer panel discussion led by Missy, featuring women industry voices Katie Kelleher of Katie Cranes; Amy Underwood (The Digger GirlTM); Ebony Jennings, and president of Jennings Asphalt Contracting & Construction. Panelists will share stories about their personal challenges and lessons learned from building careers in construction.
What sets the EmpowerHER Workshop apart is that it’s built around real-world experiences. Missy’s own journey, from early operational roles to leading an eight-figure demolition and excavating company, represents the value of strategic vision, culture and a people-first mindset.
“Growing a business isn’t just about contracts and equipment,” Missy explains. “It’s about building an environment where people feel supported, valued and set up for success. That’s what we hope people take back to their companies.”
INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE
Registration for the two-day workshop is $199, with advance registration required. For many, it’s an investment not only in professional development, but in the future they’re building.
As CONEXPO-CON/AGG continues to expand education and community-focused sessions, this Workshop represents a clear commitment to building a more inclusive, resilient workforce one conversation at a time.
EmpowerHER is designed for:
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Women-owned construction businesses
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Decision-makers and future leaders
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Women seeking mentorship, resources and peer support
Attendees looking to get more from their CONEXPO-CON/AGG experience will find the EmpowerHER Workshop offers something rarely seen: a space designed intentionally for women to succeed.
Seats are limited. Register for CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 and add the EmpowerHER Workshop to your registration to secure your spot.
Photo Courtesy CONEXPO-CON/AGG
