A long-running Philadelphia program is helping young women explore careers in construction and the skilled trades through free summer camps that combine hands-on learning, mentorship and industry exposure.

For the 17th consecutive year, Mentoring Young Women in Construction will host free day camps for girls entering grades 7 through 12, introducing participants to careers in construction, facilities management and the skilled trades.

To expand access in 2026, MyWIC will operate two regional camps:

• Session 1: Northeast Philadelphia: June 15-26, 2026
• Session 2: South Philadelphia: July 6-17, 2026

Each two-week session will serve 42 students, offering opportunities to visit active job sites, union training centers and construction projects. The camps are designed to provide real-world experiences and early exposure to career options that many young women may not otherwise encounter.

The program is organized by the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on building a more diverse and sustainable workforce for the construction industry. Through MyWIC, participants are introduced to skilled trades career pathways while developing confidence, leadership skills and professional connections.

Sponsors supporting the 2026 program include the General Building Contractors Association, NEST Integrated Facilities Management, the HRP Impact Foundation and the Karen M. Stone Foundation. Their contributions help keep the camps free while funding tools, safety training, jobsite tours, mentorship opportunities and hands-on activities.

“Through MyWIC, we are cultivating the next wave of female leaders in the skilled trades,” said Mary Gaffney, president of the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation. “Women remain significantly underrepresented in construction, yet the need for skilled professionals continues to grow. This program helps young women build confidence, learn directly from industry professionals and see that these careers are absolutely within reach.”

Throughout the camps, students work alongside industry professionals while gaining experience in trade skills, jobsite activities, masonry and finishing work. Participants also learn workplace readiness, safety procedures and leadership development skills.

The program includes visits to local trade unions representing carpenters, sheet metal workers, ironworkers, bricklayers, finishing trades, laborers and electricians. Students will learn directly from apprentices, instructors and experienced tradespeople.

Participants also will tour several active projects and facilities, including the Durapods plant, Penn Medicine Montgomeryville, the Bellwether District, CHOP’s Health Center, renovations at 30th Street Station, the I-95 CAP project and Gilbane’s Amtrak Station Renovation project.

In addition to field visits, students will take part in workshops and mentorship sessions designed to provide a deeper understanding of construction careers and the opportunities available throughout the industry.

“Before MyWIC, I didn’t even think about construction as a job for someone like me,” said Leah S., a returning high school participant. “Now I can see myself doing this as a career, and I’m not scared to try things I’ve never done before.”