By CHARLYCE RUTH

As the construction industry continues to evolve, so does the need for strong, capable leaders who can navigate complexity, drive collaboration and build high-performing teams.

A growing focus on developing and advancing women in the workforce is critical to strengthening the industry’s long-term talent pipeline.

To support that effort, AGC of Missouri is partnering with HiGHEST GOOD PERFORMANCE to bring Empowered: A Leadership Program for Women in Construction to the St. Louis region.

The Empowered program was created by Maria Guy, a construction engineer with more than 20 years of industry experience and a leader in workforce and leadership development. In collaboration with AGC New Mexico, Guy designed the program to address the real challenges women face in construction while providing practical tools, shared language and a supportive community for growth.

Launching Sept. 9, in St. Louis, Empowered is a 10-month leadership journey that blends practical skill development, peer collaboration and real-world application.

To ensure relevance, the program was shaped by input from construction executives, leadership consultants and academic professionals.

Through a cohort-based model, participants engage in interactive workshops, peer discussions and networking opportunities while building skills in self-awareness, communication, conflict resolution, negotiation, change management and career advancement.

For employers, programs like Empowered represent more than professional development. They are a strategic investment in workforce sustainability.

“Developing strong leaders is essential to the future of our industry,” said Len Toenjes, CEO of AGC of Missouri. “Through our partnership with HiGHEST GOOD PERFORMANCE, Empowered provides a meaningful opportunity to invest in the growth and advancement of women in construction – strengthening not only individual careers, but the industry as a whole.”

AGC of Missouri will host two virtual Meet the Instructor & Program Preview sessions on May 20 and June 24.

These free, 30-minute sessions offer a chance to meet facilitators Laura Scheidhauer and Justine Dugan, explore the program structure and expectations and hear how Empowered has impacted participants in other AGC chapters.

Guy, the program’s creator, will also join both sessions to share insights into the program’s development and industry impact.

The program is facilitated locally by Scheidhauer, founder of HiGHEST GOOD PERFORMANCE, alongside Justine Dugan, a leader in organizational development and workplace culture. Together, they deliver the Empowered curriculum in a way that is practical, engaging and tailored to the needs of today’s construction professionals.

For more information or to register, visit https://agcmo.org/Shared_Content/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=052026EMP