Summer 2025 | Chapters / Councils / Committees | NVBIA

Dear WBI Community,

It’s hard to believe we’ve already hit the halfway mark of 2025. As we reflect on the past several months, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for each of you. Your involvement is what makes NVBIA’s Women in the Building Industry such a vibrant, encouraging force. Whether it’s on job sites, in offices, at design desks, or behind the scenes keeping things moving, EVERY role matters. The breadth of talent, perspective, and diversity within our group continues to be one of our greatest strengths.

We recently celebrated one of our signature traditions: the annual Wine Networking Event - in an exciting new location! It was uplifting to see so many of you, both longtime members and first-time attendees, fill the room with energy, conversation and that unmistakable WBI spirit. Congrats! We smashed our goal in support of HomeAid’s Builders for Babies Diaper Drive thanks to your generosity and heart for giving back. You made the evening unforgettable, and we’re already looking forward to what’s next.

Last month at the HBAV Annual Conference, the conversation reinforced how important it is women continue to be present and engaged at every level of the building industry. WBI plays a critical role in sparking those connections and nurturing the growth that follows. I’m so proud of the momentum we’re building together.

Serving as President of this exceptional committee, alongside the incredible WBI leadership team, is a privilege I carry with deep gratitude and commitment. As we turn the page to the second half of the year, thank you for showing up, lifting one another up, and making WBI the powerful community it is.

Fueled by purpose, grounded in strength and boldly moving forward,

Women in Construction Happy Hour

We had a great time celebrating Women in Construction Week with an evening full of laughs, conversations, and good company. The Capital Grille in Fairfax was the perfect spot to connect, relax, and toast to the amazing women in our industry!

Pickleball Event

Our first-ever Pickleball event was a hit. It was well attended and filled with enthusiasm! Hosted at The Pickleball of Tysons and generously sponsored by The Home Depot Design Center, the afternoon was packed with friendly competition, laughter, and great company.

Thanks to everyone who came out and made this inaugural event such a success!

Women Giving Back

WBI came together for a hands - on and heartwarming morning at Women Giving Back. We sorted clothing, refreshed the Prom Boutique, swapped out winter gear for summer styles, rearranged key areas, created food kits, and tackled new donations. It was a fulfilling and energizing way to give back - thank you to everyone who joined us!

To learn more about Women Giving Back and their mission, visit womengivingback.org 

Sip & Support - Wine Networking Event

WBI gathered at the beautiful Hilltop Farm in Centreville for a memorable evening of wine tasting, networking, and giving back. With wine from Vienna Vintner, delicious bites from Silver Spoon Catering and The Home Depot Design Center, it was the perfect setting, with stunning views all around.

Thanks to your incredible support, we collected over 35,000 diapers for HomeAid National Capital Region’s Builders for Babies Diaper Drive, far surpassing our goal. Thank you for making it such a meaningful night! A special shout out to Robin Mathis at Community Title Network for contributing a large part of our WBI donation - over 13,000 diapers and wipes!

To learn more about HomeAid National Capital Region - visit their website here!

Upcoming event - Save the date September 8th - 14th  - Great American Community Kitchen volunteer shifts. To learn more about the work they do, you can visit their website here!

Each year, the Home Builders Association of Virginia (HBAV) - the state-level organization under the national federation of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) - recognizes members who exemplify leadership, engagement, and a strong dedication to the success of the association, the community, and Virginia’s building industry. Our local chapter, the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association (NVBIA), is proud to be part of this broader network. We are excited to announce that we have several HBAV award winners among us!

Debbie Rosenstein, NVBIA - Executive Officer of the Year

Mya Tran-Harter, Intercoastal Mortgage LLC - Woman of the Year

As the temperatures rise, so do the demands on our bodies and minds. Here are a few simple ways to stay well and feel your best this season:

💧 Hydration Tips

• Start early: Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning to get ahead for the day.
• Carry a reusable water bottle: Keep it at your desk and refill throughout the day.
• Set reminders: Try setting hourly hydration reminders or using an app.
• Infuse for fun: Add lemon, cucumber, mint, or berries to make plain water more appealing.
• Don’t forget your Team: For those team members working outdoors in the summer heat, a little extra care goes a long way. Consider offering an added boost - whether it's a cooler stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, or a surprise visit with popsicles or ice cream. Small gestures can make a big impact on comfort, morale, and well-being. Let’s help each other stay cool, hydrated, and appreciated!

🖥️ Screen Break Reminders

• The 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Micro-movements: Stretch, stand, or walk around for 2-5 minutes every hour.
• Go outside when possible: Step away from your screen and soak in some natural light - even a few minutes can reset your focus.

🌞 Summer Mental Health Check-In

• Check in with yourself: How are you really feeling? It’s okay if the answer isn’t “great.” Awareness is step one.
• Plan something to look forward to: A long weekend, a dinner with friends, or even a solo walk can boost your mood.
• Set boundaries: Don’t be afraid to log off when your workday ends - summer is short, and recharging matters.

Share with us how YOU are Recharging and Refreshing over this summer, you can send photos to Jenn Keesling (jkeesling@vanmetrehomes.com) and Georgeanne Harter (gharter@vanmetrehomes.com)

Stay tuned and keep an eye on your inbox for all the exciting details and updates. Don’t forget - NVBIA’s website is your go-to spot for the latest and greatest happenings!

Events Calendar - NVBIA

WBI Upcoming Events

July 9th WBI, HCCA & NAWIC Happy Hour

September 8th - 14th Community Service Project - Great American Community Kitchen

October 15th Community Service Project - Friends of Homeless Animals

November 13th Leadership Event

December 4th WBI & Future Leaders Holiday Party

This calendar is subject to be filled with additional awesome events, more to come.

Are You Hiring?

Is your company looking for industry superstars to join your team?

If you’d like to have your openings featured, please contact our PR and Communications Committee Chairs at Jkeesling@vanmetrehomes.com and Gharter@vanmetrehomes.com.

Let’s help connect top talent with exciting opportunities!

The mission of Women in the Building Industry (WBI) is to amplify the career advancement and leadership opportunities for women in the home building industry while fostering an inclusive environment for all. We are committed to uniting individuals across all genders to collaborate for the mutual benefit of our members, promoting fellowship, understanding, and education within the industry. Through these efforts, we strive to elevate women into leadership roles and encourage everyone - especially women - to pursue, grow, and establish successful careers in the home building sector, ultimately contributing to the betterment of the industry as a whole.

WBI membership is included as part of your company's NVBIA dues. Know an NVBIA member who should receive these emails or the WBI newsletter? Have them email jmcdonald@nvbia.com to be added.

Share this newsletter with your peers! Email Jana McDonald to get on the WBI newsletter list. Let's build a more connected community together!

Women in the Building Industry is a committee of the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association (NVBIA). To learn more about WBI, visit here.