Special Report
The Barrie Construction Association’s Women in Construction (WiC) group is redefining the construction landscape in Simcoe County. Since its founding in 2019, WiC has offered women in the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional (ICI) and Residential sectors a platform to connect, learn, and lead in an industry that is constantly evolving.
The BCA recognizes that women are helping to lead the growth and success of the construction industry in Simcoe County, yet resources to support their careers and address unique challenges have been limited. The Women in Construction group is designed to fill that gap.
“WiC provides opportunities for women to network, learn, succeed, and lead,” says Michelle Dada, P.Eng., co-chair of WiC and founder of MNT Consulting Group Inc. “It’s about supporting women in their professional growth and strengthening the industry as a whole.”
Meetings are held the fourth Wednesday of every month from 5 to 6 p.m. at the BCA office at 200 Brock Street, Barrie.
Women working in any role in the construction industry are welcome to join, including owners, architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, manufacturers, suppliers, managers, supervisors, safety professionals, project managers, superintendents, estimators, labourers, and administrative staff. Students and apprentices can also join and are encouraged to consider the BCA’s Young Leaders program.
A Personal Journey into Construction
Michelle Dada’s path into engineering was shaped by curiosity and a love of hands-on work. “Since I was a child, I have been curious about how things work and how they’re built,” she says. “I’ve always loved outdoor work, and even in high school, I sought jobs that kept me active and outside as much as possible.”
Her work in engineering is inspired by its role in building communities. “It’s what ensures we have clean drinking water, functioning sewage systems, strong roads, and safe buildings,” Dada explains. “These things are made possible by dedicated people in construction, working behind the scenes and on the jobsite every day.”
Over the years, Dada has also built homes and started a construction company with her husband. “My hands-on experience has influenced how I’ve shaped MNT Consulting Group,” she says. “We approach engineering and planning with a practical, construction-driven mindset, balancing technical expertise with real-world know-how.”
Advocating for Mental Health and Inclusivity
Madeleine Smith’s project management and leadership background came from outside the construction industry, where she spent her school years as a camp programming director, choir and orchestra section leader, musical stage manager, and teaching assistant. Each of those roles taught her how to lead, communicate, and adapt—skills that have translated seamlessly into construction.
Now a senior engineer and project manager with Tatham Engineering, Smith co-chairs WiC alongside Dada. She says her interest in engineering stems from the satisfaction of watching projects come to life.
“I’ve always thrived on seeing things built from the ground up. To see a project through from start to finish remains one of my favourite aspects of being a structural engineer. On a regular basis I am able to see unused spaces transformed into functional buildings,” Smith says.
She adds that the group aims to change the culture within the industry to better support women and the workforce as a whole. “The industry is fast-paced and demanding, but that shouldn’t come at the cost of well-being. When workers are supported, they stay and they thrive.”
Smith says it is also important to promote roles both on and off the job site. “From design to project management and execution, women bring exceptional skill and insight to construction. By promoting flexibility and celebrating the creative, collaborative spirit of the field, we can open the door to a more diverse and dynamic workforce.”
Professional Development and Community Engagement
WiC organizes professional networking and social events, educational seminars, training, workshops, and discussions with guest speakers focused on women in the construction industry. The group shares industry news, innovations, and best practices, promotes leadership opportunities, and advocates for women’s success while ensuring members have fun along the way.
Monthly meetings blend networking, learning, and leadership, while social events like “Yoga in the Park” and participation in the annual Slo-Pitch Tournament hosted by the BCA Young Leaders Group foster camaraderie.
Supporting future talent is another priority. WiC offers an annual bursary to female students entering or continuing post-secondary education in skilled trades. “This helps remove financial barriers and encourages more women to pursue careers in construction,” Dada says.
The group also supports the community, including annual participation in local events such as the Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids’ Sake, Gift-a-Family Christmas Campaigns, and raising funds for the Women and Children’s Shelter of Barrie.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on progress in her 20-year career, Dada says change has been significant. “When I started, women were often overlooked or underestimated. Now, there’s more respect, and more women are stepping confidently into leadership roles across all parts of the industry.”
She adds that collaboration is key to success. “Integrated teams that value diverse perspectives—women and men, engineers and planners, contractors and architects—lead to stronger outcomes. I’m proud to be part of that evolution and to help lead the way forward.”
Through professional growth, advocacy, and community service, the Barrie Construction Association’s Women in Construction group is empowering women, promoting inclusivity, and strengthening the construction industry in Simcoe County. WiC is opening doors for the next generation while fostering a sustainable and dynamic future for all in construction.