Southwest Florida Women in Construction Week highlights the women building our communities.

Southwest Florida’s construction industry continues to evolve, and women in construction are playing an increasingly powerful role in shaping its future. That momentum was on full display as professionals, business owners, mayors, and council members from across the region gathered to celebrate Women in Construction Week 2026, a multi-day initiative hosted by SWFL Women in Construction.

Recognized as one of the notable Southwest Florida events supporting industry advancement, the week brought together leaders committed to strengthening both community impact and the future of the building industry.

The week officially kicked off with a Luxury Leadership Lunch at Taberna Ole in Fort Myers, bringing together women from across Southwest Florida’s construction industry. Professionals and business owners representing every corner of the field were in attendance, including architects, general contractors, project managers, designers, plumbers, roofers, landscape company owners, and other leaders in women in skilled trades.

The luncheon also served as a powerful example of construction industry networking, creating space for collaboration, mentorship, and meaningful connections among industry professionals.

Women in Construction Week Recognized by Local Leadership

The event welcomed Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter and Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson, along with community leaders and council members from across the region.

During the luncheon, Mayor Anderson presented an official proclamation declaring the first week of March as Women in Construction Week, recognizing the growing impact women are making across the construction industry and throughout Southwest Florida.

The recognition from local mayors and council members highlighted the importance of construction leadership and women-led businesses within the region’s rapidly growing construction sector. Their presence underscored how essential strong leadership and professional development opportunities are to the continued success of the industry.

Leadership Behind SWFL Women in Construction

A key part of the event was recognizing the leadership behind the organization itself. Alejandra Lopez, CEO of Office Pro Installation and founder of SWFL Women in Construction, has helped build the organization into a growing network of professionals and business owners throughout the region.

Through intentional construction networking events and ongoing mentorship initiatives, the organization continues to support collaboration and career advancement for women across the field.

During the luncheon, awards were presented to leaders within the organization who have helped drive growth and impact over the past year, recognizing their dedication to expanding opportunities for women in construction and strengthening construction industry networking across Southwest Florida.

A Room Full of Leaders

Being surrounded by so many hardworking women in the construction industry was truly inspiring. The room was filled with leaders building companies, managing projects, and shaping the future of Southwest Florida through innovation and construction leadership.

Local leadership was also present, including Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter, Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson, Cape Coral City Council Member Jennifer Nelson (District 4), and Fort Myers Councilperson Darla Bonk, demonstrating strong support from both cities for the growing influence of women in construction.

Mayor John Gunter delivered an inspirational closing message, emphasizing the importance of the work these women are doing and the role they play in building the future of the region.

Before entering politics, Gunter worked in the construction industry, giving him firsthand insight into the challenges builders and contractors face. He shared that navigating permitting issues ultimately inspired him to step into public service.

While progress has been made, he noted that there is still more work to be done in the City of Cape Coral, particularly in improving processes that impact contractors, builders, and local businesses — an issue central to advancing both workforce growth and sustainable development.

Keynote Speaker Ivette Galarza

Keynote speaker Ivette Galarza shared an inspiring story of leadership and reinvention. After a long career serving families across Southwest Florida, she transitioned into the construction industry, becoming a licensed General Contractor and encouraging more women to pursue leadership roles and long-term professional development within the field.

Her journey reflects the expanding opportunities available for women in skilled trades and the evolving role of women in construction across the region.

Supporting Women in the Community

Women in Construction Week also supports local community initiatives. Proceeds from the organization’s “She Builds Wealth” series benefit Dress for Success Southwest Florida and their boutique located at:

907 SE 5th Ave Cape Coral, FL 33990

The organization provides professional clothing, career resources, and workforce support for women entering or returning to the workforce, reinforcing the importance of community-driven professional development.

Women in Construction Week 2026

Throughout the week, SWFL Women in Construction hosted several industry events, including a blueprint workshop led by architect Rosa Valera, an industry jobsite visit, and a closing networking event hosted by Integrity Plumbing Solutions at The Collection by Hughes in Fort Myers.

These gatherings serve as impactful construction networking events, offering meaningful opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and business growth. As one of the region’s standout Southwest Florida events, the week continues to strengthen connections across the construction community.

Joining SWFL Women in Construction

SWFL Women in Construction focuses on connecting professionals, sharing knowledge, and creating mentorship opportunities for women across the industry. By expanding resources, encouraging construction industry networking, and amplifying women’s voices, the organization continues to elevate construction leadership throughout Southwest Florida.

To learn more about upcoming events or membership opportunities, visit:
www.swflwomeninconstruction.com

Building the Future Together

Women in Construction Week is a powerful reminder that leadership, collaboration, and opportunity are shaping the future of the industry.

Across Southwest Florida, women in construction are building businesses, leading projects, and strengthening the regional economy through innovation, expertise, and resilience.

And as this week demonstrated, when women lead, the entire industry moves forward.