Each year, Women in Construction (WIC) Week recognizes and celebrates the growing impact of women across the construction industry. Founded in 1998 by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), WIC Week 2026 will take place March 1–7, highlighting the achievements, leadership and innovation women bring to the built environment.
At Extreme Steel Inc. (ESI), Women in Construction Week is an opportunity to acknowledge the skilled professionals who contribute to every phase of structural steel engineering, fabrication, logistics and erection.
Advancing Women in Structural Steel and Construction
The construction industry continues to evolve — and women are playing an increasingly vital role in shaping its future. From engineering and drafting to welding, project management, safety and executive leadership, women contribute technical expertise, strategic insight and operational excellence across the organization.
In structural steel construction specifically, precision, coordination and collaboration are essential. ESI’s vertically integrated model creates opportunities for women to lead and excel in:
- Structural steel engineering and detailing
- BIM coordination and 3D modeling
- Project management and scheduling
- Quality control and compliance
- Fabrication and shop operations
- Field supervision and safety leadership
As more women pursue careers in construction and skilled trades, companies like ESI are proud to be part of an industry that values talent, performance and innovation above all.
Women Leading at Extreme Steel
Erin Henzey – Corporate Controller
As Corporate Controller at Extreme Steel Inc. in Winchester, Virginia, Erin Henzey partners with senior leadership to drive strategic growth and financial excellence in the structural steel fabrication and erection sector.
Erin led the company’s rapid GAAP compliance initiative, oversaw its first CPA review and implemented a new ERP and payroll system — streamlining operations and improving company-wide efficiency. She built and now mentors a six-person accounting and administrative team in a hybrid environment while supporting the CFO on work-in-progress (WIP) revenue calculations, budgeting, project controls, forecasting and board reporting.
She also oversees audits, tax preparation and post-acquisition integrations, helping ensure financial integrity across the organization.
Prior to joining ESI, Erin built an accounting department from the ground up at a technology startup and managed general ledger, payroll, project accounting, audits and government contracts at an engineering firm. Her earlier experience across the energy, software and nonprofit sectors strengthened her expertise in managing complex financial operations.
Originally from Ohio and a graduate of the University of Akron, Erin and her husband have called Northern Virginia home for more than 17 years, where they are raising their three children.
Kathy Landmesser – Senior Project Manager
Kathy Landmesser began her career as a detailer at Superior Iron Works and worked her way up through the ranks to Assistant Project Manager, Project Manager and now Senior Project Manager — a testament to both her technical expertise and leadership.
With more than 25 years of experience, Kathy has managed multiple structural and miscellaneous steel projects simultaneously across Washington, D.C., Virginia and Maryland. Her portfolio includes federal and commercial projects ranging from $100,000 to $15,000,000.
Her expertise spans budgeting, scheduling, contract negotiation and stakeholder coordination. She is known for strong communication, mentoring project teams, coordinating across internal staff, field crews and subcontractors and resolving complex project challenges while maintaining cost and schedule discipline.
Kathy has received multiple Washington Building Congress Craftsmanship Awards for projects she managed, including:
- Square 487 – 600 5th Street Office Renovation (2025)
- Smithsonian Institution Arts & Industries Building Revitalization (2022)
- 1785 Massachusetts Ave NW Renovations (2016)
She also helped lead the team that earned “Excellence in Contract Administration” recognition with Hensel Phelps for the WMATA Virginia Headquarters project in 2022.
Like Erin, Kathy is originally from Ohio, where she grew up in Warren. She has been married for 35 years, has two children — including a Senior Engineer and an EIT Tunnel Engineer — and two grandchildren.
Building a Stronger, More Inclusive Industry
Women in Construction Week is both a celebration and a reminder of the importance of workforce development and industry inclusion. The future of construction depends on attracting diverse talent, supporting mentorship and creating clear career pathways.
Structural steel construction requires technical precision, problem-solving and teamwork. Encouraging women to pursue careers in engineering, welding, drafting, estimating and field operations strengthens the industry as a whole and supports long-term growth.
By investing in training, technology and collaborative leadership, ESI remains committed to fostering an environment where professionals of all backgrounds can thrive.
The Future of Construction Is Built Together
The demand for skilled labor, engineering expertise and construction leadership continues to grow. Recognizing and supporting women in construction ensures the industry remains resilient, innovative and forward-thinking.
During Women in Construction Week 2026, we celebrate the women whose dedication and expertise drive progress in structural steel and throughout the construction sector. Their contributions help build stronger projects, stronger teams and stronger communities.
Partner with a Structural Steel Company Focused on Excellence
Extreme Steel Inc. delivers integrated structural steel engineering, fabrication and erection solutions across the Mid-Atlantic. Contact us to learn how our team-driven approach supports high-performance construction projects from start to finish.