JACKSON, Mich. — The Home Builders Association of Jackson, Hillsdale & Lenawee is proud to
announce that its Professional Women in Building (PWB) Council has officially been chartered
by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), marking a significant milestone for both
the Association and the women helping shape the future of the residential construction
industry.
The official charter was recognized on June 11, 2026, during the NAHB Board of Directors
meetings in Washington, D.C., making the HBA’s Professional Women in Building Council one of
a select group of NAHB-recognized councils nationwide.
The Professional Women in Building Council was established to connect, support, educate, and
empower women working throughout the building industry while creating opportunities for
leadership development, professional growth, networking, and community engagement.
“Women are making an incredible impact throughout every facet of the building industry,” said
Pat O’Dowd, Executive Officer of the HBA of Jackson, Hillsdale & Lenawee. “From builders and
remodelers to suppliers, designers, lenders, real estate professionals, and skilled tradespeople,
women are helping drive our industry forward. The Professional Women in Building Council
creates a space where those leaders can connect, grow, and make a difference both
professionally and within our communities.”
The council is led by Chair Casey Barratt, Vice Chair Cat Fosgate, and Secretary Nicole Johnson,
along with a growing membership of women from throughout Jackson, Hillsdale, and Lenawee
Counties.
To celebrate its official launch, the Professional Women in Building Council is also announcing
its first community impact project: Pack a Purse.
The initiative will collect new and gently used purses filled with essential personal care items
for women residing in shelters throughout the three-county region. Suggested donations
include deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, feminine hygiene
products, lotion, and other everyday necessities.
“Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference,” said PWB Chair
Casey Barratt. “A purse filled with personal care items provides more than basic necessities. It
provides dignity, encouragement, and a reminder that someone in the community cares.”
Donations for Pack a Purse may be dropped off at the HBA office at 1815 E. High Street in
Jackson when staff is onsite. Donations will also be collected during the HBA’s Car Show &
Family Fun Night on Thursday, July 23, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Membership in the Professional Women in Building Council is open to women working in
residential construction and related industries, as well as women who support the housing
industry through business, professional, and community partnerships. Annual dues are $150
and help fund educational programs, networking opportunities, leadership development,
community service initiatives, and efforts to promote and support women in the trades.
The Home Builders Association encourages women interested in becoming part of the
Professional Women in Building Council to contact the Association for more information.
For information about Pack a Purse, Professional Women in Building membership, or the Home
Builders Association of Jackson, Hillsdale & Lenawee, contact the HBA office at 517-783-4800
or visit www.hbajmi.com.
About the Home Builders Association of Jackson, Hillsdale & Lenawee
Founded in 1955, the Home Builders Association of Jackson, Hillsdale & Lenawee represents
more than 200 members involved in residential construction and related industries across
South Central Michigan. The Association serves as the voice of the housing industry while
supporting workforce development, professional education, community engagement, and
housing advocacy throughout Jackson, Hillsdale, and Lenawee Counties.
In 2026, the Association was recognized by the National Association of Home Builders with two
prestigious Grand Awards for its 2025 performance, earning national honors for both Numerical
Membership Growth and Percentage Membership Growth. The awards recognized the HBA’s
commitment to strengthening the residential construction industry and expanding opportunities for members throughout the region.
