Anna Martin's journey into the ironworking trade began 16 years ago with a desire to provide a better life for herself.

She joined the Iron Workers Local 29 apprenticeship program in Portland, Ore., where she quickly developed a deep respect for the skill, strength and teamwork that define the industry.

Being an ironworker is challenging, but it's rewarding work that literally shapes the skyline of our communities, and Martin is proud to be part of that tradition.

Today, Martin also serves as the director and co-founder of U-PACT Oregon, a registered pre-apprenticeship program designed to prepare incarcerated women and men reentering society for successful careers in the construction trades. U-PACT provides hands-on exposure to multiple trades, industry certifications, life skills training and direct pathways into registered apprenticeship programs.

One of the most rewarding parts of Martin's work is helping people see themselves in roles they never imagined possible.

When women see other women thriving in construction, it helps break down barriers and expands what they believe they can achieve, Martin said. U-PACT focuses not only on technical skills but also financial literacy and the practical tools needed to succeed in the construction industry.

"Being a successful woman in construction means more than personal achievement: It means opening doors for others," Martin said. "It means creating opportunities, building supportive networks and ensuring that the next generation of people entering the trades feel capable of building careers they can be proud of."

The construction industry needs skilled workers, and women bring talent, resilience and leadership to the jobsite.

Martin said she is proud to be part of a movement that is helping to reshape the future of construction.