For women in accessibility construction

The women who build access, building each other up.

To connect, mentor, and empower women working in residential and commercial accessibility-related construction, while inspiring the next generation of women to enter, grow, and lead in the industry.

Woman working at a laptop in an office
Two businesswomen discussing work together at a laptop
Drill bits and workshop tools arranged across a workbench

Who it is for

Every role that makes a building work for everyone.

Ramps, lifts, bathrooms, entrances, and the businesses behind them. New to the trade or decades in, there is a place for you here.

  • ManufacturingLifts, ramps, components
  • InstallationIn the field
  • ConstructionRes. & commercial
  • DesignPlans & specs
  • SalesClients & dealers
  • OperationsRunning the work
  • Executive leadershipSetting direction

What we do

Four things we set out to do.

Two women sharing ideas and reviewing work at a laptop

Mentorship

We connect experienced professionals with women entering or advancing in the industry.

Industry awareness

We promote career opportunities in accessibility-related residential and commercial construction.

Professional networking

We build relationships across manufacturing, installation, construction, design, sales, operations, and executive leadership.

Leadership development

We prepare emerging women leaders to shape the future of the network.

Explore mentorship & networking →

How it works

Simple to join. Built to be handed forward.

Free to join

Participation is free. No dues, fundraising, or financial transactions are anticipated at launch.

Volunteer led

An independent network run by people who do this work every day.

Shaped by members

Emerging leaders help decide what we do next and where we put our energy.

Made to last

The founders plan to develop new leaders and pass the torch to the next generation.

Start small, create meaningful connections, and build a foundation that the next generation can carry forward.

Our guiding principle

What Is Ahead

Our First 90 Days.

A proposed launch sequence. Dates and session details will be announced.

Days 1–30

Establish The Foundation

The four co-founders align on the charter, responsibilities, and practical steps for launch.

Days 31–60

Build The Initial Network

Invite women across the industry and gather mentorship interests, expertise, and needs, aiming for about 15 to 30 participants.

Days 61–90

Make The First Connections

Host an inaugural virtual networking and mentorship session and facilitate initial mentor–mentee introductions.

Looking Ahead

Shape The Next Six Months

Invite emerging leaders to help choose two or three priorities for the following six months.

See What Is Ahead →

Co-founders

Started by four women who know the work.

Michele Popelka, co-founder of Women Building Access

Michele Popelka

CFE

Co-Founder · Brand President, Next Day Access | Founder, MPact Strategies Consulting

Cindi Petito, co-founder of Women Building Access

Cindi Petito

OTR/L, ATP, CEAC, CAPS

Co-Founder · Director of Home Accessibility, VGM

Liz Morand, co-founder of Women Building Access

Liz Morand

Co-Founder · CEO of North America, Human Care

Loralee Bronte, co-founder of Women Building Access

Loralee Bronte

CAPS

Co-Founder · VP of Marketing & Operations, Next Day Access | Co-Founder, Blackthorn Strategy

The four co-founders collaboratively guide the network’s initial strategy, development, and activities, with the intention of progressively transitioning responsibility to emerging leaders.

Meet the founders →

Join the network

Raise your hand.

Tell us a little about yourself and what you are looking for. It is free, and you can be as involved as you like.

Send your interest →
Women collaborating around a conference table