Get Into Energy

Concetta Defa

Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Join our next webinar here and step into a career where your PowHER truly matters: https://getintoenergy.org/hire-powher/powher-hours/

  1. 20H AGO

    Building a Building, Growing a Baby: Motherhood in the Trades

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   What does it mean to balance motherhood and a skilled trades career? In this second Mother's Day episode of PowHER Hour, host Concetta Defa and guest Mallorie Davies, State Regulatory and Policy Coordinator, Washington and Northern Idaho District Council of Laborers, talk about managing pregnancy and parenting as a laborer, and the practical realities women face in the trades. They go over how Mallorie found her calling as a laborer, what kinds of work and support the job really involves, how to safely and confidently work through pregnancy without compromising safety,  dealing with physical changes on the job, communicating boundaries, and leveraging both union and medical support to get through challenging moments. They discuss the transition back to work after maternity leave, setting up accommodations for breastfeeding, and facing down the real issues of mom guilt, missed events, and personal growth.   Watch full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CJvERVKx-68 Last week's Mother's Day episode with Dr. Rosemary Lesser: https://youtu.be/0WXxZwScT6U   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/   Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven.    Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    37 min

  2. MAY 7

    Navigating Pregnancy in the Trades

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   Pregnancy in the skilled trades comes with unique challenges, but planning and open communication can make all the difference. In this episode of PowHER Hour, host Concetta Defa and guest Dr. Rosemary Lesser, OB/GYN physician, give practical advice on advocating for yourself, working with your doctor, and ensuring a safe, successful experience in the energy industry. Learn how to communicate your work environment and hazards to your healthcare provider, understand your rights under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, and navigate accommodations on the job. Discover the latest on physical activity and safety during pregnancy, ways to involve coworkers and supervisors for support, and tips for choosing the right physician for your needs. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0WXxZwScT6U   If you want to learn more about pregnancy and safety in the trades, visit the Center for Construction Research and Training:  https://www.cpwr.com/about-cpwr/cpwr-websites/ Pregnant Construction Worker Safety and Health: https://www.cpwr.com/wp-content/uploads/PA-Pregnant_Construction_Workers.pdf Work-Related Task Lists by Construction Occupation: https://www.cpwr.com/wp-content/uploads/Construction_Tasks_by_Occupation.pdf   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/   Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven.    Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    27 min

  3. APR 30

    From Hard Hats to Harnesses: Making Trades Safer for Everyone

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   Join host Concetta Defa and guest Liliana Calderon Castillo, Director of Health & Safety Programs, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, in this episode of PowHER Hour, for a candid discussion on the real-world realities of safety in the construction industry, focusing on the unique challenges women face. Watch to find out why safety isn't just a checklist, but a mindset that impacts workers' well-being both now and into retirement, and learn all about the ongoing problems with ill-fitting PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), the shift from the outdated "one size fits all" mindset, and how evolving safety standards and equipment are making the workplace more inclusive.  Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wpI6KADaB7A Click the link to watch our previous episode with Liliana Calderon Castillo: https://youtu.be/8R8AAJiLrj0   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/ Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven.   Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    35 min

  4. APR 23

    The Art and Strength of Women Bricklayers in Modern Construction and Energy

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   Join host Concetta Defa and guest Liliana Calderon Castillo, Director of Health & Safety Programs, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, in this episode of PowHER Hour, as they dive into the dynamic world of bricklaying, skilled trades, and the essential roles these crafts play within the energy industry. Learn all about how Liliana, a professional bricklayer and safety director, built her career from an unsure young apprentice into a leader and mentor for women in the trades. They cover the importance of sisterhood and peer connection, the range of allied crafts—like tile setting, terrazzo, and cement masonry—under the BAC umbrella, and they share firsthand experiences, career insights, and concrete tips for women looking to succeed in non-traditional pathways. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8R8AAJiLrj0 👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/ Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    30 min

  5. APR 16

    Exploring Apprenticeships: Building Energy Careers and Breaking Misconceptions - Part 2

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor In part 2, host Concetta Defa and guest Cindy Sanderfur, Communications Manager, electrical training ALLIANCE (etA), talk about apprenticeship funding, program options, and how workers move from apprentices to journeyworkers—all while adapting to new technology and workforce needs. They go over the role of local training centers, ongoing education for journeyworkers, and how the apprenticeship system supports both students and the community.  Learn all about how the Electrical Training Alliance (ETA) shapes the future of electrical apprentices through cutting-edge curriculum and industry partnerships, how their training keeps up with industry changes, what it costs to become an apprentice, and the special programs available for veterans and career changers. Watch this (Part 2) on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wfrwJiMbSVo Part 1 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/blLqzBGRZ28   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/   Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Join our next webinar here and step into a career where your PowHER truly matters: https://getintoenergy.org/hire-powher/powher-hours/   This episode features the webinar "Apprenticeship 101 – Earn While You Learn" from March 31st, 2026. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    36 min

  6. APR 9

    Exploring Apprenticeships: Building Energy Careers and Breaking Misconceptions - Part 1

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor Apprenticeships are a foundational step in building a rewarding career within the energy and construction trades. In this episode of PowHER Hour, host Concetta Defa and guest Cindy Sanderfur, Communications Manager, electrical training ALLIANCE (etA), break down what apprenticeship really means, who it's for, and how to prepare. They analyze how modern apprenticeships are structured, how they differ from college, and common misconceptions about the trades. Find out what qualifications are needed, how National Apprenticeship Week brings focus to new opportunities, and which traits and skills matter most for aspiring apprentices. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/blLqzBGRZ28 Watch Part 2: https://youtu.be/wfrwJiMbSVo   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/   Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Join our next webinar here and step into a career where your PowHER truly matters: https://getintoenergy.org/hire-powher/powher-hours/ This episode features the webinar "Apprenticeship 101 – Earn While You Learn" from March 31st, 2026. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    32 min

  7. APR 2

    Women of Iron: Exploring Careers, Skills, and Success in the Ironworking Trades - Part 2

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   Interested in what it takes to launch a successful career as an ironworker? In part 2, host Concetta Defa and guests Adriana Lopez, Assistant Training Director, Architectural Metal Trainee School, and Kasey Clouse, Journeyworker Ironworker, Field Safety Manager, talk about dealing with diverse personalities on the job site, why hands-on experience matters when moving into roles like safety manager or training director, and share real stories of mentorship and support, highlighting how a solid network can make all the difference for women and newcomers in the industry. They break down the application and apprenticeship process, including required traits, math skills, certifications, and details about the interview and physical evaluations, as well as common concerns about seasonal work, unemployment, and financial planning, and explain the value of union membership, benefits like health insurance, and maternity leave. Watch this (Part 2) on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FYwwSb8cvjE Part 1 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QhxUWaC9lCQ   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/   Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Join our next webinar here and step into a career where your PowHER truly matters: https://getintoenergy.org/hire-powher/powher-hours/   This episode features the webinar "PowHERful Women: Ironworkers – Steel, Spark, and Soul" from March 17th, 2026. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    31 min

  8. MAR 26

    Women of Iron: Exploring Careers, Skills, and Success in the Ironworking Trades - Part 1

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   What does it really mean to be an ironworker? In this episode of PowHER Hour, host Concetta Defa and guests Adriana Lopez, Assistant Training Director, Architectural Metal Trainee School, and Kasey Clouse, Journeyworker Ironworker, Field Safety Manager, talk about their career journeys, the realities of being an ironworker, and insider tips on building successful paths as women in the trades. They go over the key differences between welding techniques, the variety of jobs you might do in the field, the importance of safety and proper rigging, what it's actually like working with rebar, and how skills like critical thinking, asking questions, and effective communication set top ironworkers apart. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QhxUWaC9lCQ Watch Part 2 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FYwwSb8cvjE   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/   Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Join our next webinar here and step into a career where your PowHER truly matters: https://getintoenergy.org/hire-powher/powher-hours/   This episode features the webinar "PowHERful Women: Ironworkers – Steel, Spark, and Soul" from March 17th, 2026. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    36 min
See All (31)

Trailer

About

Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Join our next webinar here and step into a career where your PowHER truly matters: https://getintoenergy.org/hire-powher/powher-hours/

Information

  • Creator
    Concetta Defa
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Get Into Energy