TDIndustries, Inc. (TD) is proud to share that the Empowering Women in Industry initiative has nominated Fort Worth Construction Partner and 'Welder Woman' Kaylin Leas for Tradeswoman of the Year. Empowering Women in Industry is an online community with the mission to connect, educate and empower women to not only inspire the next generation of leaders, but provide a community for those currently leading. The conference is Thursday, Oct. 21, in Chicago.

A former high school rodeo champion, Leas began welding on the job by befriending other welders and learning the trade. After diligent practice, she passed her first welding test in 2013. She also had welding experience in the power, gas and ethanol processing industries.

Empowering Women 2021 is a one-day conference that includes an awards gala and industry fashion show. The conference will be filled with keynotes and interactive workshops around authentic leadership; overcoming limiting beliefs; mentoring; negotiation; change management; diversity, equity and inclusion; networking and other topics designed for women in male-dominated industries.

"I think the women who are successful in construction need to be the voice for future women who have the same desire — whether as a welder, an electrician, plumber or ironworker," Leas said. "Women need to know that it's OK to want to work with their hands. If being in construction is what you want to do, then do it. Don't let anything stop you."

TD is committed to diversity and inclusion in the construction industry. To learn more about Kaylin and her career, visit TD Talks. To engage with Empowering Women in Industry and this week's conference nominees, go to empoweringwomeninindustry.com.