Women in Construction Gala Highlights Negotiation Strategies and Celebrates Achievements

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The 2026 Women in Construction Gala, hosted by the Ontario General Contractors Association, focused on empowering women in the construction industry through negotiation strategies and recognized outstanding contributions with inaugural awards.

During a recent keynote speech at the 2026 Women in Construction Gala, hosted by the Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA), Leslie Dibling, director of organizational development at AMC Services, and Agnes Watkinson, founder of AMC Services, shared poignant real-life instances highlighting the struggles women face in the construction sector. Dibling recounted experiences where decisions made by women were dismissed, leading to a cycle of self-doubt and emotional turmoil rather than productive decision-making. She emphasized that the industry has progressed beyond merely ensuring women have a seat at the table, stating, "You’re here because you belong here."
Giovanni Cautillo, president of the OGCA, addressed the audience, affirming the association’s commitment to pushing boundaries with each gala. The keynote discussion aimed to equip women in construction with practical tools for negotiating their worth in the workplace. Dibling and Watkinson posed an essential question to the attendees: Are women negotiating from a position of power? Watkinson, who brings over ten years of industry experience, asserted that being present at the negotiating table inherently grants power, but it is crucial to know how to leverage that power effectively.
The speakers highlighted that employees often waste significant time—up to two hours and 26 minutes each day—engaging in emotional labor rather than productive problem-solving. Watkinson pointed out that much of this stems from ego, which can cloud judgment and hinder effective communication. Dibling, who has spent 19 years in the construction industry, urged attendees to detach their ego from negotiations, advocating for a data-driven approach that leads to more favorable outcomes. She stated, "Stop believing everything you think. We can tell ourselves a really good story."
The gala also marked the presentation of the inaugural OGCA Women in Construction Awards. Melissa Ruck from Gillam was honored with the Field Operations Excellence Award. The speakers discussed the SBAR methodology—Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation—as a framework for addressing issues factually, without the influence of personal feelings. Watkinson advised that emotions should not serve as negotiating currency, emphasizing the importance of presenting facts in a manner that benefits the organization.
Both Dibling and Watkinson stressed the significance of identifying a 'floor' in negotiations, which defines the minimum acceptable outcome. They encouraged women to document their achievements and understand the needs of others in the negotiation process. "Aim higher. You’re going to aim for the best. You’re going to be flexible," Watkinson stated, suggesting that each negotiation can elevate one’s position for future discussions.
The speakers concluded by reinforcing that women should negotiate based on their roles and responsibilities, rather than their gender, as they are shaping the industry's future. Dibling remarked, "You’re negotiating for generations to come," while Watkinson encouraged attendees to maintain momentum in their advocacy for equitable representation in the industry.
OGCA president Giovanni Cautillo opened the gala by introducing Alexia MacLeod, who is set to become the association's first female chair in September. He reiterated the OGCA's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, aspiring for a balanced representation of genders in the industry. MacLeod, who co-owns and presides over Somerville Construction, not only introduced the keynote speakers but also announced the winners of the inaugural awards.
Nicole El-Sayah from EllisDon received the Community Involvement Award, and Sharon Vogel of Singleton Urquhart Reynolds Vogel LLP was honored with the Mentorship Award. MacLeod noted, "The women in this industry are fierce," reflecting on the ongoing evolution and increasing inclusivity within the construction sector. The gala served as a platform to celebrate achievements while also addressing the challenges women continue to face in navigating their careers within a traditionally male-dominated field.

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