The pandemic has forced many companies into recovery and resilience.

National Institute of Building Sciences CEO Lakisha A. Woods, CAE, recently spoke with ASAE Stronger By Association podcast host Mary Kate Cunningham, CAE, about NIBS’ work for the built environment.

Woods was joined by three female leaders from the association community to discuss their work to fuel recovery in the transportation and infrastructure industry. They include Nicole Vasilaros, Senior Vice President of Government and Legal Affairs for the National Marine Manufacturers Association; Kristin Smith, Senior Vice President of Communications for the Association of American Railroads; and Laura Perrotta, CAE, President and CEO of the American Highway Users Alliance.

“We are focused on ensuring that the places where we live, work, learn and play remain safe, are built with sustainability and the best use of technology in mind,” Woods said. “We have not slowed down. We've actually gotten busier, and we are continuing to do our job as conveners to bring the industry together so that we can find solutions to what's happening.”

In the spring, NIBS launched a series of COVID-19 virtual town halls, bringing in subject matter experts to discuss reentering buildings, changes to commercial space, air quality, healthy buildings, and mental health.

Among future top priorities, Woods said workforce diversity is high on the list.

“Diversity is so important, especially in leadership roles in the built environment,” she said.

At the end of October, NIBS plans to host a diversity summit with association leaders and C-suite executives. The goal is to discuss actions and recommendations to impact the industry. Stay tuned for more information.