The “Supply Industry” and its affiliated member companies put tremendous effort and resources into the development and growth of women across all aspects of respective businesses.
As the national organization serving wholesale distributors and vendors of Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Piping products (PHCP) and Industrial/Mechanical Pipe, Valves, and Fittings (PVF), the American Supply Association is your partner in equity and inclusion.
Although our industry has historically been considered a “male-dominated” area, it is fast becoming a place where women are building highly successful careers in the areas of Distribution, Retail, Manufacturing, Sales and Marketing, Human Resources and Warehousing.
One of the truly unique things about this division is that it is for women at all levels of the organization. Women who otherwise don’t attend events can travel to meet other women and truly get a feel for the industry, not just what they’ve experienced in their workplace. The opportunity to network and create relationships, whether it is finding a mentor, becoming a mentor or just making new friends, the options for what this division can offer only continues to expand.
“Being a woman in a male dominated industry can be a little intimidating, so I was thrilled to hear about the women’s division and joined right away! It has been great to network with other women who are dealing with the same workplace challenges and share each other’s experiences and ideas on how to move forward. I have already made some great friendships through my involvement with this division and know it will continue to be a great resource for me personally, my career and our company.”
—Mary Tuohey Fahy
Collins Pipe & Supply Co., Inc. East Windsor, CT
Why consider a career in the “Supply Industry”?
Our industry is expanding at a tremendous rate. With new technologies, innovative leaders and committed member volunteers, it is becoming more dynamic every day. The women leaders in our industry have been blazing the trail for many more who are currently rising through the ranks of industry member organizations.
As a progressive trade group, the American Supply Association sees tremendous value in the expanded roles women are occupying. Collaboratively, we must ensure the path progresses and benefits our industry and member-companies’ profitability and performance. The focus of this Division is on how our industry can empower women and provide them with the opportunity to connect—through education, information, and engagement
Featured Industry Leader
Laura Kohler, SVP HR, Stewardship & Sustainability
From an early age, I was influenced by the life and legacy of some amazing, strong women who left an indelible mark on the core of who I am. Perhaps most significant was my mother, Linda Karger Kohler, who instilled in me this important lesson: “To whom much is given, much is expected.”
This lesson has led me to seek opportunities to make meaningful contributions towards the greater good. Water and sanitation are the foundation of our Kohler Co. business, but globally, 2.1 billion people lack access to safe water.* Women and girls in low- or middle-income countries are disproportionately affected by the lack of safe water. Collectively they spend 200 million hours each day gathering and carrying water,* a tiresome and often dangerous journey that takes away from their education, well-being and future.
“Efforts around safe water and sanitation help provide women and girls with the time and improved health they need to pursue an education, take advantage of opportunities and help create a more just world.”
—Laura Kohler
Read more about Laura Here