March 1 through 7, 2026, marks Women in Construction Week®, an annual celebration led by the National Association of Women in Construction since 1960. WIC Week® recognizes the contributions of women across the construction industry and reinforces the importance of diversity, equity, and opportunity in shaping the built environment.

At Lee Mechanical, we are proud to join this nationwide movement. As a leading provider of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and refrigeration solutions across Wisconsin, we understand that innovation, safety, and long-term success are driven by people. This year’s theme, “Level Up,” reflects what we see every day: when women are empowered to lead and grow, entire organizations and communities move forward.

Strong field execution is at the core of every successful project.

Sam Howe, Electrician, thrives on the variety and challenge that each project brings. Whether wiring new commercial buildings or troubleshooting complex electrical systems, she takes pride in delivering safe, reliable power solutions that customers depend on.

Sam values the constant learning that comes with the electrical trade and embraces evolving technologies and standards that shape today’s industry. She also recognizes that great outcomes are built on teamwork. Collaboration in the field ensures safety, precision, and efficiency, and Sam’s commitment to working alongside her teammates helps level up every jobsite she supports.

Lexi Degroot, Sheet Metal Journeyman, works on large-scale commercial projects ranging from data centers to healthcare facilities. Her days start early with safety-focused planning and hands-on coordination in the field.

With three years at Lee Mechanical, Lexi takes pride not only in her craft, but in teaching the next generation of tradespeople and helping her crew deliver precise, efficient installations. Her commitment to mentorship and craftsmanship reflects the future-focused mindset behind this year’s “Level Up” theme. By investing in quality work and the growth of others, Lexi strengthens both projects and people.

Behind every successful project is strong coordination and organization.

Stephanie Gainer joined Lee Mechanical in January 2025 as a Project Coordinator. With over 15 years of industry experience, Stephanie brings exceptional organizational expertise and a passion for teamwork to her role.

Her ability to manage details, maintain communication flow, and support field and office teams ensures that projects stay aligned and efficient from start to finish. Stephanie’s collaborative approach strengthens partnerships and reinforces Lee’s commitment to delivering high-quality MEPF solutions.

In 2025, Angie Waechter joined Lee Mechanical as a Construction Manager in Fire Protection. With more than two decades of experience in the fire protection industry, Angie quickly became known for leading with integrity, collaboration, and purpose.

She brings a calm, disciplined approach to complex projects and a people-first mindset to every jobsite. In an industry where precision and safety are essential, her steady leadership ensures teams perform at their highest level while maintaining strong communication and trust. Angie exemplifies what it means to level up performance while strengthening the community around her.

Professional growth is another powerful way Lee Mechanical lives out the “Level Up” theme.

Heather Ladwig joined Lee in 2021 as an Accounting Assistant. Through dedication, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the company’s financial operations, she steadily advanced. Her progression from Accounting Assistant to Assistant Controller and now Controller reflects both her professional development and Lee’s commitment to promoting talent from within.

Heather’s journey demonstrates that construction success is built not only in the field but also through strong operational leadership behind the scenes.

Women across Lee Mechanical are helping elevate projects, teams, and performance standards.

Katie Fritsch, Chief Financial Officer, joined Lee Mechanical in 2020 and brings more than a decade of experience in finance and mechanical fields. As CFO, she plays a critical role in ensuring operational strength and strategic growth. Katie thrives in Lee’s collaborative culture.

Her leadership strengthens not only Lee’s financial foundation but also its culture of respect and shared accountability.

Women in Construction Week® is about more than recognition. It is about momentum. It is about creating clear pathways for careers, fostering safe and inclusive workplaces, and building a future workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

At Lee Mechanical, these leaders are among the 32 women who contribute to leveling up our company every day. Across finance, field leadership, skilled trades, project coordination, operations, and administration, women play a vital role in delivering the safe, high-quality mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and refrigeration services our customers rely on throughout Wisconsin.

As we celebrate WIC Week® 2026, we reaffirm our commitment to investing in people, promoting opportunity, and creating an environment where every team member can grow, lead, and succeed.

When we level up individuals, we level up our company.
When we level up our company, we level up our communities.
And together, we build a stronger future for the construction industry.