b'MinnesotaNorth Dakota Tradeswomen Build Nations COLLEEN BIBEAU RECOGNIZED AT WOMEN BUILDING SUCCESS EVENTFOR OUTSTANDING TRADES WOMAN IN LEADERSHIPColleen Bibeau, an instructor at the Laborers Training Center (LTC) since 2013, was recognized by the Women Building Success Committee in June for her advocacy efforts. Shes long been a supporter of more women joining the trades, and this nomination is a culmination of her consistent message that women can have successful careers in the construction industry.Colleen\'s leadership has made a significant impact on the lives of many. She joined LiUNA 26 years ago as a single mother of three, seeking better opportunities to provide for her children. After working in the field for 14 years, she transitioned to teaching at the LTC, where for the past 12 years she has inspired many more individuals with her positive and uplifting attitude.As an instructor, Colleen goes above and beyond to ensure that laborers are well-prepared to face all challenges on a job site. She is one of the most requested instructors at the LTC, having delivered over 15,000 hours of instruction. Colleen is also an ANSI-certified instructor with LiUNA International Training. This recognition is truly well-deserved, Colleen!!!15TH ANNUAL TRADESWOMEN BUILD NATIONS (TWBN) This year Local 563 sent 23 members to the conference whichwas our largest to date.SHES NOT WAITING, SHES LEADING By Nicole Ranallo The title above was the theme and mantra of the 15th Annual Tradeswomen Build Nations Conference held September 19-21, 2025 in Chicago, IL. While some might think the theme was aggressive or tacky, realistically it is just serving as a reminder for tradeswomen to advance within their roles. Women have a hard enough time getting into the trades and advancing is even more challenging. Women currently make up about 11% of the construction workforce. That number seems low until you hear that only 4% are active in the field. With such small numbers this conference can ignite the feeling of solidarity, support, and hope. The energy, guest speakers, laughter, and networking all make this event what it is. Nothing can describe walking into a room of 6,000+ tradeswomen chanting their union\'s chants and yelling in support of one another. At that moment, in that space everyone is there to support and uplift. Those feelings carried me through the last year, and I was so thankful to be a part of it again. I will use this energy to carry me through the upcoming year.By Samantha Moore and Sarah Schostek"Nothing truly prepares you for the power of standing shoulder to shoulder with over 6,000 union tradeswomen from across North America and Canada. Its not something you can fully grasp through stories, photos, or even video. This kind of energy must be felt to be understood.Attending Tradeswomen Build Nations was more than an event, it was a homecoming, a movement, and a reminder of who we are. Women represent less than 4% of the labor workforce. We are often underestimated but never outworked. We are the builders, the makers, theThe 2026 TWBN Conference is in Houston, TX from October 9th11th, 2026. doers. And when we come together in solidarity, our strength is undeniable.If you are interested in attending the conference and want to be sponsored by Local 563, This experience expanded our understanding of what it means to be part of a sisterhood. It redefined solidarity, not just in the workplace, but in life. It reignited our sense of leadership, unity, and pride. Pride in the work we do every day and pride in standing with thousands ofplease contact Kim Schrupp at kschrupp@local563.org or call 612-436-7593. She can tradeswomen who are not just building the nation but building futures, careers, and legacies. provide you with more information and add you to the list to receive an application in"We had so much to gain from this event and we will share with those around us, both in the office and out in the field." the spring of 2026 for consideration to attend the conference.26 local 563 laborers union /563 news /2025-2026 newsletterlocal 563 laborers union /563 news /2025-2026 newsletter 27'