IBEW Local 1 journeywoman Aly Martinez to lead MOWIT

Aly Martinez, an IBEW Local 1 journeywoman with more than 10 years in the industry, has been elected to serve as president of Missouri Women in Trades (MOWIT).

Martinez, a night instructor at the IBEW/NECA Electrical Industry Training Center, is a transplant to St. Louis from Atlanta and single mom of five. In 2019, her daughter Trinity followed in her footsteps and joined IBEW Local 1.

“I am new to a leadership role for a non-profit, but I’m going to give it my best,” Martinez said. “We’ll get through it together, and I’m excited to see where the path will take us. I’m passionate about bringing more women into the trades and being a mentor.”

Martinez takes the reigns from Beth Barton, a Carpenters journeywoman who served as president of the non-profit organization for 14 years. Barton, who has been hoping to step back as president so other women could lead, will now serve as a board member.

Other officers elected to the executive board include:
• Dawn Fleming, a carpenter journeywoman, will serve as vice president.
• Elizabeth “Eli” Knight, a project manager at Green Street Building Group, will serve as secretary.
• Norma West, secretary/treasurer for IATSE (Stagehands) Local 6, will serve as treasurer.

OTHER BOARD MEMBERS
Other board members include:
• Ann Dalton, an attorney at Hammond and Shinners.
• Cassandra Williams, deputy executive director of the City of St. Louis’ SLATE program.
• Cindy Frank, a Carpenters retiree.
• Dave Baker, business and community liaison at Management and Training Corporation.
• Megan Evergreen, a Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 562 pre-apprentice.
• Shawn Jordan, McCarthy field operations manager.
• Theodis “Tony” White, St. Louis Public Schools director of career and technical education.
• Windy Chafin, an Operating Engineers Local 513 journeywoman.

Founded in 2008, MOWIT is a non-profit organization that provides tradeswomen with support group meetings, job information and referrals. Support group meetings are held the third Thursday of the month at 6301 Knox Industrial Drive in St. Louis from 4 to 6 p.m. For more information, call (636) 926-6948 or visit mowit.org.