Rebecca Heustess Named Tradeswoman of the Year at 2025 Empowering Women in Industry Gala

Steve Jurrens
Oct 2
2 min read

Award ceremony collage: Woman in a sparkly dress celebrates winning "Tradeswoman of the Year." Purple-lit room, applause, and joyful hugs. — "Celebrating success: A shining award ceremony at 'Empowering Women' where the Tradeswoman of the Year, Rebecca Hostess, is celebrated with applause, a heartfelt speech, and joyous moments on stage in a sparkling gown."

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Rebecca Heustess, a leading mentor and developmental figure in the construction and tile trades, was named the Tradeswoman of the Year at the Empowering Women in Industry 2025 Awards Gala, held this week in Chicago. The award celebrates a woman who demonstrates exceptional technical skill and commitment to advocacy within her trade.

Woman in a glittering gown raises arms, standing in a purple-lit room. Seated man claps. Ceiling has geometric panels.

The two-day Empowering Women in Industry conference, held on October 1-2, 2025, is dedicated to connecting, educating, and empowering women across various industries. The climax of the event was the Awards Gala, where Heustess was formally presented with the honor.

Woman in pink dress presents at podium with laptop covered in stickers. Projected slide reads "Beyond the Pink—A Tradeswoman Story." — Rebecca Heustess, in a vibrant pink outfit, presents "Beyond the Pink—A Tradeswoman Story" at an indoor conference, sharing insights and personal experiences as a tile foreman.

Heustess, a resident of Henry, South Dakota, is a highly accomplished professional with over 16 years in the trades. Several key roles distinguish her career:

· Certified Tile Installer (CTI): This credential signifies a high standard of skill and professionalism in the tile industry.

· Ambassador for the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA): In this capacity, she promotes best practices and industry standards.

· President of NAWIC Dakota Prairies Chapter #394: Heustess founded the local chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and currently serves as its President, working to provide visibility, mentorship, and support for women in construction.

Woman with pink hair in a silver dress jubilantly holds an award on stage beside a podium labeled "Empowering Women." — Rebecca Heustess passionately celebrates on stage while holding an award at the Empowering Women in Industry event, embodying inspiration and achievement.

Heustess also contributed to the conference as a speaker, presenting "Beyond the Pink: A Tradeswoman's Story." Her session offered an honest account of her journey in a male-dominated field, focusing on her resilience, the breaking of "glass ceilings," and the crucial message of lifting others as one rises.

Two women hug on stage, one in a sparkling gown. A third woman stands by a podium with "Empowering Women" text. Floral decor is visible. — Two women embrace warmly on stage at an "Empowering Women" event, as an audience member looks on, highlighting a moment of solidarity and celebration in a supportive atmosphere.

Heustess and her professional group, the NAWIC Dakota Prairies Chapter #394, have also been recognized for their support of local endeavors, including Northeast Radio SD's startup efforts. Most recently, they held an Industry Appreciation Mixer as one of several organized local events throughout the year.

The local NAWIC chapter also conducts several charitable events that involve the community's youth, aiming to give back and engage them in the industry.

The collective achievements and advocacy work of Heustess and her peers continue to advance the role of women across the trades.

Two women pose playfully with an award. One is in a sparkly dress making a rock gesture; the other wears glasses, holding the trophy. — Rebecca Heustess celebrates a joyous achievement at an award ceremony, exuding excitement and confidence. One woman, in a shimmering gown, strikes a playful pose, while the other, dressed in a chic pantsuit, proudly holds an award.