PWC holds annual trade fair Nov. 13. (Transcripts).

"We've had an outstanding response to the trade fair this year. Clearly, the strong turnout we're seeing tonight shows that our industry recognizes that we can't retreat into isolation. We need, instead, to gather together to promote opportunities," said Lenore Janis, president of Professional Women in Construction at the organization's eleventh annual event, which was held on Nov. 13. "While many construction projects planned and budgeted prior to the slowdown and the terrorist attacks are continuing, no industry can remain immune indefinitely to a faltering economy. This is an ideal time to enter the marketing mood."

The exhibitors and visitors at the fair agreed that the event was most welcome. Leigh Mulroy, a project manager with Jacques Whitford Company, Inc., an environmental company, noted that "There's been a disconnect between people who need services and those who provide them. Yet there are also new opportunities for growth. This is an excellent time for people and businesses to meet each other.

Debbie Hines, president of Greentree Consulting Inc., said, "There's a lot of business, a lot of exposure, a lot of excitement in this room. This is a great forum. It shows how resilient Americans are. We'll keep on doing our job and become stronger and better at it."

Many businesses traditionally attend PWC's trade fair as part of an outreach effort on behalf of women and minority-owned businesses.

Lorina Henry, administrative coordinator with the New York City Construction Authority, said, "We do outreach, seminars, workshops. One of our functions is to help W/MBE's get certified. This is a way to come into contact with these businesses."

Sponsors of the Grand Networking trade fair included Altus Metal & Marble Maintenance, AMEC, Bovis Lend Lease, DMJM+HARRIS, Greaty NYC LECET, Greentree Consulting, Meadows, Metropolitan Transp. Authority, MSD Visuals, NY Power Authority, NYC & Vicinity Carpenters Labor Management Cooperative Trust Fund, NYC Housing Authority, and NYC School Construction Authority.