We’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on one of our incredible program sponsors, Rosendin Electric.

Founded in 1919 in San Jose, California, Rosendin Electric has grown into one of the nation’s leading electrical contracting companies, and we’re lucky to have a local office right here in Sterling, Virginia. We have loved getting to know the amazing people behind the company and experiencing their commitment to making a difference firsthand.

Not only does Rosendin Electric generously sponsor Girls on the Run NOVA, but through The Rosendin Foundation, they’ve also supported us with two grants in the past two years! Formed in 2020, The Rosendin Foundation was created to amplify the company’s mission of giving back and creating a positive impact in communities across the country. Though the foundation began in San Jose, its reach extends nationwide, empowering organizations like ours to inspire confidence, strength, and joy every day.

One of the incredible women at Rosendin, Violet Carter, a Foreman with over 30 years of experience in the electrical industry, shared her powerful perspective on what it means to be a woman in the trades. Violet recently visited one of our Heart & Sole teams to talk about her career journey and the importance of representation in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Here’s what Violet had to say:

“As a woman who has been in the electrical trade for over 30 years, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for women to be represented in the skilled trades.

I started in the field at a time when it was rare to see another woman on a job site. Over the years, I’ve worked in various roles from a field worker, safety coordination to project management and now workforce and career development. Through it all, I’ve learned that this work isn’t just about wiring buildings or completing projects. It’s about building confidence, independence, and a future.

Women are important in the trades because we bring a different perspective to the job. We solve problems differently, we communicate differently, and we often lead differently.

Our presence helps shift outdated mindsets and proves that skill and strength are not defined by gender. When women show up on job sites, in classrooms, or in leadership roles within the trades, we make it clear: this work is for anyone who’s willing to show up, work hard, and keep learning.

The trades also offer something that isn’t talked about enough a real alternative to the traditional college route. Many young women don’t realize that they can earn a solid income, gain lifelong skills, and support a family without taking on student debt. The trades offer stability, growth, and the satisfaction of seeing the tangible results of your work. I can drive down the street and point to places I helped build. There’s pride in that.

Of course, it’s not always easy. The hours can be long, and the weather doesn’t always cooperate. But the reward is in the work itself and in proving, time and time again, that women can not only do this work, but thrive in it.

Women in the trades matter because we open doors not just for ourselves, but for every woman coming up behind us. We show what’s possible.

And after three decades in this field, I can say with confidence: there is a place for women here, and the industry is better because of it.”

Violet’s story is a beautiful reminder that confidence, courage, and determination can truly light the way, both on the job site and in life. Her words embody the same spirit we strive to instill in every Girls on the Run participant: that strength comes from within, and with the right support, we can achieve anything we set our minds to.

We’re endlessly grateful to Rosendin Electric for helping us empower more kids to find their voices, believe in their abilities, and lead with joy. And to Violet, for inspiring our community with her story and shining example of what’s possible when women lift each other up.

Together, we’re building something powerful, one spark of confidence at a time.