LIXIL Americas Partners With Tools & Tiaras

NEW YORK, NY — On July 13th, LIXIL hosted a hands-on Industrial Design and Engineering workshop for summer camp participants of Tools & Tiaras, as part of its sponsorship of the non-profit organization.

During the workshop, girls from 6-14 years of age learned about the design and engineering elements of plumbing and designed their own showerheads using modeling clay. Campers also worked in teams with LIXIL designers and engineers to assemble a faucet together. LIXIL team members spoke to the girls about their experience in their fields and how they found their place in a male-dominated industry.

Labor Shortage, Gender Gap

Part of the workshop involved participants designing their own showerheads.

“The plumbing industry faces a severe labor shortage, as well as an overwhelming gender gap," said Debbie Drury, Leader, Communications & Corporate Responsibility, LIXIL. "In the U.S., in 2020, only 2.3% of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters were women. While we have a ways to go, I am continuously inspired by the good work happening across the US in tackling gender inequality.

"And I can think of no better partner than Tools & Tiaras to help collectively drive more awareness and passion among women in pursuing fulfilling careers in plumbing... At LIXIL, we are committed to empowering ambitious girls with the confidence to break down the social barriers that stand in their way, and equip them with the hands-on design, engineering and plumbing experience to get there.”

Tools & Tiaras

Tools & Tiaras’ mission is advancing the interests of young girls and women who dream of pursuing a career in the construction industry, empowering them to build confidence to break down the social barriers that stand in their way. Founder and Chief Visionary Officer Judaline Cassidy immigrated to the US from the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago, and has dedicated the last 25 years of her career to inspiring and mentoring young females.

Cassidy was one of the first women accepted into Plumbers Local 371 Staten Island, New York, the first woman elected to the Examining Board of Plumbers Local Union No. 1 NYC, and ushered in the first Women's Committee within her Union, becoming its first President. Cassidy’s daughter shares the same passion: she is a 31 year old sheet metal worker who followed in her mom’s footsteps of pursuing a trade career

Bringing Ideas to Life

“LIXIL has been a long-time partner, supporter, and friend of Tools & Tiaras Inc. Debbie Drury and her amazing team always bring their A-game for our girls, and they completely knocked it out of the park with today’s plumbing workshop that focused on industrial design and engineering," said Judaline Cassidy. "Our girls got to learn that the fixtures they use in their homes every day—like faucets and shower heads—start with ideas and designs that make them both functional and beautiful.

"Our girls loved this workshop because they were the creative driving forces, using their imaginations to come up with colors, finishes, and designs. With hands-on components from start to finish, the girls got to take their ideas and bring them to life with modeling clay, which was so cool. I am grateful to the inspiring and talented all-women team of LIXIL designers and engineers who led this workshop and helped our girls see all of the STEM-based careers they can pursue in my favorite field… plumbing.”

LIXIL is a proud sponsor of Tools & Tiaras, and hopes that this partnership helps to move the needle in getting more women and young girls interested in a plumbing career while helping to break down the social barriers that may stand in the way of achieving their goals. This collaboration is seen as part of a larger effort to address the labor shortage and lack of diversity in the plumbing industry.