Welcome to Our Amazing Region!

A Community Built on Connection, Trust, and Growth

A Community Built on Connection, Trust, and Growth

Some of the greatest opportunities in my career came because someone believed in me before I believed in myself. That’s why leadership and representation are so important. Every leader has the ability to open a door, share their knowledge, and inspire someone to reach beyond what they thought was possible. Through my career and my involvement with NAWIC, I’ve learned that the best leaders create future leaders.

-LaJuan Counts, Director

Join Us for the Business Relationships and Lasting Connections

Some of the greatest opportunities in my career came because someone believed in me before I believed in myself. That’s why leadership and representation are so important. Every leader has the ability to open a door, share their knowledge, and inspire someone to reach beyond what they thought was possible. Through my career and my involvement with NAWIC, I’ve learned that the best leaders create future leaders.

Annual Spring Forum & Fall Leadership

Connect, Learn, and Lead at Our Regional Events

Beyond the many opportunities offered through local chapters, the North Central Region proudly hosts two major annual gatherings: Spring Forum and Fall Leadership. These regional events bring together members from across our six states to exchange ideas, strengthen professional networks, and gain new inspiration for their careers.

Each event features dynamic speakers, engaging workshops, and meaningful discussions designed to support both personal and professional development. Whether you are seeking new insights into leadership, industry trends, or ways to contribute to NAWIC’s mission, you will find value in every session and connection made.

We look forward to welcoming you to an upcoming North Central Region event where learning, collaboration, and friendship come together to elevate women across the construction industry.

LaJuan Counts

Wayne State University, Detroit

North Central Region Director

I am an accomplished construction and facilities executive with over three decades of experience leading complex capital improvement, infrastructure, and facilities projects in the public and higher education sectors. I currently serve as the Senior Director of Design & Construction Services at Wayne State University, where I provide strategic leadership for the planning, design, procurement, and execution of capital projects that enhance the University’s academic, research, and campus environments.

Throughout my career I have built a reputation for delivering high-impact projects while fostering collaboration among stakeholders, consultants, contractors, and institutional leadership. I am recognized for my ability to transform organizational processes, improve project delivery, and build high-performing teams grounded in accountability, customer service, and operational excellence.

I am a passionate advocate for women in construction and leadership development, and have devoted significant time to mentoring professionals and creating opportunities for others to succeed. As President of NAWIC Detroit Chapter 183, I championed workforce development, industry partnerships, student outreach, and professional growth initiatives. My leadership is extending beyond the local chapter through regional service and advocacy, reflecting my unwavering commitment to strengthening the construction profession and expanding opportunities for future industry leaders.