What happens when safety gear finally fits women the way it should? It increases safety and changes more than comfort...it changes confidence, credibility, and culture. In this episode, Michele Moran, Senior Portfolio Leader at J.J. Keller & Associates, talks about how the company decided to start designing a safety line for women.
From attending Women in Construction events to gathering hands-on feedback from tradeswomen, Michele shares how J.J. Keller’s women’s line of PPE came to life ...and why fit matters not only for safety and performance but for belonging in the industry.
Michele and I also dig into the creation of JJ Keller's Women's Safegear Reversible Puffer Vest (featured in the 14%ers October Anniversary Box) and how collaboration between women-led initiatives and established manufacturers can drive real change in construction culture.
Key Takeaways:
- Ill-fitting PPE doesn’t just create safety risks, it sends the wrong message about who belongs.
- When manufacturers listen to women in the field, design gets smarter, safer, and more inclusive.
- J.J. Keller’s women’s PPE line proves that inclusion and profitability aren’t mutually exclusive.
- Proper fit impacts both comfort and credibility
- The partnership between 14%ers and J.J. Keller shows what’s possible when companies work together to improve the industry.
Mentioned in this Episode:
Call to Action:
If you loved your J.J. Keller reversible puffer vest from the 14%ers Anniversary Box — share it, review it, and show your company what real inclusion looks like. And if you’re not yet a 14%er, join the waitlist for the next box at 14percenters.com.
Looking for a Construction Industry Speaker that has Real Construction Experience? Someone your audience can truly relate to? Check out my Keynotes at ConstructionBarb.com and let's start a conversation to ensure your next event gets rave reviews! Barb@ConstructionBarb.com
Have you heard of the 14%ers Quarterly Subscription box curated SPECIFICALLY for Women in Construction? THE January 2026 Box is Sold Out, but you can Join the Waitlist to be the first to know when the April box goes on sale!
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