To connect and inspire women working in the premium cigar and pipe industry, the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) has launched the Women of PCA, a new business resource group led by women and designed to foster the professional and personal development of the association’s women members.
“The Women of PCA was born out of a single, powerful moment at our annual trade show. As I talked with a small group of women, we recognized the power of working together to all grow in our businesses. By bringing all of us together—retailers, manufacturers and industry partners–there’s no telling what we can accomplish,” commented Kathleen Kelly of Queensbury Cigar and Pipe
“Women have a strong voice, and as business leaders we have a responsibility use that voice. By working with women across the PCA, we have the opportunity to grow and protect our industry be it through mentorship, community engagement or in collaboration with PCA’s advocacy efforts,” added Teresa Wessling of Georgetown Tobacco and Pipe Stores, Inc.
The mission of the Women of PCA is to create a network for women across the association including retailers, manufacturers and industry partners to share ideas, support one another, and create programs to contribute to the professional and personal development of the association’s women members. This effort is supported by the PCA Board of Directors and leadership team.
“Having dedicated business resource groups to help retailers flourish is part and parcel of fulfilling our mission of growing specialty tobacco retailing,” said Scott Pearce, PCA executive director. “By providing welcoming avenues for engagement, participation, and guidance, the PCA can provide significant assistance to the greater retail community, support entrepreneurs, and cultivate excellence in retailing. The Women of PCA is a great pathway for more members and those seeking careers and opportunities in specialty tobacco retailing to get involved,” said Pearce.
Current members of PCA are invited to join and get involved with the Women of PCA. At this year’s PCA24 trade show, held in Las Vegas from March 22-25, 2024, there will be a special opportunity for those interested in learning more about Women of PCA and its work. On March 25, 2024, from 4-5 p.m., a Women of PCA networking and happy hour event will be held at the PCA Lounge on the trade show floor. Women interested in getting involved in the Women of PCA group are encouraged to attend this event, which will include drinks, cigars, and a raffle sponsored by Boveda, S.T. Dupont, Smoker Friendly, and Micallef. Come and meet the Women of PCA’s committee chairs and share ideas for how this group can best support women in the premium tobacco industry.
For questions about Women of PCA or to join its mailing list, contact Teresa Wessling and Kathleen Kelly at womenofpca@premiumcigars.org.