The Central California Coast Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) will host a presentation Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012 by Diane Auten, MA. Auten will present an overview and discussion on gender issues in the area of communication and everyday interactions with members of the opposite sex. The engaging, research-based presentation will reveal subtle gender differences and teach the listener how to be more effective when dealing with the opposite sex.

Auten learned the importance of communicating effectively when she earned first her bachelor’s and then a master’s degree in Communications Studies. Today, Auten is a full-time college instructor, business owner of Competent Communications and consultant in the area of communication. She specializes in a variety of training and keynote topics which include diversity training on gender and cross generational communication, the power of first impressions, effective networking strategies, preparing presentations and more.

NAWIC is a not-for-profit organization providing educational and networking opportunities to local women affiliated with the construction industry. Those who attend include students, company owners, managers and personnel who work closely with construction related issues in their organizations. Monthly meetings are held the third Tuesday, of each month at 6:15 p.m. Cost to attend this month’s dinner meeting at the Historic Santa Maria Inn is $26 for members and $32 for non-members. The public is invited to attend. To RSVP, please contact Donna Castaneda by Monday, Jan. 16, 2012 at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone (805) 260-5782.