In honor of the U.S. Navy’s Women’s Equality Day, the 22nd Naval Construction Regiment (NCR) is proud to highlight the exceptional women within its ranks who are leading the way in shipbuilding. These trailblazers are not only breaking barriers, but are setting new standards for excellence in the Seabee community, proving that leadership, skill and dedication know no gender.

Profiles in leadership

Among the outstanding women of the 22nd NCR is Supply Officer Lt. Krista Yarbrough of Copperas Cove, Texas. In her 7 years of service, Lt. Yarbrough has been on the front lines of numerous critical missions including logistics and contracting support for all subordinate commands of the 22nd NCR, including Naval Mobile Construction Battalions (NMCB) 11, 1 and 133. Her leadership style is characterized by a commitment to mentoring and developing the next generation of Seabees.

“As a woman here, I have to work harder than the men to prove myself and my position. All that matters to the Seabees is that I get my job done and move forward quickly. This community has taught me to think on my feet and find creative solutions to rapidly evolving projects and changing priorities,” Yarbrough said. “This tour is a great exercise in agility, and I’m never bored working with a world-class team of Chiefs while being able to share leadership perspectives that we can all take with us on our next tours and in life.”

Mastering challenges and overcoming barriers

Equipment Operator 1st Class Edith Juarez, of Sierra Vista, California, has been in the Navy for 19 years and has made a significant impact within 22 NCR. As one of the few women in her field, EO1 Juarez has not only excelled in her technical duties, but has also taken on the role of mentor to junior personnel. As Embark Leading Petty Officer, she is responsible for the personnel movement of hundreds of Sailors for multiple deployed battalions.

“Since I joined the Seabees in 2005, the Seabees and the Navy as an organization have made great strides in the right direction,” Juarez said. “Women are built differently and have different needs, and now that the Navy recognizes those needs, it is attracting more women into the Seabees career field. Like the recently updated parental leave policy that extends leave to 12 weeks after the birth, adoption or accepted placement of a child in a long-term foster home.”

Paving the way for the future

The 22nd NCR also recognizes the achievements of Lt. Leigh Ann Mehs, of Hatton, ND, company commander, Advanced Based Construction Company 1. Mehs is responsible for three primary functional areas, including maintenance oversight of Camp Mitchell, Seabee projects around Rota, and Officer-In-Charge Discrepancy projects that benefit the local community. Her leadership approach is based on collaboration and continuous learning, qualities that have earned her the respect of her peers and subordinates.

“The biggest challenge is being open to change and being able to adapt. Every tour can be different, whether it’s personality or skills,” said Mehs. “You have to find ways to improve yourself and keep moving forward.”

Leading into the future

As the 22nd NCR continues its mission, the contributions of these remarkable women serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the U.S. Navy. Their leadership, determination and success not only pave the way for future female Seabees – they strengthen the entire Naval Construction Force and enhance its ability to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

Naval Construction Regiment (NCR) 22 exercises command and control of units assigned to the Naval Construction Force (NCF) and oversees the operational deployment and logistical support of deployed NCF units in the U.S. European Command, U.S. Africa Command, and U.S. Central Command areas of operation.