“Being a woman in construction is both challenging and empowering – challenging solving project issues and empowering being seen as an equal in a male dominated industry.”

How long have you worked at Cell-Crete?

I’ve worked at Cell-Crete for a little over a year.

How did you get started in this industry?

I kind of stumbled into construction. I was a stay-at-home mom who homeschooled her kids. When my kids got older I started working in the Dairy industry. Before I moved here, I was looking for something more challenging. I joined Fisher Holdings (our parent company) in the contracts department and stayed for two years. While in that position I handled the contracts of my now boss Diego Villegas. One day, I noticed a position available with Cell-Crete to work in dispatching, I talked to Diego about my interest in the job and I got it!

What future career goals do you have for yourself?

I am about to finish my Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership in the Spring. I see myself using this degree to grow within the company. My future goal is to become a project manager.

Why did you decide to go back to school and get your bachelor’s degree?

In the past I worked as a children’s ministry leader, training and leading others is something I am good at. With this degree I want to help others grow and find what they want to do.

What is it like being in this industry as a woman?

Being a woman in construction is both challenging and empowering. The role itself is challenging solving project issues and empowering because I work in a department that is mainly men yet I am seen as an equal on their same playing field.

How has Cell-Crete helped you succeed as a woman in the construction industry?

Cell-Crete has helped me succeed by giving me the opportunity to grow within the company. We have an open door policy here, I always feel comfortable going to someone for help or advice.

Have you had any role models or inspirations in the industry?

There are two people that come to mind. I look up to my boss Diego because I have learned so much from him. I also look up to Lou because whenever I chat with him, he always has a memorable teaching moment. One of the best lessons I have learned from Lou is to always be alert to little details, ones that other people might look over.

What has surprised you the most about being a woman in construction?

I was surprised by the number of women that work in construction. Coming here from the Dairy industry, I was worried about how women might be perceived. Now I know that women are treated as equals and are also represented in top positions.

Are there any common myths or misconceptions about women working in construction that you’d like to address?

I think there’s a misconception that women aren’t aggressive enough to get the job done. Women aren’t as frail as some people think.

Why should construction companies hire more women?

I think women bring a different perspective to the table. Also, we can handle a lot and are great multitaskers. I think the industry would be surprised to see what we can do and accomplish.

Is there anything you think the industry can do to welcome more women?

As an industry we can encourage more women to join by holding events and teaching them to not be afraid of the challenge or worry that they don’t have the skill set. We can even work to recruit more women at the high school level, rather than just at Universities.

What do you enjoy most about working at Cell-Crete?

I enjoy the people I work with, not only in my department but also in the company as a whole. I love the culture of a family-owned business.

Do you have any advice or tips for other women in this industry?

Never be afraid to go for a position that will challenge you, you will learn more about yourself and might discover hidden talents or skills.

Tell me about yourself. What kinds of things do you like to do in your free time outside of work? Do you have any hobbies or interests?

I’m an outdoor kind of girl so I really enjoy hiking and taking my kids camping or fishing. My favorite activities are those that get me away from the city noise.