Women In Construction Experiences

In celebration of Women in Construction Week, we asked the hardworking women of drive21 to answer a little questionnaire to get to know them better. From what got them into the construction industry to what advice they would give to those just starting out.

What was your first job in the construction industry – OR – what made you get into the construction industry?

• “My dad was an architect, spending late nights at the dining room table working on blue prints and I fell in love.”
• “My first job in construction was working for a signage design and installation company and I loved the work!”
• “My KICKASS dad is a retired contractor so it’s in my bones.”
• “My father was an engineer and my mother was an art and interior design enthusiast.”

What have been your greatest challenges as a woman in the construction industry?

• Greatest challenge has been earning respect and proving myself and my skill-set on the job. A lot of the time you’re walking into a room full of men who may or may not realize they’re questioning your every move and suggestion.”
• “Definitely, being taken seriously and earning respect. The worst is when I am present with a male colleague and the other person automatically talks to them assuming they are the PM or know more than me.”
• “Mansplaining is a constant waste of my time. When men hijack a women’s concepts/ideas and make them their own, women are treated like they are being petty when they stand up for themselves.”
• “Communicating effectively without being considered ‘bitchy’.”

What has been your proudest working accomplishment so far in your career?

• “My proudest accomplishment has been to take on projects and positions that are a little uncomfortable forcing me to learn more skill sets and grow in my profession.”
• “Working on the NY headquarters for a major sports league. The project was very elaborate and time-consuming, but the end results were amazing.”
• “Getting my OSHA certification is a big one!”
• “Learning about installation! Prior to working at drive21, I was unfamiliar with the installation process of glass graphics and many of the custom features we offer to our clients.”

What changes in the industry do you hope to see for future generations of women in construction?

• “More women in construction, better and fair pay for women in construction. I hope future generations of men in the industry take women as their equals in the field.”
• “More women in the construction industry, especially in executive roles. Women, especially young women, being treated with more respect.”
• “There are a lot of women in the industry, but they are still stereotyped in roles and tasks.”
• “More representation on construction sites outside of the office.”

In your opinion, what is the best advice you can offer to women who work in construction?

• “Know your worth and stand equally on two feet. And don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. If you feel stuck or made to feel less than you are, learn the skills or seek therapy to help you regain your power.”
• “Find motivation going into every situation knowing they may all doubt you but when you walk out of the situation you will blow them away with what you know and how you handle yourself.”
• “The best way to gain respect is by doing your job well and not being a pushover. Communicate powerfully – be confident and say what you mean, try not to say “sorry” too often.”
• “Find other women in your workplace and the industry to connect with.”
• “Pay It Forward – for the help you’ve received – pass that along to the next wave of entry-level women.”
• “Try and have an open dialogue with male counterparts, colleagues, and managers – they might not realize or understand a situation. The best way to enact change is to communicate with each other.”