This week we celebrate Women in Construction Week (WIC) and the many women who work in and make important contributions to our industry every day! We are pleased to share the stories from many of the women who work and live in NH and VT. The project was created in partnership with I Build NH and NAWIC Granite State Chapter.   

Why construction?
Construction has run in my family for generations, including my father who got me into this industry. Seeing the outcome of something you put a lot of time and energy in is extremely fulfilling. I enjoy the fast pace and routines that are often changing – it keeps me on my feet!

What is your education/training background?
I started as a laborer and obtained my OSHA 10 and not too long after I got my OSHA 30. Then I started working in the safety aspect of my company and obtained my OSHA 500. I’ve also received a lot of training like CPR and First Aid.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
The fast pace and constant changes, it can be stressful but the reward outweighs it.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
Be willing to learn everyday, there are always things to learn or different ways of doing things. To be frank, tough skin is important and not taking things personally. Working in the field is stressful at times for everyone involved, so learning how to communicate effectively is important. It can be intimidating working in this environment but it's 2021 so be confident that us women are more than capable of doing this work!

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ABC NH/VT
Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a national construction industry trade association representing nearly 21,000 chapter members. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC and its 70 chapters help members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically, profitably and for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work. ABC's membership represents all specialties within the U.S. construction industry and is comprised primarily of firms that perform work in the industrial and commercial sectors.

I Build New Hampshire
I Build NH represents the construction sector of the state through the Sector Partnerships Initiative (SPI). I Build NH represents companies involved in heavy construction like municipal water treatment systems and road building, electric and telecommunication infrastructure, civil engineering, heating/ventilation/air conditioning businesses and more.

National Association of Women in Construction
The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has over 115 chapters throughout the United States, including the NAWIC Granite State Chapter. NAWIC provides its members with opportunities for professional development, education, networking, leadership training, public service and more. NAWIC advocates for the value and impact of women builders, professionals and tradeswomen in all aspects of the construction industry.