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?
Why not... It really kind of just fell into my lap through one of the owners here and has been working out great.

What is your education/training background?
I am a highschool graduate and have no construction training to speak of.

How did you find yourself working in the construction industry?
The opportunity just happened to fall into my lap. I was brought in to help organize the tool room and 6 months later I am running it.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
I love the company I work for and the people. It is truly one GIANT family. I also enjoy the challenge of tools because 2 1/2 years ago, I really didn't know much of anything about them. Being able to supply all of our jobs with the tools that are needed is pretty cool. I do all the purchasing of tools for the company and the employees personal tools.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
Reconstructing the tool room. I wish I had taken before and after pictures.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
Do it!!! It is so satisfying holding your own around a bunch of men. At times, it does take a thick skin. And that at times makes it that much more rewarding.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I never thought I would have thrived in this environment, but it was without a doubt the best move I made. If you don't give something new a try, you may never know where you truly belong in your career.

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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.