Heather Leahey, Office Manager, WIC Week Profile

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.  Heather Leahey

Why construction?
It kind of landed in my lap and I have grown to love it. There's still so much to learn. Home improvement has always been of interest to me so it made sense. I have done roof repair, electrical, plumbing, painting, drywall and floor installation since owning my house 20 years ago. And, I love using power tools any opportunity I can get.

What is your education/training background?
I had some college focusing on Art History, but never finished because I wanted to raise my kids.

I started at a young age painting and wallpapering houses with my grandfather at his painting business. I cleaned houses with my mother for years and was an aid for the visiting nurses. I have had the opportunity at my current job to learn some accounting, first aid and currently working on OSHA training.

How did you find yourself working in the construction industry?
A very good friend that worked at Fulcrum mentioned in passing that they were looking for someone to fill the office manager position and I thought it would be a nice change from my aid job. Well, I was hired and I have been with Fulcrum since November of 2016.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
I love the family atmosphere. I really enjoy the people I work with and the opportunity for growth in the company is more than I had imagined.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
Go for it! I have never felt I have any less to contribute because I am a woman. If you believe in yourself and you're confident you can do anything you want.

###

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.