Michael, Quality Control Technician, Valley Asphalt
This week, I Build America Ohio is celebrating all of the men and women who make up Ohio’s construction workforce during the first-ever Construction Inclusion Week. The modern construction industry doesn’t look like the construction industry of previous generations. It’s made up of men and women of different backgrounds, cultures, faiths, orientations, and interests. The diversity of our workforce makes us stronger, and understanding the biases we all bring to our daily work is essential for creating an even better future for Ohio’s workforce. All week, I Build America – Ohio will be sharing the stories of various people in our state’s workforce who are working together to build Ohio.
Name: Michael
Company: Valley Asphalt
Position: Quality Control Technician
Why does workplace diversity and inclusion matter to you?
- Why does workplace diversity and inclusion matter to you? The population is changing and becoming more diverse. The pool of talent we will be hiring from will be more diverse. It is important that as we bring diverse talent into our company, that they feel their opinions are valued and respected. By having more diversity in our company, we will have better decisions that will be made because of the diverse experiences and knowledge being brought to the organization.
How can construction benefit from a more diverse workforce?
- Construction can benefit when they have people of color in leadership roles that are contributing to the success of the organization. By having that diverse representation, it gives other people of color within the company, hope that they too can have a successful career at our company and that the company values diversity.
How do you advocate for others?
- I advocate for others by giving credit when they do something and letting higher ups know, speaking up for people. Everyone has strengths and weakness that we can learn from.
How can others advocate for you?
- Others can advocate for me by recognizing my contributions for our company, by investing in my development as an employee, and by helping me reach my career goals.
Think about the future workforce of construction. Who do you think will be involved in it?
- Hopefully it will be a highly diverse group in construction. Where the pay is equal, people have opportunity to grow, their knowledge and communication is accepted. People in the industry must want change and be willing and open to new ideas brought forth. Change is good, but we must be in the mindset to accept it and move on.
