I Build America – Ohio is dedicated to celebrating the women of construction. Women are a vital part of our industry, and there are female leaders at all levels of construction work. From foreman to company owners and executives, construction wouldn’t be the industry it is without its female employees. Join us and our partners in celebrating the success of women within your own company and across the nation during National Women in Construction Week 2023.
Name: Jody K.
Company: Beaver Constructors
Title/Position: Project Engineer
Years working in construction: 7
What was your path to a career in construction?
I am the third generation for my family at Beaver. When I was younger my dad would drive us to a completed job to show us all the work they did and what it became. At a young age I knew I wanted to go into construction. My daughter now gets so excited to see the jobs I’m working on. I went to Stark State for Construction management.
What do you like most about working in construction?
Everyday is different and every project is different. Some days you are in the office all day and others you get to spend out on the site watching everything come together.
Have you seen changes for women in construction over the course of your career?
Yes, when I first started, I questioned myself if this was the right career for me because I never thought or seen a woman in a higher role in the construction industry. Now I see more and more women not only in construction but in lead roles. I love when I walk on a site and see a female as the foreman or superintendent.
What do you hope to see for the future of women in construction?
I hope to see more women in the field. I want to be able to walk onto any jobs site and find a female working.
If you were to give young women (high schoolers) advice about beginning a career in construction, what would you say?
It can be very discouraging as a female wanting to enter a male dominant career, but everyone is very excited to help the new generation grow into the position they desire. There is now a bigger support group of females to help you along the way.
