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: Lauren D.
Company: M&R Ready Mix
Title/Position: Concrete Mixer Driver
Years working in construction: 9
What was your path to a career in construction?
I had originally got my CDL to drive a school bus and shortly after realized that wasn’t for me. I came in contact with a great company that gave me a chance in the construction industry. They helped put me on the right path to obtain more knowledge and experience.
What do you like most about working in construction?
What I like most about working in construction is there is always something to learn. Everyday is a new experience and adventure, although challenging at times, but that’s what keeps it interesting.
What changes have you seen for women in construction over the course of your career?
Through my years in construction I have noticed an increase of women in the industry but it’s still a very male dominant field. There are many more opportunities for women than there were when I first started but there is still a lot of disrespect for women. I had a wise woman once tell me “You have to work harder and be better than the men to receive respect.” I didn’t understand what that meant until I experienced it myself and she wasn’t lying. It’s not like that everywhere or all the time, especially if you’re lucky enough to work with a good group like I do now.
What do you hope to see for the future of women in construction?
For the future of women in construction, first and foremost I would love to see PPE made for women. It would also be refreshing to see more women of all ages to feel confident entering a construction field. More respect is another issue that I hope to see improve. Many women have been working alongside men for years and that’s one thing that hasn’t changed, but what has changed is we have proven many times that we are capable of the work.
If you were to give young women (high schoolers) advice about beginning a career in construction, what would you say?
To any young women considering a career in construction, do it. There are way too many opportunities to pass up. The personal growth and knowledge that you’ll experience is something that you don’t want to miss out on. I got into the industry at a young age and I never looked back, construction can do things in your life you couldn’t imagine. It’s said that women are more detail oriented, and in construction that makes a huge difference considering most things we do requires attention to detail. Don’t let the fact that it’s a male dominant industry steer you away, we can change that together.
