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: Lexi S.
Company: M&R Ready Mix
Title/Position: Driver
Years in Construction: 1.5 years
What was your path to a career in construction?
I didn’t want to work in a warehouse and factory the rest of my life. Barely getting any sun and never being able to save. My dad, who has worked for M&R for several years, told me that Gerken was putting people through the driving programme to get their CDL. I always wanted a CDL but was never able to afford training so I jumped at the opportunity to apply and enroll.
What do you like most about working in construction?
Being outside in the sunshine in the summer is a definite plus. I don’t think I have ever been so tan in my life. I also work with my dad and people I have grown up around so it makes for an easy work environment.
Have you seen changes for women in construction over the course of your career?
I feel like I have not been a part of construction long enough to give my opinion on this subject. Perhaps in a few years I can adequately answer the question.
What do you hope to see for the future of women in construction?
I hope to see more women willing to join construction work. I hope that one day there are enough women in construction that the men don’t double take when they see a woman on the job site.
If you were to give young women (high schoolers) advice about beginning a career in construction, what would you say?
Since graduating high school in 2017, I have told all the younger kids in my life that have not graduated or are graduating soon, to think about life after high school. Don’t let parents, teachers, and adults tell you that you will be financially unstable for the rest of your life if you don’t go to college. I wish someone would have persuaded me to get certified in a trade before I blew 20k+ on a degree I didn’t even finish. College isn’t for everyone, but maybe trade school is. And there is no shame in not going to college like the rest of your peers.
