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: MaKayla Harman
Company: The Gerken Companies
Title/Position: Flagger/Laborer
What was your path to a career in construction?
My path to a career in construction was growing up seeing my grandpa and mother both work in construction. Which lead me to wanting to follow in their footsteps and work in construction as well.
What do you like most about working in construction?
I like a lot of things about working in construction such as working outside everyday, being in different locations and seeing different areas, and my coworkers.
What changes have you seen for women in construction over the course of your career?
When I started in construction I didn’t think I would get the opportunity to do more than flagging, but yes working in construction I have got the opportunity to do many hands on laboring and seen many other women getting the same opportunities.
What do you hope to see for the future of women in construction?
I hope to continue to see the growth of more women in construction working beside men and would even love to see just as many women as men in the industry.
What advice would you give to a young woman considering a career in construction?
If I were to give young women ( high schoolers) advice about beginning a career in construction I‘d say don’t feel or think you’re limited in the industry. Show your dedication and determination each day and always be open to learning something new. People see that in the industry and show and teach you so many different things. I started my career at 18 in construction and have learned and done so many different things in the industry I never thought I would have got the chance too.
