As we celebrate Women in Construction (WIC) Week, we embrace this year’s theme: “Together We Rise.” This theme highlights the collective strength, unity, and growth of women in the construction industry, emphasizing their vital role in shaping its future.
In Ohio, the contributions of women to construction are both significant and inspiring. Their dedication and expertise have been instrumental in driving the state’s infrastructure and development projects forward. WIC Week offers an opportunity to recognize these achievements and encourage more women to pursue careers in this dynamic field.
Here are some of the stories of the women of Ohio’s construction workforce. Together, we rise!
- Name: Everree
- Company: Shook Construction
- Title/Position: Operator Local #18
- Years working in construction: 23
- What inspired you to pursue a career in construction, and what has kept you motivated along the way?
Everree is the first member of her family to become a union operator and that started with her love for horses and working around the barn. Everree’s motivation began with her getting accepted into the union with no outside help and her apprenticeship instructor told her that she would not “make it” in this type of work.
- How have mentorship and collaboration played a role in your success in the construction industry?
Everree has had multiple mentors in her career but there are two of them that had the most impact on her. First, was a senior instructor that was more of a father figure, and then a senior female operator that she could consult with giving advice on being a woman in a man’s world. Everree’s success has all been self-earned on the job with a strong family support group always behind her.
- What challenges have you faced as a woman in construction, and how have you overcome them?
Everree has always been underestimated and second guessed since the beginning. She believes she has changed those who felt that way by polishing her skill set and proving to them that she could do it.
- Can you share a moment when you felt especially empowered or supported by your colleagues in this industry?
One of the moments she felt empowered the most was when she was underestimated by the iron workers in the beginning of a project, and then was requested to stay with them until the job was finished due to the complexity and safety work practices she brought to the table.
- What advice would you give to young women considering a career in construction?
Everree’s advice to the younger generation is “Don’t come to work looking for a husband” and “Don’t be so thin skinned”.
- How do you see the role of women evolving in construction, and what changes would you like to see in the future?
Everree doesn’t believe the stereotype that “Women can’t be leaders in this so-called man’s world.” She hopes the biggest changes will be the breaking of the stereotypes that are given to women in the construction field.
- What does the theme ‘Together We Rise’ mean to you, and how do you apply it in your work?
Everree believes in “Together We Rise,” united we stand and divided we will fall, and she applies that daily by being supportive and perfecting her craft.
