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: Jessica
- Company: John G. Johnson Construction Company
- Title/Position: Senior Marketing Coordinator
- Years working in construction: 9
- What inspired you to pursue a career in construction, and what has kept you motivated along the way?
After years of working in marketing in various fields, I was drawn to marketing in the construction industry because it combines creativity with the opportunity to showcase tangible, lasting projects. What keeps me motivated is telling the stories behind each build- highlighting the craftsmanship, teamwork, and impact our projects have on communities. Seeing how our work shapes our communities and helps clients achieve their vision makes every project exciting.
- How have mentorship and collaboration played a role in your success in the construction industry?
Mentorship and collaboration have been essential to my success in the construction industry. Learning from experienced professionals has provided valuable insights, while collaboration with project teams ensures that every project is executed with precision and purpose. In marketing, working closely with our construction teams allows me to effectively tell their stories, showcase their expertise, and highlight the impact of our projects. The shared knowledge and teamwork within the industry continue to inspire and drive my growth.
- What challenges have you faced as a woman in construction, and how have you overcome them?
One challenge I’ve faced as a woman in construction is moving beyond an entry-level marketing role and establishing myself as a bigger part of the industry. Early on, it was difficult to break out of the more single task-oriented responsibilities. I overcame this by taking initiative – seeking out new opportunities to lead marketing efforts, bringing fresh ideas to the table, and demonstrating the impact of strong marketing in construction. Building relationships with leadership, advocating for my own growth, and continuously expanding my skills helped me carve out a path forward. Now, I use my experience to support others looking to grow in their careers as well.
- Can you share a moment when you felt especially empowered or supported by your colleagues in this industry?
One moment that stands out was when we launched our company’s holiday gift as part of a client-focused campaign. It was a milestone for JGJ, and the support from leadership and colleagues throughout the process was incredible. Their trust in the marketing team’s vision, willingness to collaborate, and shared excitement about strengthening our brand made me feel truly empowered. It reinforced the power of teamwork and the impact of a unified message in the construction industry.
- What advice would you give to young women considering a career in construction?
My advice to young women considering a career in construction is to embrace the opportunities, be confident in your abilities, and never be afraid to take up space in the industry. Construction offers a wide range of career paths, from accounting to project management to marketing to skilled trades, and your unique perspective is valuable. Seek out mentors, build strong relationships, and always keep learning. Most importantly, believe in yourself; your contributions can shape the future of construction!
- How do you see the role of women evolving in construction, and what changes would you like to see in the future?
The role of women in construction is continuously evolving, with more women stepping into leadership, project management, and skilled trade positions than ever before. As the industry becomes more inclusive, I see women playing a larger role in shaping its future through innovation, collaboration, and mentorship. Moving forward, I’d love to see even greater representation, more mentorship opportunities, and a stronger focus on creating supportive environments that encourage women to pursue and thrive in construction careers.
- What does the theme ‘Together We Rise’ mean to you, and how do you apply it in your work?
To me, “Together We Rise” means that success is built on teamwork, collaboration, and lifting each other up. In construction (and in marketing), no project is accomplished alone. It takes a dedicated team, strong partnerships, and a shared vision to create something truly impactful. I apply this theme in my work by fostering connections, highlighting the achievements of our teams, and ensuring that our messaging reflects the collective effort behind every project. When we support each other, we all succeed.
