Breaking Down Barriers - Women in Construction
Women have a vital and growing role in the construction industry. At O’Shea, we celebrated Women in Construction Week in March by highlighting some of our team members, who are breaking down barriers and going after what they want.
Building a Future in Construction
Brittany Hunter (pictured left) had never considered a career in the trades. She spent “too many years” working on her bachelor’s degree in psychology but then had difficulty finding a job after graduation.
“I met a business agent from the laborers' union, and he mentioned becoming a laborer. So I went and took the test, and I’ve been with O’Shea since 2014,” she recalls. “I didn’t see myself with a career as a laborer, but I’m glad I’m here now!”
Jackie Ritter, on the other hand, grew up remodeling homes with her family. She received her degree in architecture but decided she’d like to have a more hands-on role with building. "When I graduated from college, I pursued a position in project management for a local construction company. I've been hooked on the work ever since!" she says.
Today, Jackie is a project engineer with O’Shea working out of the Champaign office.
Creating a Purpose-filled Career
For Jackie, creating a physical product that you can see and experience is the biggest joy of her job.
“I also love the problem-solving aspect of my particular role; I find it incredibly rewarding and it keeps me mentally challenged,” she shares. “Plus it’s exciting never knowing what the day will hold. You can’t get bored with your work because there is always something new happening.”
Brittany echoed that sentiment.
“I enjoy the pace of things – everything moves fast and it’s different every day,” she says. “It’s not a desk job, so I’m active. I like the demolition and the outside work – that’s not something women typically do, and I like to be challenged.”
Challenges on the Job
As in any career, construction jobs can present challenges. Brittany occasionally has to problem-solve to make up for her short height while on the jobsite.
“For example, I might not be able to put my arms around a cabinet like someone else could so I have to find a different way to move the cabinet. But everyone is accommodating and we partner often up anyway, so there aren’t as many challenges as I thought,” Brittany says.
Lori Kerker, Manager of Construction Administration for O’Shea, said that at the start of her career, she felt like she might have more to prove as a woman. She has enjoyed the challenge of rising to meet higher expectations – as well as encouraging other women in construction to succeed.
“I think one of the greatest challenges is the workforce shortage,” she says. “Hiring and developing women in all positions, from labor to leadership, in the field and in the office, is one way we are facing the problem head on. Women can do anything they set their mind to.”
Constructive Advice
So what would these construction workers tell other women who are interested in construction as a career choice?
“If construction, or related fields, is something you are interested in, pursue it!” Jackie encourages. “Gender does not play a role in my position and should not impact anyone’s interest in this career path.
“Beyond gender, just be sure you like fast-paced environments with multiple personalities,” she adds. “If that’s something you enjoy and you can prioritize and communicate well with others, then it’s a great field to be in!”
Brittany and Lori both offer similar positive advice: Go for it.
“It may be different, but being a laborer is not hard to get into and I think it’s fantastic,” Brittany shares. “I’d love to see more women on the workforce.”
Deconstructing Stereotypes
Jackie acknowledges that she doesn’t see herself so much as a “woman in construction” but just as another individual in the construction field.
“Despite the dated reputation of construction from 20+ years ago, this is no longer a men’s club. Women are being embraced for all of our strengths and the unique perspective we can bring to the table,” she points out. “Choosing a career in construction is not any different than choosing a career in medicine, teaching or accounting.”
Lori was given the opportunity to pursue a career in construction nearly nine years ago, and “I wouldn’t change it!” she says.
“Being a woman in construction gives me a sense of pride. I’m working in a job that can change people’s quality of life,” Lori says.