ABC NHVT News

Nicole, Building Trades Student at Northwest Career and Technical Center

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 00:05:25 GMT

Why I chose to pursue an education in the building trades:
When I first decided to join the building trades program at NCTC (Northwest Career and Technical Center), I had no intention of having a career in the trades. I had only joined the class because I wanted to learn practical life skills that I couldn't learn by sitting in a classroom. After spending 3 years in the building trades program, I have learned many skills and have recently decided I want to have a future career in the trades.

Which classes have been your favorite and why?
Throughout my time in the building trades program, I have been able to experience many different classes. Just last year I had the opportunity to take a welding class. I had never welded before and, after taking this class, I learned that I am actually pretty good at it. This class gave me the chance to experience something that I thought I'd never be able to.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
The most interesting project that I have ever worked on was the expansion of a local community kitchen (Martha's Kitchen). Martha's Kitchen is a place in my town where everyone is invited to come and get a meal free of charge. For this project, my class had to demolish the back side of Martha's Kitchen and expand it another 20 feet. We did all the work for this project, putting in a concrete slab, framing, drywall, siding, roofing, and all the electrical. This project, although one of the longest projects I have worked on, was the most interesting project I have been a part of. This project was special to me because I got to work with my classmates to help improve our own community.

What has your experience getting into the trades been like for you?
Most of the students in my class have had family members who also attended building trades program or have extensive experience in the trades already. Growing up in a house full of girls, I never really had anyone to show me the skills that I’ve learned in the building trades program. Not only has the building trades program helped me learn the skills I wanted to learn, but it has also given me a second family. My teacher, Mark Capsey, has inspired me so much over the past few years. He makes sure that everyone gets an equal opportunity to try things, no matter their skill level, and helps them learn along the way.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I hope to have launched my career and started or getting ready to start my own business. I am currently taking classes to get my CDL (Commercial Driver's License), so If I haven't started my business yet, I see myself working for a great company driving semi-trucks.

What advice would you give to young women considering entering trade school?
I have learned many things since I started in the building trades program. Advice I would give to other women considering the trades is to stick up for yourself and be your own advocate. As a female in the trades, people often look down upon you or often question you for being in the trades in the first place. Many people will overlook our skills and potential so make them see it!

Calli, Building Trades Student at Northwest Career & Technical Center

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 23:50:02 GMT

Why did you choose to pursue an education in the building trades?
I chose building trades at a young age. My older brother went through a program in New York and we went to an open house and I knew from that day on carpentry was the route to go. I love working hands-on, I love being able to use my imagination to create something helpful for others as well.

Which classes have been your favorite and why?
I loved taking Algebra and writing workshop, however, my all time favorite class will always be building trades. I love math and it has always come so easy to me. I also love writing, it's a way to just let go and escape. Building trades is so much fun and it is hands-on which is the way I learn best.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
Two other girls and I worked on remodeling a bathroom and I believe that was one of my favorite jobs. It was nice to work on a project with a small group and we really got to know one another. It was fun to reach bumps in the road and work together to get over them. I think the bathroom, when we were done, came out amazing.

What has your experience getting into the trades been like for you?
My experience overall has been pretty good. I would say having a female instructor in the trades who is successful has definitely inspired me to push myself to do my best. I have two other instructors who I’ve worked with to also improve my skills. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. As like many things in life, I’ve had hurdles to jump over. Some people aren’t used to the idea of girls being in the trade yet, but that’s okay because it’s more accepted than it used to be.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years I hope to be out in the field building homes. I hope to have found the right company and to be doing what I love.

What advice would you give young women considering entering trade school?
I would say to stay strong and don’t give up. People are going to push you around and test you, but show up and do your best anyway. Remember to bring a good attitude because even if you don’t know what you’re doing, if you have a good attitude and are eager to learn, you’ll go places. Also, step out of your comfort zone to expand your knowledge and skills.

Eve Norris, Senior Vice President with PC Construction

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 23:39:02 GMT

Why I chose a career in the construction industry:
I chose a career in the construction industry because construction has always been in my family. I always loved building with tinker toys and creating dams in the creek. My father, grandfather and uncles all had construction companies and I always enjoyed riding by their buildings and hearing them exclaim "I built that!"

What training or education did you need for your current role?
I was fortunate to be exposed to so many diverse projects throughout my career, both in the field and the office. I was able to understand how the projects operate and how each department within the company contributes to those efforts. Those opportunities provided me with countless opportunities to learn and grow.

What is a typical day like in your position?
A typical day for me involves strategizing new work opportunities and being there to ensure our projects are progressing as planned and our teams have the resources needed to do be successful. It is very hard to put into a few sentences!

What do you enjoy most about your career?
I truly enjoy the people that I am fortunate enough to work with. We have fun, we work hard and we like to build! The interaction with owners, subcontractors, architects, and engineers is also rewarding. They are all interesting and unique, and help us do our best work.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
Several come to mind but one of the most interesting was a surgical addition at a large hospital. The complex project required a 'bypass' for the main shipping and receiving dock in order to build a new surgical suite and a new receiving dock. The logistics, both internal to the hospital and on the construction site, was challenging. It was an incredibly successful outcome and that speaks to the amazing people who collaborate to build projects like these.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
If you are a woman who would like to work in the construction industry, don't hesitate. It is a great career with great people. Women are setting new standards and bringing fresh ideas to the industry. Our diverse perspectives and unique approaches are setting the bar, and I'm excited to be part of it.

Kim Lynch, Assistant Project Manager with DECCO

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 23:29:46 GMT

Why I chose a career in the construction industry because:
I chose a career in the construction industry because I was burnt out in my previous position and was looking to head in a new direction.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
I started with DECCO in an entry level position. With training and on the job experience I was able to grow into my current position as Assistant Project Manager.

What is a typical day like in your position?
In a typical day, I work proactively to see a project progress smoothly through tasks such as scheduling, purchasing, fabrication oversight, and coordinating with vendors and clients.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
The thing I enjoy most about my career is that every day is different. Every day holds new challenges, opportunities to work with and get to know new people, and to build on the skills I have attained working in the construction industry.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
The most interesting project I've worked on was the prefabrication of a two-level six-tank buffer skid. It was complex and multifaceted, which presented excellent learning opportunities every step of the way.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
My advice to women in the construction industry is to always be motivated to learn from who you can, whenever you can. The construction industry is filled with talented individuals who are a wealth of knowledge, and most are eager to pass on their experience.

Caryn Morse, Director of Media and Marketing with DECCO, Inc.

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 23:19:18 GMT

Why I chose a career in the construction industry:
I chose a career in the construction industry because in this field you have the opportunity to help create something that makes an impact in the world. I love driving by a completed building or project site and telling my kids, "I helped make that happen!".

What training or education did you need for your current role?
Technology is ever-changing, and it is important to learn new skills or software to advance your career. I have a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology specializing in Graphic Design Management. For the past 26 years, I've specialized in marketing, creative design, and communications in the construction, manufacturing, and healthcare industries.

What is a typical day like in your position?
A typical day in my position allows me to collaborate with different departments and individuals daily. Each day brings new, interesting challenges and I love being able to work on a different project every day. This gives me the opportunity to further develop my skills and expertise in being a creative marketer.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
What I enjoy most about my career is that I enjoy challenges, the opportunity to learn new things, and work on different deliverables daily. I love collaborating with people toward a common goal and seeing our hard work and progress turn into a completed project.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
I’ve worked on a variety of project sites in my career, and my proudest one was to oversee the marketing and branding of a $120M construction site at one of the largest casinos in the world. Every day thousands of people would drive by the project site and see the artwork and signage I created.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
My advice for women who want to work in construction is to be confident, ambitious, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Always try to learn something new or take on a new role.

Kimberly Depelteau, Assistant Project Superintendent with North Branch Construction

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 22:14:28 GMT

Why I chose a career in the construction industry:
I had the opportunity to do a summer internship for a civil engineering, land planning, & surveying company while studying mechanical and electrical engineering at Norwich University, and I fell in love with “dirt.” There is great satisfaction and pride in bringing to fruition something that was initially an idea, a drawing or a blueprint. Whether it’s a bridge, a hotel, a restaurant, a hospital, a high-rise, an athletic facility, an industrial building, a dormitory, someone’s dream home, etc., you’ve been a part of a dream bigger than yourself.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
My background in civil engineering and surveying created the foundation for my career. But it is my 37 years in the industry that has enabled me to be expert in some areas, while at the same time giving me the opportunity to learn something new every day.

What is a typical day like in your position?
A typical day? Every day on a project is an evolution from the day before. It doesn’t get much better than that.

What do you enjoy most about your career? I get to work with an extremely talented and dedicated team in a fast-paced environment, working toward mutual goals, all the while sharing the same vision and mission.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
In looking back at my career, I have been fortunate to be an integral part of a plethora of interesting projects such as: Camden Yards, Jack Kent Cook Stadium (now FedEx Field) and the Raven’s Stadium (now M&T Bank Stadium), two subway stations under Washington, D.C., The Super Pond and Firing Barricades on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Alta Surveys around our Nation’s Capital, projects on Fort Meade, Andrews Air Force Base, and Pax River Naval Base, and surveying thousands of acres of historical farmland, in Maryland, that satisfied the history buff in me.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
If you are considering a career in the construction industry, the imperative first step is to find a company that is the right fit for you. Here are a few questions to ponder: Do your work ethics and visions match those of the company? Is the company inclusive and diverse, respectful of your contributions? Do they encourage professional growth and development?

Is there anything else you'd like to add?
To achieve your personal and professional goals, take advantage of apprenticeship/internship programs, be confident and assertive and avail yourself of every opportunity for continuing education. And remember, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance, that is how you will learn and grow. Bringing uniqueness to your company is a team effort. No one person builds a building; it is a function of the collective’s talent, skills and personality styles.

Tiffany Stanewicz, Design Engineer with Interstate Electrical Services

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 21:44:02 GMT

Why I chose a career in construction:
I wouldn’t say I chose this career, I would say it chose me! I was fresh out of the medical field and looking for something that called to me. I was not sure at the time what that was, but an opportunity was presented to me and I went with it! I didn’t know at the time that I was going to love being a part of this field.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
I have my Bachelors in Business Management. I did not go to school for Electrical Engineering. I actually started off in nursing school. I have learned everything I know from my peers, my managers and by putting in work of my own behind the scenes to improve my knowledge.

What is a typical day like in your position?
A typical day for me can be different day-to-day, which is what keeps it interesting and exciting. Sometimes I am on the road to visit job sites; sometimes I am in meetings all day; sometimes I am working on a project or multiple projects within a day to process it to the next level; sometimes I am building or updating a family or a template for the team; and sometimes I am organizing project files. The diversity of my day-to-day tasks is one of the things I love about my job.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
My favorite part of my career is seeing projects come to life. I see them before they start, while they are in progress and when they are completed. Putting it on a drawing can be easy, but seeing what our team members in the field do to complete the project successfully is truly amazing.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
Be Biopharma, Inc. in Cambridge Massachusetts. It was my first lab project. Labs are complex in terms of powering, but it was an exciting challenge. The lighting was fun and different. I couldn’t wait to see this one when it was done.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
It's important to let the opportunity in and don’t be afraid to walk into the unknown. I would not be where I am today if I didn’t. Build your confidence and build trust in your peers and managers. They are the ones who advocate for you when you aren’t around.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Ask questions, always! You simply can not and will not know everything, but no one expects you to. Learning something new every day is what keeps your day interesting and fun. Just be yourself!

Paige Wilber, Project Engineer with The H.L. Turner Group, Inc.

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 01:40:14 GMT

Why I chose a career in the construction industry:
I grew up in a family of engineers and surveyors who worked in the construction industry. I also had an interest in math and science classes when I was in grade school which lent itself well to engineering. Through college and several internships, I learned that sitting in an office all day, every day was not something I enjoyed. These factors led me to the construction industry where I found that the variety of work and daily challenges were just what I needed.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Quinnipiac University in 2017. Prior to graduating, I interned for several different organizations including the H.L. Turner Group which hired me full-time upon completing my degree. While working for the H.L. Turner Group as a Project Engineer in their Structural Department, I completed my Master's in Business Administration through Southern New Hampshire University. Most recently, I earned my Professional Engineering license in 2021 allowing me to practice engineering in the State of New Hampshire.

What is a typical day like in your position?
My typical day as a project engineer can vary significantly and that is my favorite part about it. Some days it's designing steel, concrete, or wood structures in the office, and other days handling construction challenges on site. From going to meetings with clients and putting proposals together to compiling a set of construction drawings, my days are never the same.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
The people that I get to work with are the most rewarding part of this career. From the clients, contractors, other engineers, and vendors, I come in contact with so many different people with an array of backgrounds and perspectives. Every interaction is an opportunity to learn something new from someone with different experiences than myself.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
There are a lot of different opportunities and insights you bring to the table. Do not be afraid to share those and add the value you have gained through your experiences. At the same time, be open to learning and collaborating. The best projects are the ones where the entire team can come together and work through issues with an open and flexible mindset.

Olivia Costin, Project Manager with PC Construction

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 01:24:25 GMT

Why I chose a career in the construction industry:
I went into college knowing I wanted to study engineering, but unsure of what exactly I wanted to do with my degree. I remember going to a seminar for the civil engineering program and listening to one of the presenters talk about their work on some major bridge projects in the US. I spent a lot of time looking into construction after that and became fascinated with the concept that I could have a career helping build something out of nothing.

I chose a career in construction because I wanted to build things, I wanted to be challenged, and I wanted every day to be different.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
I have a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Clarkson University.

What is a typical day like in your position?
A typical day for me is anything but the same. My day can range from meetings with owners, architects and engineers to phase planning sessions with our crews and subcontractors. Another day maybe have me reviewing RFIs and submittals that my team are working through or helping them solve an issue in the field. I am also involved with project financials and schedule updates.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
What I enjoy most about my career in construction is seeing a project come to fruition. Being able to be a part of a team that takes a design on paper and turns that into a physical building or structure that will be there for years to come is a really rewarding experience.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
When I first graduated from college, I went to work on a billion-dollar bridge project in the NY/NJ area. The sheer magnitude of that project and the complexity of bridge work were incredibly interesting. The most interesting project I’ve worked on for PC Construction might be the construction of One Spruce Peak, a six-story building consisting of 27 luxury condo units at the base of the ski mountain in Stowe, VT.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
My advice for any woman who might want to work in the construction industry is to learn everything you can and utilize your skills to help you grow. Construction is still very much a male-dominated field, which can be daunting, but I have done well in this industry, and I have seen many others succeed as well.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I really enjoy my job and being able to pave the way for other women to come into the industry and challenge the status quo. Women make the construction industry better every day. I am so grateful for those who have come before to allow me the opportunities I’ve had, and I will continue to do what I can to lift up and support other women in our industry.

Stephanie Marx, Human Resources/Onboarding Coordinator with Cobb Hill Construction

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 01:12:03 GMT

Why I chose a career in the construction industry:
I chose a career in the construction industry because of the growth potential, the security and the atmosphere.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
The training or education that helped me in my current role was my past experience as an Operations Manager and working in human resources in my previous jobs. I am currently enrolled in the SHRM-CP course to become a certified professional in Human resources.

What is a typical day like in your position?
Each day is different from the last. The change is what keeps it fresh and fun. My days vary from employee recruitment and retention activities to writing and maintaining the company policies and procedures and outreach to local schools.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
I enjoy being in a position to help. It is both challenging and rewarding when you are able to identify an issue, produce an action plan and watch the problem resolve.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
The most interesting project I have worked on is employee recruitment during a time when skilled trades people are difficult to find.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
My advice to women wanting to work in the construction industry is that there is no need to question it, just do it! It is fast paced, always evolving and the community involvement is great to be a part of.

Caitlin Space, Project Manager with Noonan Brothers Painting

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 21:23:19 GMT

Why I chose a career in construction:
I chose a carrier in the construction industry because I have a passion for design/build. As a child, I loved playing with blocks and building forts, but it was not until high school that my 9th grade math teacher persuaded me to try architectural drafting. From there my interest only grew and eventually led me to a career in the world of construction.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
The biggest prerequisite is a general understanding of construction and the ability to read construction documents. That said, training and/or education for this can come in many forms. In my case I took architectural drafting courses in high school then went on to study Architecture in college earning a Masters degree. My position doesn’t require this level of education, but it has certainly helped me be successful.

What is a typical day like in your position?
Most of my time is split between managing current projects and estimating/bidding potential projects. There are some days spent almost entirely in the field visiting active job sites to make sure things are running smoothly and answering any questions regarding the scope of work. Other days are spent in the office managing the administrative aspects of projects while also trying to bring in more work for my team and company.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
I definitely appreciate the variety in my job, it keeps me on my toes and makes each day interesting. I also really enjoy that rewarding feeling when a project is complete and the owner and/or client are happy with the final product.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
There are actually two projects that come to mind but for different reasons, both are still on-going. The first is a project we are doing at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Just the sheer size and level of complexity is a challenge, but I am learning something new every day. The second is a project located at 60 Penhallow Street in Portsmouth. The overall design and level of detail in this project are amazing and I cannot wait to see the end result.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
There are endless opportunities in the construction industry for women, you just have to be willing to put in the time and effort, think quickly on your feet, and sometimes get your hands a little dirty.

Susane Gilbert, Special Projects Support Coordinator with North Branch Construction

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 21:11:35 GMT

Why I chose a career in the construction industry:
I grew up in a house where my dad was always building or remodeling, and my oldest brother owned his own construction business. Being in that environment made me interested in how buildings were designed, the reasons behind those designs, and how society was able to construct such amazing buildings over the years with various forms of tools and equipment.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
I started my career with a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and an Associate Degree in Architecture. From that I was able to start my career as a basic CAD designer with a design-build contractor, moving up to an architectural designer with an award-winning architecture firm. That was where I got my taste for project management and went back to school and received a Graduate Certificate in Project Management. With this certificate, I started as an assistant project manager for a developer working my way up the ladder in my 18-year tenure to senior project manager, building hundreds of high-end homes in both NH and MA. My education and training changed based on how I wanted my career to proceed, and I added education as I felt necessary for the position I wanted to achieve. I have since received my Associate Degree in Accounting so that I can better understand the numbers side of construction.

What is a typical day like in your position?
My day consists of meeting with clients to discuss their needs and desires, reviewing designs with architects and engineers, working with subcontractors on submittals, contracts, and construction clarifications, preparing bid documents and reviewing proposals, and working alongside our own team of supervisors, project engineers, accounting, and project managers.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
The best part of my job is the hands-on learning in a team-oriented environment that allows for failures along with victories. Everyone I have worked with in my career has had an impact on who I am as a project manager and where I am right now. I enjoy working side-by-side with amazing people who have varied backgrounds in construction, that are willing to teach me their knowledge so that I can grow as an individual. All of this while designing and building amazing projects, such as custom homes for amazing clients and manufacturing facilities that make our world a safer place.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
I have built hundreds of homes, condominiums, and apartments for so many amazing homeowners. But the one project that led my career on its current path was when I was given the opportunity to assist with the project administration with the architect of the Concord Hospital satellite facility at Horseshoe Pond. Being able to work alongside the project architect with submittals, RFIs, on-site walkthroughs, and meetings with the builder and subcontractors is what led me to pursue my Graduate Certificate in Project Management. Even at the time, my young sons recognized the accomplishment and loved driving by the building and yelling, “That’s Mommy’s building." I still go into those medical offices, smiling with accomplishment knowing that I helped design and build a beautiful functional building that will stand the test of time.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
I would suggest starting with acquiring a basic knowledge of construction through a technical school or certificate program. Then find yourself a company that empowers you to learn and grow while working alongside men and women who can guide you through the process. Know that you are going to have to work hard to advance, but each step brings you closer and makes you a stronger individual. Share your triumphs with other women and assist them in achieving their goals.

Is there anything else you'd like to add? Our trades and the construction industry are what continue to be the backbone of the success of our society. I am encouraged that more women are pursuing careers within these trades and that the industry is offering up those opportunities for them to succeed. Society as a whole is changing its view of our industry as male-dominated and realizing that women are key contributors to launching it into the future.

Carlye Brandl, Subcontractor Liaison with North Branch Construction

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 21:05:10 GMT

Why I chose a career in the construction industry:
I came to North Branch Construction shortly after my first son was born because the hours were conducive to my schedule. It became my chosen industry when I was able to exercise my problem solving skills and experience rewarding results.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
Education for my current role came in the form of a lot of on-the-job independent study. My current role was created, based on the needs of the company at the time. I was fortunate to be able to talk with management about what specific tasks needed attention, and which of those I could take on in my responsibility.

What is a typical day like in your position?
I have a “typical” day for every day of the week. Some days are reserved for billing, some for meetings and compliance. Truthfully, I could end up in a conference room all day with the team working on something entirely unplanned on any given day.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
The best part of the job is when we are working on a challenge, but everyone is taking a good humor approach. Meetings aren’t stuffy and formal, they are collaborative and usually there will be at least one memorable joke. There is never a question that the problem is going to be solved, and it is more than okay to enjoy the process.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
All the projects I get the opportunity to work on have an interesting aspect to them.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
I was told that I better have “tough skin” when I started working in construction. It was a little intimidating to receive that advice. As time went on it was clear to me that I very much enjoy the more candid atmosphere of my company. If I were to give advice to a woman interested in the construction industry now, I would say, there are so many different skills that are required for each project. Every person contributes. Be confident and vocal about your contributions and ideas. If you aren’t confident, find out how to change that. See if there is a class offered, talk to someone with experience to gain a better understanding.

Kayla Costa, Assistant Project Manager with Fulcrum Associates

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:26:21 GMT

Why I chose a career in construction:
I chose a career in the construction industry because I wanted to do something different. I wanted to break boundaries in an industry that is primarily male.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
I got my Bachelors in Science in Construction Management with a minor in Business Management. Both have proven to be great assets in my role. I also got my OSHA 10 and my OSHA 30 certification.

What is a typical day like in your position?
A lot of paperwork, whether it be schedules, contracts, submittals, RFIs, etc. I work directly with the owners, architects and engineers as well as the subcontractors and my own team to get the project done.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
I like that it is always changing and growing. Being on the commercial side of the construction industry, I get to be a part of anything from fit-ups and renovations to ground up construction. And the projects range through so many industries like hospitals, offices, restaurants, schools, etc.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
Don't be afraid to take charge. Show up and show them what you are made of.

Danielle Bombardier, Electrician and Instructor with Northwest Career and Technical Center

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 06:29:26 GMT

Why I chose a career in the construction industry because:
I chose a career as an electrician because I wanted to learn to fix things on my own. I wanted to be more self-sufficient and less dependent on others. The electrical trade also challenged me and presented great opportunities for learning and growing in the industry. I chose this career because I wanted to see the result of my hard work at the end of the day; I love the feeling of accomplishment and empowerment when I work at something and at the end of the day, that work helped someone's day improve. The trades also provide a great sense of job security - electricity is a basic element of our daily lives and I can do this type of work anywhere I go.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
I started my work in the trade through a program offered through Vermont Works for Women called "Step up to Electrical." This is very similar to the Trailblazers program that is now running. "Step up" was an 8-week program for women to learn the basics of construction - tool use and identification, power tool use, basic electrical components, wiring, and what to expect on the job. I went from this program straight to work for an electrical contractor and entered into the 5-year apprenticeship program. The great thing about working in the construction industry is that you typically do not need any training to enter the field. You are trained on the job, learning from the professionals.

Currently, I am teaching building and electrical trades at a career and tech center in Saint Albans, Vermont. I started teaching a year of the apprenticeship program after I was a licensed electrician and then moved into directing that program. Through that role, I would bring the electrical trade to different groups around the area, including tech centers. I met the staff at the Northwest Career and Tech Center and when a job position opened, I applied to be a full-time teacher. Now, I am back in another apprenticeship to receive my teaching license while teaching the trades at the high school level.

What is a typical day like in your position?
As a high school technical education teacher, my days are spent passing along the knowledge I've gained throughout my years in the trade. The students complete book work as well as hands-on work in the shop and graduate ready to enter the trade with a foundation of knowledge. During the summer, I continue electrical work through my own business.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
I enjoy the sense of pride I have when I complete a project. I enjoy seeing the results of my hard work and like to think that I have left an imprint in my community. I also enjoy teaching others to take pride and show respect for the industry.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
I installed an automatic touchless car wash machine in the summer of 2022. This was an interesting project because of the amount of control work and electrical work that was involved - everything from the pay station, temperature sensors, the doors opening and closing, the pumps for the water, lighting, dryers, and chemical controls. The scope of the project and the harsh chemical environment required some unique design and installation considerations.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
One thing that helped me throughout my years in the industry was meeting other women who are also in the industry. Forming a connection with mentors and peers who have experiences that relate to my own gives me encouragement and support and I recommend any woman entering a non-traditional field to do the same.

Rheana Anderson, Project Manager Assistant with Cobb Hill Construction

Sat, 04 Mar 2023 09:09:37 GMT

Women in Construction Week Profile

Rheana Anderson, Project Manager Assistant with Cobb Hill Construction

Why I chose a career in the construction industry:
I chose a career in the construction industry because I grew up around my father, uncles and grandfather who were all in the industry. They worked in different aspects of the industry from management to driving heavy machinery. I would work with my grandfather in his woodworking shop as a kid and thought that creating something out of raw materials was really cool.

What training or education did you need for your current role?
Computer knowledge definitely comes in handy. I work with a lot of programs daily and having the background knowledge helps.

What is a typical day like in your position?
Every day is a little different. The tasks that I do are generally the same but different enough to keep things interesting.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
I really enjoy the people that I work with. We all work together as a true team and build each other up. I have never worked in a place that has such a strong team.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
My advice for women who want to work in the construction industry is to just go for it. Women should feel empowered to do whatever they set out to do, regardless of the industry type. I, myself, didn't feel hindered in any way entering into this industry even though it is predominantly male dominated. Skills are skills, regardless of who has them.

Meet the ABC Young Professionals Group Chairwoman, Kayla Costa

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 00:54:59 GMT

Kayla Costa is an Assistant Project Manager with Fulcrum Associates in Amherst, NH.

Costa started in the construction industry as a student at Alvirne High School in Hudson, NH where the school offered many vocational classes students could take. She completed two years of Building Trades and learned the basics of construction from tools and equipment to framing, roofing and siding sheds.

"I wanted to try a field of work that wasn’t a “stereotypical” female role," said Costa. She knew that, working in construction, she would likely be one of the only females in the industry. "But that didn’t stop me. It was something I was interested in and being the only girl did not keep me from learning what I came to learn." Her interest in the field grew from there doing small charity projects and working for Ripaldi Construction as a laborer where she continued to learn and improve her skills.

After graduating high school, Costa knew that she wanted to stay in the construction field but was not sure in what capacity. She originally thought civil engineering and designing bridges and roadways, but discovered that was not the case. In her 2^nd year at Wentworth Institute of Technology, she switched her major from Civil Engineering to Construction Management which ended up being exactly what she was looking for.

In college, she was one of 12 females in a class of over 100 students. The support she got from professors and classmates at Wentworth helped her to excel. "I had two female professors who had both excelled in their careers in the construction industry and were two people I not only looked up to when I was in their classes, but people I continue to connect with today," said Costa. "I got to learn about heavy equipment, estimating, scheduling, surveying, material strength and analysis, project management, construction law and so much more. It has all been extremely helpful in getting me to where I am today." Costa also completed two semesters of Co-Op / internships at Wentworth, one of which was at Fulcrum where she started her internship and never left.

Working with Fulcrum, Costa has had the opportunity to experience different fields including hospitals, restaurants, supermarkets, retirement homes, apartment complexes, lab spaces, etc. She has enjoyed the opportunity to learn about all of the trades through her work on the various projects.

Costa is grateful for the incredible experience she's had and looks forward to the future. "Coming into the industry after college, I was not sure what to expect," admits Costa. "There were a lot of questions that ran through my mind. The big question was, would the industry support me as a female in construction? The answer was yes, maybe not right off the bat, but I got there. Yes, I got support, especially from my co-workers. There have been times where I get questioned, but I always had the backup information I needed and proved I knew what I needed to do and knew what I was doing."

Costa is grateful that she has had the opportunity to work alongside some strong women in the industry who have helped her become the woman she is today. "I hope to provide that kind of guidance and support for other women coming into construction," said Costa.

Working at Fulcrum has also provided Costa the opportunity to be an active member of the NH/VT chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors. She started going to the ABC events in college during her first internship. The events provided great networking opportunities.

It was through ABC that Costa learned of the Young Professionals Group, also known as ABC YPG. YPG was not only a great way to continue to meet others, but it provided a place where she could develop and further her professional development. She became a full-time employee at Fulcrum in 2021 and shortly after applied and was accepted as a member of the YPG Leadership Committee.

Costa really enjoys the opportunity to be part of a group dedicated to supporting young professionals. In 2022 she was voted Vice Chairwoman, which she says, took her position in the committee to a whole new level. "This included lining up Underwriters for the 2022 year, working alongside the Chairman and helping run our monthly meetings," said Costa. "I got to be a main point of contact as we took the 2022 year to continue re-growing the events and education chapter."

Costa is in her third year on the YPG leadership committee and currently serving as Chairwoman. This role also provides her the opportunity to be an Ex-Officio on the ABC Board of Directors. "I now get to be the one to rally the support of the more tenured people in the industry and get assistance in helping make us young professionals feel welcomed and set-up for success," said Costa. "The events and educational classes we set up are a great way for young professionals and seasoned professionals to interact, share knowledge and connect with others who may come from a different trade or field in the construction industry."

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Follow us on LinkedIn and Faceboook more about Women in Construction during WiC Week, March 5-11, 2023.

Resources to Celebrate Women in Construction 2023

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 22:55:00 GMT

This year’s Women in Construction Week (WIC) will be observed March 5-11, 2023.

Women in Construction (WiC) Week is an opportunity to highlight women as important construction industry members. Join us as we raise awareness of the opportunities available for women in the construction industry and the growing role of women in the industry.

How will you recognize the women in your company and our industry this year? Here are a few ideas:

Follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook where we will highlight local women working in construction. Click here to see examples from our 2021 campaign. Tag us if you are posting information on your social channels and we will share on our networks.
Give a shout out to the women in your company on social media during WIC Week and use hashtags like these: #wicweekNH, #wicweekVT, #wicweek2023, #NAWIC and of course, #abcnhvt. Here are examples from EnviroVantage, Fulcrum, and Methuen Construction.
Create a graphic to share on social media giving a shout out to the women in your company. You can use a free design program like Canva.com to create the image. We used Canva last year and created images for social media. Check it out and use this as inspiration if you'd like.
Visit the National Women in Construction (NAWIC) Granite State Chapter to see their upcoming programs and events.

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Hurdles and Hidden Opportunities for Women in Construction Tech

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 20:04:59 GMT

Written by Marge Hart - Vice President of Product Management at Newforma. Republished with persmission from Construction Executive June 30, 2022, a publication of Associated Builders and Contractors. Copyright 2022. All rights reserved.

Reports about the underrepresentation of women in the construction industry are all too familiar. Only a small percentage of jobs in construction are held by women. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women comprise only 11% of the construction industry workforce. That’s true not only for skilled trade or labor positions, but also for administration, support, management and leadership positions. And it’s true throughout AEC professions, not just for contractors.

Similar conditions exist in the technology industry. According to a Deloitte report, only one-third of computing jobs in the United States are held by women; fewer women are entering the industry, and women leave tech at a much faster rate than men.

So it’s no surprise that women make up a small part of the workforce in the construction technology industry. The challenges and misconceptions that hold women back from pursuing careers in AEC and technology are compounded when it comes to construction tech.

While the situation may seem daunting, the underrepresentation of women in construction technology also offers significant opportunities for women to enter the industry as well as to thrive and advance their careers.

There may be misconceptions about the number and kinds of opportunities available for women in construction technology.

EXPERIENCE

Women with skills and experience in technology don’t need construction industry knowledge to be qualified for construction technology jobs. Similarly, women with no professional technology experience who understand construction and design can offer powerful knowledge to construction tech providers.

COMMON PROCESSES

Understanding construction may not provide detailed technology expertise, but the broad insights and principles involved in each sector apply to both. In fact, women with experience in both industries recognize that the processes that drive construction and software have many elements in common. Both processes begin with identifying the needs of the client or user, consulting with them to determine what to build, establishing a foundation and then refining the design and maintaining quality checks throughout development or construction.

OVERLAPPING SKILL SETS

Just as the processes are similar, the skills necessary for success in either field easily transfer to the other. Effective communication, project and team management, lean processes and flexibility, among many other common skill sets, apply to AEC and technology careers.

INSIGHT

The fresh perspective of a deep expert in one field often provides invaluable insights in the other. Technology providers rely on the insights and expertise of AEC professionals to fine tune their product development and messaging for the building industry. At the same time, construction and design firms benefit from experienced technology professionals who can offer guidance on technology adoption, implementation, training and application.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Many companies in construction and the related technology field offer numerous opportunities for employees to continue learning and developing professional skills. On-the-job training as well as opportunities for certifications and other milestones may be supported. Additionally, professional organizations offer training and education options and may offer unique opportunities or special offers for women.

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

The wide range of opportunities available throughout the construction and construction technology sectors is often overlooked by women. Software development and engineering are not the only viable jobs for women in the technology industry. The AEC industry requires more than skilled tradespeople, engineers, and project managers. Both industries rely on project management support, customer experience teams, marketing, sales, training and HR, among others. Women interested or experienced in any of those fields may find widespread opportunities for competitive advancement with construction or construction tech companies.

While these widespread misconceptions create opportunities for women to join the construction and construction tech industries, it will take proactive efforts by AEC and technology firms to leverage those opportunities and reverse the current underrepresentation of women in these fields.

As companies consider how to enhance their competitive position, given the fierce competition for talent, promoting the wide range of career opportunities available for women in construction-related industries has emerged as a critical strategy. As businesses implement this strategy, women committed to careers in construction technology will stand out and can position themselves for recruiting, retention and promotion.

By increasing the number of women employed in construction technology, companies actively participate in dispelling the common misconceptions that act as a barrier to full representation. As women begin to fill technical positions in the construction industry, more career opportunities also become available in leadership positions.

Further, as these strategies advance, companies will recognize the competitive benefits of women’s participation in construction-related fields: the innovation and profitability linked to women in leadership positions, recruiting advantages, and the valuable experience, insight and skill sets that women from other industries can bring to construction and construction technology.

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Jennifer Landon Sworn in as Vice President of NAWIC

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 21:51:46 GMT

Jennifer Landon, vice president of education and workforce development at the Associated Builders and Contractors of NH/VT (ABC NH/VT), was sworn in as vice president of the Granite State Chapter of National Women in Construction (NAWIC) for the 2021-2022 term at their 46th Annual Meeting held in September.

The core purpose of NAWIC is to strengthen and amplify the success of women in the construction industry. They are committed to championing women to impact the direction of the construction industry.

The annual conference keynote speaker was NH State DOT Commissioner, Victoria Sheehan whose presentation focused on workforce development and partnering with associations, such as NAWIC, to encourage women to consider the construction industry for their career path.

Katie Delay of Maine Drilling and Blasting was voted in as this year’s Granite State Chapter NAWIC president. Delay said, “I am excited to work alongside Jennifer Landon, our new vice president of NAWIC Chapter 218. She brings strong leadership and energy to our organization. Jennifer understands the importance of workforce development and the current challenges faced by our industry. Over the next year I would like to see us connect with not only Women in Construction but other construction focused organizations that can help us increase awareness for all the opportunities in construction and the supporting trades.”

Landon, who has been a member of the organization since 2017, says she looks forward to continuing NAWIC’s work and fostering relationships between industry, education and community agencies.

“These partnerships are key to helping more than just youth recognize the many career paths in the construction industry,” says Landon. “We also need to also consider career changers, un-and under-employed, Veterans, and those who are taking the steps to recover and be released from correctional facilities. And of course, at the core of NAWIC’s mission, we need to demonstrate that construction is a viable career path that embraces diversity and encourages women to join the industry.”

Landon also serves as New Hampshire’s Construction Sector Advisor for I Build NH, a grant-funded initiative to promote education and careers in construction in the Granite State. She has been a member of the President’ Advisory Council for Manchester Community College as well as several advisory committees at Career and Technical Education Centers in New Hampshire and Vermont.

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National Association of Women in Construction

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has over 115 chapters throughout the United States, including the NAWIC Granite State Chapter. NAWIC provides its members with opportunities for professional development, education, networking, leadership training, public service and more. NAWIC advocates for the value and impact of women builders, professionals and tradeswomen in all aspects of the construction industry.

Associated Builders and Contractors NH/VT

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a national construction industry trade association representing nearly 21,000 chapter members. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC and its 70 chapters help members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically, profitably and for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work. ABC's membership represents all specialties within the U.S. construction industry and is comprised primarily of firms that perform work in the industrial and commercial sectors.

I Build New Hampshire

I Build NH represents the construction sector of the state through the Sector Partnerships Initiative (SPI). I Build NH represents companies involved in heavy construction like municipal water treatment systems and road building, electric and telecommunication infrastructure, civil engineering, heating/ventilation/air conditioning businesses and more.