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An Unplanned Path to Construction Leadership
In this episode, Laura Korte, Vice President of Construction at VR Mechanical, shares her unique career journey. Starting with aspirations of becoming a doctor, Laura's path changed drastically after taking a temporary job in construction. Discover how her background in health sciences unexpectedly led to a passion for construction and project management. Laura discusses her early career challenges, the importance of asking questions, the role of mentorship, and the dynamics of being a woman in a male-dominated industry. She also touches on the significance of work-life balance, leadership principles, and the value of meaningful projects. As Laura reflects on her achievements and future goals, she provides invaluable advice for young professionals considering a career in construction.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
04:23 First Experience in Construction
10:20 Career Growth and Opportunities
23:49 Supporting the Site Team
26:33 Creating a Supportive Work Culture
28:13 Navigating Career and Motherhood
33:12 Current Role and Responsibilities
45:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in Male-Dominated Fields with Nour Hachem
In this episode, Diane interviews Nour Hachem, President and Founder of the national not-for-profit 'Build A Dream'. Nour talks about her background and childhood and moving from Lebanon to Canada. She shares her journey from aspiring to be a human rights lawyer to discovering her passion for the not-for-profit sector, leading her to establish Build A Dream. Nour discusses the challenges and successes in promoting women's engagement in male-dominated sectors such as skilled trades, STEM, and leadership roles. She also emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments for women and the collective effort required to foster a more equitable society. Highlighting powerful personal and professional anecdotes, Nour illustrates the transformative impact of economic independence and the importance of empowering both women and men to break traditional molds and embrace their full potential.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
03:52 University Challenges and Career Shift
05:43 Founding Build A Dream
10:32 Mission and Impact of Build A Dream
25:08 Challenges and Solutions in Male-Dominated Fields
36:20 Success Stories and Future Goals
47:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Empowering Women in Skilled Trades: Diane Finnegan's Journey
In this episode, Diane Finnegan, CEO of The Dirty Seahorse, shares her inspiring journey from being a retail sales manager to founding a company that makes women's workwear for skilled trades. Diane describes how her daughter's challenges in finding suitable workwear sparked the idea, leading her to create a business focused on durable, functional, and comfortable workwear for women. Diane discusses overcoming obstacles like imposter syndrome, learning essential skills from sewing to fabric sourcing, and the importance of community and feedback from women in trades. The company aims not only to produce quality workwear but also to support and advocate for women in trades, highlighting issues like suitable daycare and employer hiring practices. Diane expresses her commitment to changing the industry for the better and her plans for future growth, including a potential storefront.
00:00 Meet Diane Finnegan: CEO of The Dirty Seahorse
03:22 The Birth of The Dirty Seahorse
07:33 Building the Business and Overcoming Doubts
10:26 Community Feedback and Product Development
19:32 Supporting Women in Trades
22:06 Challenges in the Trades
26:11 Social Media and Outreach
27:12 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated
31:13 Final Thoughts and Future Goals -
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Breaking Barriers: Pat's Journey in Construction and Leadership
In this episode, Pat, shares her inspiring journey from Southeast London to becoming the VP of Major Projects for Bird in Vancouver. Starting with a childhood dream of becoming a policewoman, she pivoted to the construction industry, building a successful 35-year career spanning multiple countries. Pat discusses her early challenges, including her entry into the workforce, and navigating a male-dominated industry. She highlights her career's milestones and later her move to Canada to lead major P3 healthcare projects. Pat also emphasizes the importance of being genuine, working hard, and the value of teamwork. She reflects on her role as executive sponsor of the Women@Bird ERG and shares her aspirations to reach the C-suite level to continue making a positive impact in the industry.
00:00 Meet Patricia: Childhood Dreams and Early Career
05:33 First Steps in Construction
07:03 Career Milestones and Growth
18:14 International Career Moves
26:14 Role at Bird Construction
30:56 Advice for Women in Leadership
32:24 Importance of ERGs
36:16 Reflecting on a 35-Year Career
37:31 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts
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Renae Sams: Building a Path for Women in Construction
In this episode, Diane interviews Renae Sams, founder and executive director of Build-Her.org, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women in construction. Renee shares her journey from dreaming of working for NASA to becoming a leader in the construction industry. She details the challenges she faced, including overcoming imposter syndrome and navigating a career without an initial exposure to construction from site administrator to senior project manager on missions critical projects. Renee discusses the importance of visible female role models and her motivation to help other women feel they belong in the industry. She also talks about her book, which includes writing prompts to encourage reflection and growth, and her efforts to create a supportive community through her nonprofit.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
02:11 Childhood Dreams and Early Influences
03:38 Journey into the Construction Industry
06:02 First Steps in Construction
08:20 Challenges and Growth in the Industry
13:29 Founding Build-Her.org
18:20 The Importance of Representation
38:28 Advice and Future Aspirations
43:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Notes:
Norman, Don. The Design of Everyday Things. Revised and expanded ed., Basic Books, 2013.
The Arbinger Institute. Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box. 3rd ed., Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2018.
build-her.org
Build-Her. (2024, April 10). Build-Her Be Heard: Creating space for women in construction with Renae Sams.
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Jessica Luczycki: Redefining Construction Administration Through Part3
In this episode, we meet Luczycki, Co-Founder and Chief Customer Officer at Part3. Jessica shares her journey from aspiring teacher to tech entrepreneur in the architectural and construction industry. She discusses her educational background, initial career at EllisDon, and transition into architectural contract administration. Jessica reveals how frustrations in her job led to founding Part3, a software solution designed to streamline construction administration. Alongside her husband and co-founder, she navigated startup challenges, balancing parenthood and raising funds to build a solution now widely embraced by the industry. She emphasizes the importance of diversity, transparency, and customer-centric innovation in driving Part3's success. Additionally, Jessica touches on the future of AI in construction, and how it can become a tool for time consuming tasks. Tune in to hear her insights and inspiring story of perseverance and innovation.
00:00 Early Aspirations and Career Beginnings
06:31 Switch to Contract Administration
11:17 Founding Part3
21:04 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Parenthood
23:15 Team Growth and Belief in the Mission
25:15 Challenges in Construction Administration
27:17 Recognition and Networking
38:37 AI in Construction and Future Plans
43:19 Advice for Women in Construction
45:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Chelsea Fenton: Pioneering Women in Construction
In this episode, Chelsea Fenton (@thatunionlaborer), a 32-year-old union laborer from Western Massachusetts, shares her inspiring journey from aspiring to be a firefighter to excelling in the construction industry. Chelsea discusses the challenges she overcame, including being denied entry into the apprenticeship program twice before finally being accepted. She explains how her father’s support and the invaluable mentorship from seasoned colleagues helped her succeed. Chelsea also talks about her significant role in cofounding Western Mass Tradeswomen to support and connect women in the construction trades. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of persistence, finding mentors, and maintaining work-life balance. Chelsea is actively involved in outreach and education to attract more women to the trades, underscoring her dedication to the future of the industry.
00:00 Introduction and Early Life
02:04 Career Aspirations and Challenges
11:41 Union Involvement and Growth
18:54 Forming Western Mass Tradeswomen
27:00 Challenges Women Face in Construction
29:02 Retention Challenges and Mentorship
30:39 Becoming a Foreman
35:56 Social Media Influence
42:12 Family and Personal Life
44:09 Future Aspirations and Advice
https://www.wmtradeswomen.org/
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The Journey of Mercedes Byers: From environmental science to co-founding a thriving sustainability consulting business.
In this episode, Mercedes Byers shares her inspiring journey from her early dreams of becoming an actor to establishing herself in the sustainability consulting field. She talks about her childhood, academic pursuits, and how a serendipitous environmental science class at the University of Toronto pivoted her career from medicine to environmental science. Mercedes recounts the early challenges and milestones during the founding of Pratus Group, her partnership, and their eventual merger with Quasar Consulting Group. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive and respectful work culture, providing opportunities for younger employees, and balancing professional responsibilities with personal life as a mother of three. Tune in to hear her insights on leadership, overcoming industry challenges, and what drives her continued passion for sustainability in construction.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
02:17 Early Life and Childhood Dreams
03:50 Academic Journey and Career Beginnings
05:03 Transition to Environmental Science
07:21 First Steps in the Construction Industry
11:03 Founding Pratus Group
31:06 Fostering a Positive Work Culture
35:16 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Family
39:19 The Quasar Partnership
44:03 Reflecting on Achievements and Future Goals
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Dee Durant: From Electrical Apprentice to Trade Advocate - A Journey Through Challenges and Triumphs
In this episode, Dee Durant, a 24-year-old electrical apprentice from southern Ontario, shares her inspiring journey from childhood aspirations of becoming a meteorologist to finding her calling in the electrical trade. Despite facing challenges like severe anxiety and ADHD, Dee sheds light on how she navigated her academic struggles, supported by her loving family and mentors. She discusses her experiences on the job, the realities of being a woman in the trades, and the importance of mental health. Dee also highlights her active role in promoting skilled trades through social media and public speaking, aiming to break stereotypes and encourage diversity. Her story is a testament to resilience, the power of supportive mentors, and the importance of pursuing one's passion.
00:00 Meet De Durant: Background and Early Life
03:10 Discovering a Passion for Trades
08:41 Overcoming Educational Barriers
15:23 First Steps in the Electrical Trade
19:09 Current Role and Responsibilities
22:00 Social Media and Promoting Trades
26:15 Building Confidence Through Construction
30:52 Mental Health in the Construction Industry
42:21 The Importance of Mentorship
46:17 Future Goals and Advice for Women in Construction
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about mental health challenges, including suicide. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please consider reaching out to a mental health professional or contacting a support line (988). You are not alone.
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Beyond the Nickname: Amy Marks' Journey of hard work, perseverance and kindness.
In this episode, Diane welcomes Amy Marks, Senior Vice President of Innovation at Compass Data Centers, often known as the 'Queen of Prefab.' Amy shares her journey from a turbulent upbringing in a construction family business to becoming a leading figure in the construction and prefabrication industries. She details her academic background, early career challenges, and eventual rise to prominence after taking bold steps in prefabrication. Amy also touches on her passion for women's rugby and its impact on her career, her work at Compass Data Centers, and the importance of kindness, hard work, and saying 'yes' to opportunities. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
02:18 Early Dreams and Upbringing
03:04 Path to the Construction Industry
09:06 Becoming the Queen of Prefab
15:55 Influence and Recognition
23:12 The Importance of Thought Leadership
24:15 Broadening Horizons Beyond Prefabrication
26:28 Current Role and Career Reflections
29:56 The Power of Saying Yes and Hard Work
32:34 Rugby and Its Impact on Career
39:16 Future Aspirations and Advice for Women in Construction
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Ashley Kalizuk: From Crane Operator to Advocate for Women in Construction
In this episode, Ashley Kalizuk shares her journey from a crane operator to a photographer and an instructor in the construction industry. Reflecting on her career's challenges and triumphs, Ashley discusses her early days working in construction, the unexpected path to her Red Seal endorsement, and her transition into full-time photography and instructing at NAIT. She underscores the importance of representation and advocacy for women in the industry, offering advice for young women entering the field. Ashley's story is a testament to resilience, versatility, and the pursuit of passion, culminating in her recognition as a top professional under 40 in her field.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
02:08 Early Career Aspirations and First Job
04:35 Navigating the Construction Industry
06:13 Challenges and Lessons Learned
06:49 Writing and Advocacy for Women in Construction
13:17 Transition to Photography and Business
19:09 Becoming an Instructor and Teaching Experience
33:49 Future Goals and Advice for Women in Construction
37:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Annik Forristal's Journey from Engineering to Legal Expertise in Construction
In this episode, Diane welcomes Annik Forristal, a Toronto-based lawyer specializing in municipal and construction law. Annik shares her inspiring journey, from her early fascination with engineering during a 'Take Your Kid to Work Day' experience, to her career in the law industry. She discusses her experiences working with various industries during her co-op and her eventual gravitation towards the legal aspects of engineering projects. Annik provides insightful perspectives on the importance of mentorship, the role of legal professionals in construction projects, the challenges and rewards of bridging engineering and law, and the need for effective communication and problem-solving in the industry. Her passion for the industry and commitment to fostering supportive networks for women in construction and law shines through in this engaging conversation.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:30 Early Life and Career Aspirations
02:52 Transition from Engineering to Law
04:59 Navigating Law School and Early Career
08:29 Specializing in Construction Law
13:18 Day-to-Day as a Construction Lawyer
14:39 Challenges and Belonging in the Industry
25:49 Recognitions and Future Aspirations
29:53 Networking and Mentorship
40:10 Final Thoughts and Advice
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Empowering the Next Generation: Lindsay Chester's Advocacy for Young Women in Skilled Trades
In this episode, Lindsay Chester, the Young Women's Initiatives Program Manager at Skills Ontario, shares her journey and mission to promote skilled trades as viable career options for young women. Starting as a dream to become a teacher, Lindsay shifted her career path and found her way to Skills Ontario.. Lindsay discusses various programs and events like the Young Women's Conference, International Day of the Girl, and industry-specific days that aim to provide hands-on experiences and exposure to the construction industry and skilled trades. She emphasizes the importance of reaching out to girls as early as grades seven and eight and the role of social media in enhancing awareness. Despite the challenges of working with industries and schools, Lindsay remains passionate about creating inclusive opportunities for girls and women in trades. The episode highlights the significant impact of these initiatives in changing perceptions and encouraging young women to consider careers in skilled trades.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:15 Lindsay's Background and Early Career
04:01 Journey to Skills Ontario
06:13 Introduction to Skills Ontario and Its Programs
08:03 Young Women's Initiatives and Events
19:26 Challenges and Industry Collaboration
22:50 Reaching Young Girls Early
37:07 Resources and Support Networks
41:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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In this special episode for Women in Construction Week (March 2-8 2025), we highlight some of the inspiring stories shared by women on this podcast. Hosted by Diane, this episode brings together past guests including Leslie, Gelare, Mi, Morgan, Sabrina, and Lisa to share their unique journeys, experiences, and challenges in the construction field.
They share their journeys into the construction industry, from childhood dreams that didn’t involve construction to overcoming challenges in a male-dominated field. Each guest reflects on the struggles they faced early on, from learning on the job to breaking stereotypes. They highlight the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and community in their growth.
This empowering episode is a celebration of women’s achievements in construction and a reminder that the industry holds endless opportunities for those willing to work hard.
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Trailblazing Women in Construction: A Candid Conversation with Lisa Laronde
In this insightful discussion, Diane interviews Lisa Laronde, Chief Transformation Officer for Ramudden Global, who shares her journey from finance to leading a major construction company. Lisa recounts her transition into the construction industry, the obstacles she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field, and how she overcame workplace challenges. She opens up about building a supportive community, and the importance of networking and representation. Lisa also emphasizes the value of involving Gen Z in the workforce and advocates for diverse leadership and equity in the construction industry.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
01:45 Lisa's Background and Career Journey
05:42 Transition to Construction Industry
08:10 Facing Gender Bias in Leadership
28:52 Challenges Faced by Women in Construction
30:28 The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion
39:41 Balancing Leadership and Advocacy
41:11 Future Aspirations and Advice
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Pioneering in Construction: From Rugby Fields to Infrastructure Projects with Sabrina
In this episode, Diane interviews Sabrina, a civil engineer from Zurich, Switzerland. Sabrina, who works in consulting and project management for infrastructure projects, shares her journey from growing up in an architect family to becoming a significant figure in the construction industry. She discusses her educational path, influenced by her love for sports, and the challenges and opportunities she faced in a male-dominated field. Sabrina highlights the importance of inclusivity in public spaces and her goal to create better environments for communities. She also reflects on how motherhood and her passion for rugby have shaped her leadership style and career. Sabrina advocates for using one's voice, creating long-term trust in teams, and fostering a supportive work environment.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
02:06 Background and Career Beginnings
03:55 Education
07:51 First Years in the Construction Industry
11:52 Balancing Career and Motherhood
17:09 The Role of Sports in Life and Career
22:34 Leadership and Team Dynamics
34:41 Empowerment and Advice for Women
37:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Breaking Barriers: Morgan Bosch's Journey as a Crane Operator
In this episode, Morgan Bosch, a 28-year-old mobile crane operator from Edmonton, Canada, joins the podcast to share her inspiring journey. Starting in the industry at 18, Morgan transitioned from aspiring to be a teacher to thriving in a blue-collar role. She recalls the pivotal role her father played in introducing her to the field and discusses the initial challenges she faced, including overcoming stereotypes and building physical strength. Morgan also opens up about her advocacy for mental health, the importance of mentorship, and her active role in encouraging more women to join the construction industry. She touches upon her significant social media presence and her efforts in creating the YEG Blue Collar Women group, providing a support network for women in the trades. The episode is filled with heartfelt stories, impactful advice, and Morgan's unwavering enthusiasm for her career and advocacy work.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
01:51 Morgan's Background and Career Beginnings
04:14 First Steps into the Construction Industry
06:04 Early Experiences on the Job
09:50 Challenges and Overcoming Stereotypes
15:19 Inspiring the Next Generation
18:31 The Power of Social Media
23:01 Founding YEG Blue Collar Women
29:18 Career Reflections and Future Aspirations
36:30 Mental Health Advocacy in Construction
39:15 Mentorship and Support Systems
42:02 Final Thoughts
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From Childhood Dreams to Architectural Mastery: An Interview with Gelare Danaie
In this episode, Diane interviews Gelare Danaie, a Toronto-based architect originally from Iran. Gelare shares her fascinating journey from childhood dreams of changing environments to becoming a successful architect. She discusses her early inspiration, her diverse professional experiences across multiple countries, and her passion for designing human-centered spaces. Gelare also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of starting her own company, DEXD, along with the importance of authenticity, dreaming big, and maintaining a balanced perspective in her career. She offers valuable advice for aspiring architects, emphasizing the significance of enjoying one's work and pursuing it with passion.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
02:33 Childhood Dreams and Early Inspirations
05:03 Pursuing Architecture and Early Career
07:17 Balancing Dreams and Reality in Architecture
09:29 Starting a Business and Overcoming Challenges
14:24 Networking and Industry Insights
20:31 Future Aspirations
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Empowering Diversity: Mi Kim's Journey in the Construction Industry
In this episode, Mi Kim shares her unique journey from being a third culture kid to a successful consultant in the construction industry. Born in Korea, raised in Honduras, and educated in Canada, Kim talks about the challenges and triumphs of navigating these diverse backgrounds. She discusses her career path from dreaming of becoming an astronaut to becoming an independent contractor, the mentors who influenced her, and her passion for diversity and inclusion. Kim also highlights the significance of her nomination in the 'Top 40 Under 40' by the Construction News Site and offers valuable advice for young women considering a career in construction.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:59 Childhood Dreams and Career Path
04:44 Entering the Construction Industry
09:29 Experiences Working Up North
15:44 Embracing Identity and Mentorship
22:59 Personal Growth and Mentorship
27:10 Career Journey at Kiewit
30:03 Pursuing an MBA
34:06 Top 40 Under 40 Recognition
38:35 Advocacy for Diversity and Inclusion
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From Arctic Beginnings to Global Projects: Leslie's Story
In this podcast episode, Diane interviews her long-time friend and mentor, Leslie Merrithew, a successful civil engineer in the transportation construction industry. Leslie recounts her journey from dreaming of being a math teacher to navigating a unique career path. She discusses the importance of having champions in her career, and how she used opportunities to build valuable skills and networks. Leslie highlights significant projects, such as the Iqaluit Airport and Bermuda Airport, her imposter syndrome struggles, and the power of embracing diversity. She also shares her passion for moving to new places and building communities while offering advice on networking and career growth for young women in construction.00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
03:01 Early Aspirations and Career Beginnings
06:12 University Journey and First Job
08:49 Landing the Iqaluit Airport Project
11:40 Opportunities and Challenges in the North
20:29 Leading a Diverse Team
32:47 Embracing New Places and Building Communities
35:37 Effective Networking
39:57 Advice for Young Professionals in Construction
- Visa fler
