Women in Construction
In April 2022,
Windemuller and other Michigan-based construction leaders hosted
Women in Construction: Mentorship Matters
This hybrid event highlighted successes and acknowledged the barriers often faced by hardworking women in a historically male-dominated industry. Our expert panelists, based throughout Michigan, shared personal stories from the field, why mentorships are important and the role they play in the success of women in the construction industry, how to get a mentor, how to serve as a mentor, and strategies to develop a mentorship program for your organization.
Mentorship Matters
Click below to watch a recording of the 2022 Building Up Women event
OUR PANELISTS
- Rhea Estrada , EV Construction
- Amy Russell, Comstock Construction
- Aileen Leipprandt, Hilger Hammond
- Moderator: Jenny Waugh, Fishbeck
Our Sponsors
Featured Mentors & Mentees
The challenges faced by women entering the traditionally male-dominated field of construction are indisputable. Females make up than less than 9% of those working in the industry, and only 3% in the actual trades.
At Windemuller, we celebrate equality, are inspired by our female leaders and — all year long — celebrate those who encourage women to push the limits. As part of that commitment, we are sharing the experiences directly from women who are finding their way in the construction industry today.
Stephanie Davis
President, Greater Michigan Construction Academy
Mentor
“Not setting out for the role of a mentor, I have to tell you that it feels amazing to know you are impacting the lives of others. Especially women in the construction industry. I have learned that I am growing right along with them. It has been life changing for me.
With the women I mentor, I tell them that the construction industry is a tough one, but bringing confidence as well as the openness to learn will help you be recognized as much as any other individual, man or woman.”
Jessica Novack
Project Manager, Windemuller
Mentee
“I didn’t know that I had or needed a mentor because I wasn’t sure this was going to be my career. Once I had a mentor, I could see more of a future and a path for me to reach the goals that I set for myself. I learned so much about how to approach certain situations, how to treat others and be respectful of peoples jobs and opinions.
The best advice I received from my mentor was listen more than you speak. Let others around you talk, take in the information and know your answers. If you don’t know the answer, admit that you don’t know and take this as a learning experience.”
Shannon Tate
Director of Commercial Services, Three Rivers Construction
Mentor
“Being a mentor is a very grounding experience. You see issues and ideas through a different lens. Sometimes that different lens is simply the wonder of youth and knowing all that is ahead of you and that there are no limits to what you can do.
The best advice I can share with women in the construction industry is ask questions! Even now, I have been in my career for a long time, but there is still so much to learn. Yes, it can be scary, but do it anyways. We, as women, bring a different perspective to this hard old industry of construction. Our voices and our presence are needed.”
Amy Russell
Project Manager, Comstock Construction
Mentor
“My favorite part of being a mentor would be helping other woman succeed and accomplish their goals. You learn new things and perspectives from others as they learn from you. Everyone brings something to a relationship that you can use to grow and learn from.
I always tell my mentees, keep your confidence up and believe in yourself. You have to be tough and willing to learn new things to be successful in this industry. Try to be the best role model you can be. Take pride in your work and work hard.”