Women Talk Construction Podcast

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell welcome Ala, the founder of 'Behind the Hardhat' and a 2024 40 Under 40 award winner. Ala shares his journey from the construction field to becoming a senior implementation consultant and an influential construction storyteller. The discussion focuses on the importance of highlighting the human side of the construction industry, the challenges of integrating technology, and the critical need for mentorship. Ala also provides valuable advice for young people and women aspiring to join the construction industry and elaborates on the impact of storytelling in changing perceptions both inside and outside the industry. Thanks for listening!Supported by: Tealhaus and Women Confidence BuildersSupport the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner introduce their exciting new guest, Sumer Furlong, a young and dynamic land development manager at ReproLand. As a recent graduate of Greenville Technical Institute's Construction Engineering Technology program and a youth mentor at her local church, Sumer shares her journey into the construction industry, the challenges she faces as one of the youngest in her field, and her passion for mentoring the next generation. She also discusses her decision to forego further formal education for hands-on experience based on valuable external advice. Sumer shares personal anecdotes from mission trips and highlights the importance of building relationships and giving back. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry with passion, resilience, and a commitment to mentorship. Thanks for Listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn the debut episode of 'In the News' on Women Talk Construction, hosts Angela and Christi delve into the latest trends and innovations in the construction industry. They focus on sustainable housing solutions, discussing the growing popularity of modular homes, the integration of eco-friendly materials like recycled denim insulation, and the potential future impact of these trends. Expert guests Audree Grubesic and Rory Rubin contribute insights on modular construction's efficiency and environmental benefits. The episode emphasizes the significance of sustainability, affordability, and collaboration in modern construction, promising more in-depth discussions in future episodes. Thanks for Listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell sit down with Indra Gutierrez, a trailblazing woman and owner in the construction industry. Indra shares her journey, from realizing her potential to lead and impact the sector to how she fosters diversity and opens opportunities for others. She talks about her 10-year experience running her general contracting company, Gutier, which specializes in commercial construction and self-performs civil work. Indra also reflects on the challenges and triumphs she's faced, her supportive husband, and the role of technology in creating better working conditions. The conversation highlights the importance of communication, the evolving industry dynamics, and the vital role of inclusivity in the construction workforce. Thanks for Listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela and Christie welcome Kate Strauss from Galvanized Law Group. Based in Denver, Colorado, Kate specializes in construction law, assisting clients like subcontractors, general contractors, architects, engineers, and building material suppliers. She also supports a nonprofit called Transportation Construction Girl, which aims to introduce young women to the construction and trades industries. Kate talks about her law firm's focus, her journey into construction law, the importance of being proactive with legal strategies in construction, and shares insights on the latest trends in legal technology, particularly in the realm of AI. Additionally, she emphasizes the significance of industry education and trade associations for growing businesses. Kate's dedication to both her legal work and empowering women in the industry shines throughout the conversation. Thanks for Listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner dive into the inspiring journey of Pat Miller, owner of Blue Diamond Construction in Jackson, New Jersey. Pat shares her extensive experience in the construction industry, from humble beginnings to leading significant projects. She provides insights into the current state of the construction industry, the importance of valuing quality and safety over low-cost bids, and the rise of women in construction. Pat emphasizes the value of passion, perseverance, and adaptability in achieving success in a traditionally male-dominated field. Additionally, she discusses her involvement in vocational education and her efforts to attract and develop more women in construction. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with practical advice, personal stories, and a testament to the power of hard work and dedication. Thanks for Listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell sit down with Giovanna Carchidi, National Sales Manager - Projects Multifamily for Kohler, to discuss her inspiring journey in the construction industry. Sponsored by Trimble, the episode covers various topics aimed at empowering women, including mentorship, career paths, and networking. Giovanna shares a compelling story about overcoming challenges and highlights the importance of women in the construction field. The conversation also explores the diverse opportunities in the industry and emphasizes the critical role of technology and innovation in shaping its future. Thanks for Listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner sit down with Chandler (Channy) McLaurin, an ACE mentor alumnus and a landscape architecture student making strides in the construction industry. Chandler shares her journey from high school to her current role at Gale Nurseries, emphasizing the role of mentorship and allyship in her career development. Topics covered include the influence of the ACE program on her career path, the impact of mentorship on her professional growth, and her passion for landscape architecture, particularly her senior project 'Temple Harmony.' Chandler also discusses the importance of diversity and allyship in the industry and offers advice for those considering a career in landscape architecture. The episode wraps up with Chandler sharing how to connect with her on LinkedIn. Thanks for Listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner are joined by special guest Allison Giddens from Win-Tech Inc, a leader in the manufacturing industry. Allison shares her remarkable story of how she transitioned from an assistant to an owner at Win-Tech. The discussion covers a range of topics, including the impact of women in manufacturing, the importance of allyship, and how innovative projects at Win-Tech can inspire others to enter the field. Allison also provides valuable advice for the next generation looking to build a career in manufacturing. The episode highlights the significance of saying 'yes' to opportunities and trusting one's gut instinct. Additionally, it touches on the various benefits of being a part of Women in Manufacturing, an organization dedicated to supporting women in the industry. Thanks for Listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell welcome back Ece Erdogmus, the founding Dean of the College of Architecture, Art, and Construction at Clemson University. Ece shares her exceptional journey from her early interests in architecture and engineering to her recent role at Clemson University. Highlighting her notable achievements, including her induction into the Masonry Society, Ece discusses the importance of mentoring, allyship, dismantling limiting beliefs, and self-care. The conversation underscores the significance of industry connections and the unique challenges women face in balancing professional success with personal life. The episode concludes with insightful reflections on fostering growth and opportunities in the architecture, engineering, and construction fields. Thanks for Listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner introduce Amber Little, Chief Human Resources Officer at Nations Best. Amber shares her insights on the challenges women face in leadership roles within the LBM industry and how the Women Leadership Retreat aims to address these challenges. She discusses her background in male-dominated industries and how it has equipped her for her current role. Key strategies and innovative approaches to attract and retain top talent are also highlighted, with an emphasis on creating an inclusive work environment and providing meaningful benefits. Amber offers valuable advice on people management and career development, showcasing Nations Best's commitment to growth and support for women in the construction industry.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell speak with Lauren Kraemer, Vice President at Arco Murray, about her journey in the construction industry. Lauren shares her experiences as a new mom, the importance of mentorship, and navigating a predominantly male industry. She highlights the organic growth and inclusive culture at Arco Murray, the challenges and lessons learned, and the significance of continuous improvement and work-life balance. Tune in to be inspired by Lauren's story and gain insights into fostering an inclusive environment in construction. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell welcome Lindsay Niedringhaus, the founder of TealHaus Strategies. Lindsay shares her inspiring story of accidentally starting her company and discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a team of strong women. They explore the importance of branding, analytics, and storytelling, and Lindsay offers valuable advice for women entrepreneurs looking to start their own businesses. The conversation highlights the significance of emotional connection in marketing and the evolving nature of brands and websites. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this special episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell collaborate with Trimble to highlight inspiring stories of women and men thriving in non-traditional construction roles. The conversation begins with a brief story about our hosts, who met through LinkedIn during the pandemic, formed a friendship, and started a podcast to share stories and create opportunities in the construction industry. They introduce special guest Ece Erdogmus, the founding dean at Clemson University's College of Architecture, Art, and Construction, who shares her experiences from her extensive career and her commitment to mentorship, sustainability, and innovation in construction. Ece elaborates on her background, the importance of study abroad programs, engaging youth in construction careers, and the role of women in advancing sustainable building technologies. The episode concludes with valuable insights on mentorship and empowering women in the construction industry. Thanks for Listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner welcome Tammy Murray, an Area Sales Manager at Andersen Windows, to discuss the need for more women and diverse talent in the construction industry. Tammy shares her journey from decorative plumbing sales to her current leadership role focusing on the Philadelphia area, emphasizing the importance of education, awareness, and workforce development. The conversation highlights the industry's opportunities, the supportive role of male allies, and the significant impact of storytelling in inspiring young people to consider careers in construction. Tammy offers practical advice for women and newcomers entering the field and underscores the rewarding career paths available within the industry. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell engage in a lively conversation with LinkedIn expert Lindsey McMillion Stemann. Lindsey shares her journey, beginning in 2016, of becoming a LinkedIn authority, and offers invaluable insights into leveraging the platform for networking, sales, and building a personal brand. Key topics include the importance of an up-to-date profile picture, the benefits of personalized engagement over automation, and how to use LinkedIn as a CRM tool. Lindsey also discusses her philosophy of 'connecting with purpose' and offers a free guide for standing out on LinkedIn. This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone looking to enhance their LinkedIn presence and effectiveness.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell speak with a special returning guest, Julie Laughton. Julie shares updates on her thriving business, the importance of positive energy, and the power of effective delegation. She emphasizes the need for like-minded collaboration and offers advice for getting more women and students into the construction industry. The conversation covers vital topics like mental health, workplace safety, and the integration of AI in construction, offering valuable insights for women considering a career shift. Julie also discusses her approach to project management and the significance of training and education for women on the job. Closing the episode, the hosts express their support for creating more platforms for women in construction, showcasing stories, and providing further resources. Listeners learn how to follow Julie and gain valuable advice for succeeding in the construction industry.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner welcome Sneha Kumari, a modular and prefab construction pioneer. Sneha shares her journey from manufacturing and supply chain to becoming a leading figure in the construction industry. She discusses the importance of incorporating technology, like AI, in construction and highlights the unique challenges and opportunities for women in the field. Sneha offers valuable insights into the need for leadership development, mentorship, and inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of self-assurance and leveraging existing skills. Listen to how Sneha's company, Merlin AI, aims to revolutionize the industry by combining tech and domain expertise. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell welcome back Elizabeth Barnhart, a project engineer at Kiewit - one of North America's largest and most respected engineering and construction organizations.. Elizabeth shares her inspiring journey from a mining engineering graduate at WVU to a project engineer living in multiple states and working on large-scale tunnel projects. She discusses the importance of staying positive, even in challenging times, and how she motivates her team. Elizabeth also emphasizes the power of asking questions and stepping back to reflect on accomplishments. The conversation includes practical advice on leadership, personal growth, and maintaining life balance, making Elizabeth a true role model in the industry. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christy Powell are joined by Hannah, a scholarship recipient studying welding at Great Bay Community College. Hannah shares her journey from high school through her various trades experiences, including automotive and welding. She talks about the support and challenges she faced, the impactful role of female mentors, and her plans in welding and beyond. Listeners are encouraged by Hannah's resilience and dedication, as well as her creative projects in welding art. The discussion also highlights the importance of representation and mentorship for women in trades. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell welcome back Deb Sofield, an executive speech coach, author, podcaster, and keynote speaker. They discuss Deb's experience in public speaking coaching, crisis communication, and the significance of our chosen words. Deb shares valuable tips for women leaders, highlighting phrases to avoid and words to incorporate into speech to maintain authority and clarity. The conversation also covers Deb's role as emcee at the Women Confidence Builders event, demonstrating the impact of effective communication. Listeners are encouraged to visit Deb's website, debsofield.com, for more resources and to connect with her for professional coaching. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner welcome Jonna Turner, the South Carolina Membership Director for ABC Carolinas. Jonna shares her extensive background in higher education, marketing, and as a membership director in various organizations. The discussion highlights ABC Carolinas' initiatives, such as workforce development, strategic engagement, and the impactful 'Build a Shed' program for high school students. Jonna also talks about the importance of inclusion, diversity, and merit (IDM), and how ABC provides valuable networking and growth opportunities for young professionals in the construction industry. The episode wraps up with Jonna's personal advice on career advancement and her favorite resources for continuous personal and professional improvement.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner interview Juliana Choy Sommer, founder of Priority Architectural Graphics. Juliana shares her incredible journey from taking over a small side business to scaling it into a successful signage company. The discussion covers topics such as navigating recessions, maintaining a growth mindset, and the unique advantages women bring to business leadership. Juliana also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, goal setting, and being resilient through life's challenges. The episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for women in the construction industry and beyond. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner introduce Kabri Lerman-Schmid, a project superintendent with 17 years of experience at Hensel Phelps. Specializing in aviation and university campus programs, Kabri discusses her true passion: workforce well-being. The conversation centers around the critical concept of psychological safety in the construction industry. Kabri defines psychological safety, shares practical strategies for field leaders to implement it, and highlights real-life success stories demonstrating its positive impacts on team performance and project outcomes. The episode closes with Kabri sharing her favorite podcasts for personal and professional growth and advice for young women entering the industry. Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell are joined by Kristen Pressimone, a project manager at Chesapeake Contracting Group. Kristen shares her journey in the construction industry, discussing the projects she's been working on and the importance of women in the field. They talk about overcoming challenges, advocating for oneself, and the opportunities available for women in construction. Kristen also offers advice for women feeling outnumbered in meetings and encourages them to speak up and pursue their passions. The discussion highlights the diverse roles women can pursue in construction and the value of mentorship and networking. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela and Christi welcome back Ethan James, also known as The Honest Carpenter. Ethan, a professional carpenter and popular YouTuber with over 895,000 subscribers, shares updates since his last appearance. He discusses the challenges of transitioning to a new workshop, the benefits and differences of creating online courses compared to YouTube content, and his plans for writing educational carpentry books for children. The conversation also delves into the need for more tradespeople in the industry and initiatives to attract the next generation. The episode concludes with Ethan offering valuable advice to the cohosts on improving their YouTube channel and informing the audience on how to find his content online.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner are joined by Mónika Serrano from Turner Construction and Jessica Mederson from Stafford Rosenbaum to discuss the importance of climate resilience in the built environment. The conversation touches on their personal gratitude for the supportive network in the construction industry, the significant impact of climate change on construction projects, and the necessity of implementing resilient building practices. Mónika and Jessica share valuable insights on legal risks, practical measures for construction sites, and resources available to help professionals prepare for climate impacts. Key highlights include the essential inclusion of climate adaptation strategies and the critical role of robust contract management to mitigate potential legal disputes in construction.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell welcome executive speech coach, author, and keynote speaker Deb Sofield. Deb shares her journey, expertise, and practical advice on public speaking, media training, crisis communication, and one-on-one coaching. She highlights the importance of preparation, the value of words, and overcoming personal barriers to becoming an effective communicator. The conversation covers tips for handling impromptu media interactions, crisis scenarios, and building goodwill through social media. Deb also talks about her books and how they can help improve public speaking skills. Listeners are encouraged to reach out to Deb for speaking engagements, coaching, and more resources. Thank you for listening!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner are joined by Alicia Woods, CEO of Covergalls Workwear and principal consultant for CG Aligned Consulting. The conversation focuses on the significance of properly fitting PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) for women, particularly in the mining and construction industries. Alicia shares insights from her extensive 20-year experience in mining, stories of women's empowerment through well-fitted workwear, and the challenges faced in creating PPE for women. The episode emphasizes the psychological and practical benefits of PPE that fits well, including enhanced safety, confidence, and inclusion. Alicia also discusses the journey of bringing her products to market, the importance of quality standards, and the need for continued advocacy and education in providing female-focused safety gear in traditionally male-dominated fields.Support the show

Send us a textIn this Episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell interview Kerri Smith from Baker Construction, the nation's leading concrete contractor. Kerri shares her 20-year journey within the company and discusses her current role as Chief People and Strategy Officer. The conversation covers innovative leadership strategies, the importance of mentorship, and the unique challenges and rewards of being a mother in the construction industry. They also explore the critical role of early education and sports in developing careers in construction. The episode emphasizes fostering a supportive culture for women in male-dominated fields and encourages listeners to connect with Kerri and explore opportunities at Baker Construction.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christ and Angela review the second part of NCCER's report, 'In Her Own Words', which highlights strategies for advancing women in the construction industry. The discussion covers three main topics: offering training opportunities, increasing the number of women in field leadership positions, and improving job site experiences. Key points include mentoring and sponsorship programs, the need for tailored safety equipment, fostering communication between team members, and the importance of diversity in leadership roles. The hosts emphasize the importance of creating a supportive environment for learning and growth that is applicable to both men and women in the industry.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell engage with David Wolke, Vice President of Hill Electric, to discuss the company's effective strategies in operations management, safety, and workforce development. The conversation covers Hill Electric's career outreach programs, their strong partnerships with local technical colleges, and the unique challenges of operating in industrial and hospital settings. Emphasizing community involvement, inclusive hiring practices, and an employee-centric work environment, Hill Electric's commitment to training future electricians through programs like Coop University and focus on soft skills and safety standards are highlighted. Insights from both Hill Electric's leadership and personal anecdotes from teaching at Clemson underscore the powerful impact of supportive workplace relationships and community contributions. For more information, listeners are encouraged to visit hillelectric.net or connect with them on LinkedIn and other social media platforms.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell dive into the latest NCCER report, which includes insights from 176 tradeswomen and serves as a call to action from the field. They discuss topics such as treating women equally, accommodating mothers, eliminating discrimination and harassment, and ensuring consistent hiring practices. They emphasize the importance of equal treatment and opportunities, flexible work conditions for parents, transparent hiring, and pay equity. They also highlight the necessity of establishing strong anti-discrimination policies. Angela and Christi encourage organizations to support and understand the diverse needs of women in the construction industry for better retention and morale.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner engage in an inspiring conversation with Ines, founder and president of Intec Group. The discussion centers around Ines's journey as a female entrepreneur in the construction industry, highlighting her achievements, challenges, and the importance of mentorship. Ines shares her experiences of moving from Venezuela to the U.S., establishing her business, and her recent accolade of being listed among the top 5,000 fastest-growing private companies in America. The podcast emphasizes the value of organizations like WCOE in supporting women in non-traditional roles, advocating for policy changes, and fostering a supportive community. Ines also discusses the significance of mentorship, networking, and the role of simple business practices in her company's success.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode:  Christi Powell and Angela Gardner engage in an insightful conversation with Nancy Novak, CIO of Compass Data Centers. The discussion highlights the impact of women in critical construction roles, particularly in construction management and frontline supervision. Nancy shares her personal journey, and advice to her younger self, and elaborates on Compass Data Centers' efforts in promoting gender diversity. They discuss the significance of prefabrication techniques in creating family-friendly work environments and the unique culture at Compass. The episode underscores the importance of safety, mental health, and innovation, emphasizing the role of women in driving success and culture change in the construction industry. Additionally, Compass's comprehensive approach to data center development and operation is explored, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and diversity.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of Women Talk Construction, co-hosts Angela Gardner and Christi Powell discuss the critical issues of confidence and self-esteem among women and girls. They share personal stories, surprising statistics, and actionable tips for building self-confidence, including the importance of supportive communities and personal experiences in career development. The discussion also highlights the impact of workplace environments on self-esteem and the significance of addressing mental health in the professional sphere. Resources and further reading are suggested for listeners seeking to enhance their confidence levels.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi discuss with special guest Melody Hackett, a seasoned leader in the building materials industry and breast cancer survivor. Melody shares her inspiring journey from working part-time at 15 to becoming the Director of Sales and Business Development at 84 Lumber Company. She talks about her initiatives, like a builder program connecting industry executives, and her involvement with professional organizations such as the She Built Foundation and Habitat for Humanity. Melody offers insights and advice for women looking to enter the construction industry and emphasizes the importance of persistence, collaboration, and claiming a deserved seat at the table.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this Episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner welcome Abigail Richardson, a civil engineering team leader from Seaman Whiteside. Abigail shares the story of the company's Women's Initiative, which started in 2021 and focuses on inspiring female leaders in a male-dominated industry. She discusses the initiative's successes, including mentorship programs, professional development events, and community engagement activities. Abigail highlights the importance of retaining female talent and ensuring a supportive workplace environment. The conversation also touches on the company's competitive parental leave policy and efforts to integrate employees back into the workforce. Overall, the initiative fosters a culture of allyship, professional growth, and teamwork within Seaman Whiteside.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner are joined by Alicia Brentzel to discuss the importance of work-life balance. Alicia shares her experience in managing Brex Enterprises with her husband, the value of taking personal time, and the benefits of attending industry-specific events like the 'Together in the Trades' cruise. Alicia also discusses her journey in consulting, emphasizing the significance of proper business processes for growth and profitability. The conversation highlights the challenges and successes of balancing a demanding career, family life, and personal health. Additionally, Alicia delves into her roles in women's organizations and offers insights into the certification processes for women-owned businesses.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner discuss the impactful topic of mentoring and sponsoring other women. They address common myths about being too busy for mentorship and share tips on setting goals, making time, and providing constructive feedback. They also emphasize the importance of sharing experiences, providing networking opportunities, and celebrating achievements. The episode highlights a live interview with a young mentee and underscores the benefits of mentorship for the next generation of women in the construction industry. Finally, they encourage listeners to review the podcast and offer additional resources for formal mentoring.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner converse with Lori Briggs, President of Industrial Solutions at NewPark. The discussion revolves around Lori's 30-year journey in traditionally male-dominated industries like utilities, oil and gas, and construction. Lori shares candid insights about her challenges with imposter syndrome, being authentic, and navigating her career as an introvert. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, mentorship, and creating a supportive work environment. The episode also covers effective strategies for introverted leaders, such as taking time for reflection, ensuring their voices are heard, and balancing work with a fulfilling home life. Sponsored by: NewparkSupport the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this Episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner welcome Jamie Vanek, President of Etolin Strait Development Group and founder of Adminnovate. Jamie shares her inspiring journey from an entry-level administrative professional to a leader in the construction industry. She discusses her mission to bridge the gap between project management and administration, and the vital role administrative support plays in business success. Jamie also emphasizes the importance of rethinking traditional admin roles and offers strategies for empowering women and minorities in the industry. The conversation highlights the significance of mentorship and the need for inclusive voices at the decision-making table.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of Women Talk Construction, hosts Angela Gardner and Christi Powell introduce their very first female welder guest, Casey Ross. Casey shares her journey in the welding industry, including her current role as the Academic Program Director and welding instructor at Greenville Tech. She talks about her inspirations, challenges, and achievements, along with the significant impact of women in the welding field. The discussion also covers the importance of mentorship, emotional resilience, and the upcoming state-of-the-art Center for Welding and Automation Excellence facility at Greenville Tech. Casey offers insights and advice for young women considering a career in welding and stresses the importance of having a supportive community.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of Women Talk Construction, co-hosts Angela and Christi discuss the Commerce Department's pledge to bring over a million women into the construction industry. They highlight the importance of experienced workers, strategic training, and equitable hiring practices under the Chips and Science Act. The episode also covers the involvement of major companies in the initiative, the need for flexible work arrangements, and the significance of supportive services for women in construction. Angela and Christi share personal stories and advice on how women can succeed in this traditionally male-dominated field.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of the 'Women Talk Construction' podcast, hosts welcome special guest Katie Throckmorton, owner and GC of Distinct Builders, to discuss her journey and experiences as a woman entrepreneur in the construction industry. Key topics include the importance of women-owned business certifications, challenges faced by women starting businesses later in life, government contracts, and the impact of mentoring. Katie shares her inspiring story of starting her construction business at age 59, the benefits of certifications like WeBank, and her commitment to community service, including assisting seniors with vital home repairs. Listeners also learn about various resources and networks that support women in construction.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of Women Talk Construction, Angela Gardner and Christi Powell talk with Jason Blair, CEO of Talon, about his inspiring career journey in the construction industry. Jason shares his experiences, emphasizing the importance of patience, accountability, and leadership. He discusses the 'Oz Principle' and how its culture of accountability has positively impacted his company. The episode also highlights the unique challenges and opportunities for women in the construction industry and the need for more inclusive workplaces. Jason's advocacy for women in leadership roles and the importance of respectful communication provide valuable insights for professionals at all levels.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of Women Talk Construction, host Christi Powell, along with guest co-host Alex Iacovelli, interviews Lysa Solano, a senior construction manager at Cire Equity and recent recipient of the San Diego Business Journal Women of Influence and Construction Award. Lysa discusses her role in managing construction projects across the U.S., strategies for balancing multiple projects, and the importance of communication and organization. She also shares her journey into construction, and advice on entering the industry, and highlights the crucial role of networking and building relationships. Lysa's dedication to promoting women in construction and her rewarding experiences, including a notable project during COVID-19, underscore her professional pride and drive. Thanks for listening!Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of Women Talk Construction, hosts Christi Powell and Angela Gardner are joined by Amy from Superior Construction to discuss the company's efforts in creating a supportive environment for women in the construction industry. Amy shares the origins and impact of Superior's Women in Construction program and highlights her own journey, celebrating her recent MBA achievement. The discussion covers mental health challenges, the importance of relationship building, and advice for women considering a transition into the construction field. Listeners are encouraged to follow Superior Construction on social media and reach out to Amy for support and guidance. Thanks for listening!Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode: Angela Gardner and Christi Powell discuss the significant impact of the Women Construction Owners and Executives (WCOE) organization. Christi shares her profound experiences and the benefits of attending WCOE conferences, highlighting the organization's 40-year history of advocating for women business owners in the construction industry. They delve into WCOE's mission to provide business connections, education, and advocacy, and its role in shaping policy and creating a supportive network for women in construction. Christi also touches on how WCOE has helped her personally and professionally, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, networking, and the diverse opportunities for women to grow their businesses within the construction industry. Additionally, the hosts discuss upcoming events, the organizational structure of WCOE, and how to get involved, encouraging listeners to leverage this powerful platform for their growth and success in the construction sector.Support the Show.

In this episode: Christi Powell and Angela Gardner discuss the challenges and opportunities for women in traditionally male-dominated fields, such as construction and aviation. Our special guest, Michelle 'MACE' Curran, a former fighter pilot and combat veteran, shares her journey from a small town in Wisconsin with no aviation background to becoming a fighter pilot and a solo pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds. Curran emphasizes the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and pushing limits both in aviation and life. She discusses the role of fitness in achieving peak performance and highlights the increasing number of women in aviation, attributing it to greater exposure and inspirational figures. Curran's transition from military to civilian life as an author and keynote speaker is driven by her desire to inspire and give back to the community. The episode also features a discussion on the key to successful teamwork and the essential nature of building trust among team members. Mace's insights are aimed at motivating students and women to believe in their potential and pursue their ambitions, regardless of the challenges they may encounter.Support the Show.

In this episode: Christi Powell & Angela Gardner feature Brittany Gentilhomme, an Assistant Superintendent from R. C. Matthews, discussing her unconventional path to the construction industry. With a degree in communication and diverse job experiences, including landscaping and fashion merchandising, Brittany shares how each role contributed to her problem-solving and leadership skills in construction. She emphasizes the role of storytelling in advocating for women and young people to pursue careers in construction and outlines her involvement with NAWIC and Crew Collab. Brittany also highlights the importance of listening, organization, and a fresh perspective on job sites. Additionally, the podcast touches on Brittany's personal achievements and her passion for changing landscapes and lives through construction.Support the Show.