Join Pinkard in celebrating Women in Construction Week.
In Colorado, the construction industry is facing a historic and problematic worker shortage, making diversity and gender equality a vital initiative for the overall longevity of any organization. Today, Women make up just 10% of those employed in the construction industry, and Pinkard wants to celebrate its female employees who are working to make the industry more accessible to women.
Pinkard women like Odette Bent-Buckles, Pinkard Chief Financial Officer, make it clear that there is a place for women at Pinkard at every level.
“Having served three years in the U.S. Army, I enjoyed the rewards of teamwork and comradery,” Buckles says. “And you find that in construction.”
Like so many others in the industry, Odette also takes great satisfaction in helping build things.
(L-R) Jessica Nichols and Christine Fuentes, Jenna Carosio, Odette Bent-Buckles
Pinkard Marketing Director, Jessica Nichols, was recently identified as a Waymaker by the Associated General Contractors. An honor that recognizes her work to pave the way for other female construction professionals.
“I think that it is important that there are no barriers for anyone who wants a career in construction,” said Nichols. “It is a shame to think that a woman with skills to offer might not consider this career path because she may not fit the ‘traditional image’ of a construction worker.”
Leadership is critical, but working in the field is an exciting opportunity for professionals with a hands-on approach, no matter their gender.
“There is constant problem-solving. I’m rarely just sitting at a desk staring at the computer,” Pinkard Assistant Superintendent, Jenna Carosio, explains. “It’s an industry where you’ll never know everything, so I feel like I’m always being challenged and expanding my knowledge.”
After nearly a decade in the industry, Carosio sees being a woman as an asset for innovation.
“Don’t be afraid to do things or handle situations differently than your male counterparts,” she says. “Your method of doing something might be unconventional for the industry, but it could also be more effective.”
The challenge of attracting female talent in a typically male-dominated industry is all about women telling their stories, mainly how the work differs from stereotypes. Megan Zwart, a Pinkard Project Engineer, says that the job constantly changes and adds new challenges that keep her engaged and growing as a professional.
“I love the ever-changing work environment. Not one day looks the same,” she says. “Even though it sometimes seems like I’m drinking a firehose of information, I’m constantly learning new things, and I love it.”
Megan also appreciates how Pinkard, in particular, looks out for its team members.
“Ever since I’ve started, I’ve felt that Pinkard is an employee-driven company,” she says. “They actually care about their employee’s wellness. It’s refreshing to be a part of a company like that.”
