EN
Success in construction: Find your passion and your people
When someone says “construction,” the image that pops up in most people’s minds might be of a man in a yellow vest and a hard hat – because historically, construction has been a male-dominated industry.
But today, more women are working in construction than ever before. Nearly 1.3 million women (11% of the construction workforce) worked in the industry in 2022. That’s a 53% increase throughout the past decade. So, what’s the secret for a woman – or anyone – looking to build a successful career in construction?
Women at Emery Sapp & Sons (ESS) are crushing it every day in a variety of roles at all levels because they’re hard-working, dedicated and supported by the people around them.
Meet two ESS employee-owners who are jump-starting their construction careers. They share why the key to success for anyone in construction is all about surrounding yourself with the right people to inspire you along the way.
Mikaila Stackhouse: My Career Journey
Maintenance of Traffic (MoT) Manager, Kansas City, MO
A day in my ESS life
I am the Maintenance of Traffic (MoT) Manager for the 69Express project in Overland Park, Kansas. My day varies depending on what’s going on in the field, but it goes from about 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. during our busy season. I regularly meet with other project engineers and superintendents to keep our project on deadline. I also spend time in the field helping with lane drops, striping, layout and checking on job progress.
Crushin’ it on the job
I’m young and I’m still learning, but I think I’m crushing it on the 69Express project, especially since it’s new for me and such a highly trafficked job.
“Mikaila is not scared to jump in and get her hands dirty. She’s constantly asking questions to learn more about everything we do, and she is great at building relationships with all our employee-owners.” -Donnie Stevenson, Senior Project Manager
Finding my passion and my people
I wouldn’t have pursued a career in this industry without support and encouragement from my parents. I followed in my dad’s footsteps and worked in asphalt with him for six years, eventually switching over to traffic control. My mom has helped me keep going when I felt like I was failing or would never succeed in the business.
ESS colleagues like Donnie Stevenson and Paul Tierney have been a huge help in teaching and guiding me as I’ve learned a new position. I wouldn’t have made it this far without them.
Building your network
It can be a double whammy challenge to be in a supervisor role as a young woman in construction. It’s important for women in the office and in the field to find a network. Talk to other women and ask if there are groups they recommend. Groups like the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and Women of Asphalt are super beneficial and have programs for mentorship.
Take my advice
Construction is hard work. The hours and days will be long and there will be days when you want to quit. But don’t ever give up – be the bad*ss your younger self would want you to be.
Meet Kaitlyn Hartnagel
Estimator, Columbia, MO
A day in my ESS life
As an estimator, my days vary depending on the types of jobs we’re pursuing. I’ve recently been involved in a variety of activities in support of large design-build project pursuits. This includes gathering information and materials and supporting the estimators however they need it. I also help estimate traditional design-bid-build jobs.
Crushin’ it on the job
This year, I worked on the Improve I-70 Phase 2 Warrenton to Wentzville design-build pursuit, which is the largest single contract MoDOT has ever awarded. We won the job, and it was such a rewarding experience to be a part of a team that worked tirelessly to be successful.
“Kaitlyn has quickly stepped up and taken on any role she has been asked to do. She has become an integral team member, contributing to the pursuit of some of the largest projects ESS has ever won.” -Don Abell, P.E., Estimating Manager
Finding my passion and my people
My biggest inspiration to pursue construction came from my dad. He’s an engineer and is incredibly passionate and dedicated to his career. I was able to witness that firsthand, and I knew that was what I wanted to do from a young age.
At ESS, I have been fortunate enough to work alongside many motivated, driven people who are always willing to answer questions and share knowledge and advice. Working with supportive people pushes me to be the best version of myself.
Building your network
Sometimes you might be the only woman in the room or on the site, but that’s not always a challenge. It just means you might bring a different perspective.
I think one of the best ways to find a network is to get involved with organizations such as Associated General Contractors of Missouri (AGCMO)’s Women of Steel. They host events and conferences to network with women from other companies in the industry and help you grow personally and professionally.
Take my advice
Try new things, even if they feel out of your comfort zone, and you may even find something you really enjoy. You only get out what you put in, so work hard and maximize your opportunities.
