Building Your Story

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What if more young people knew what construction really had to offer?

In this episode, I sit down with Beth Marchant, Marketing Manager at Hewson Brothers Building Supply and Vice President of Legacy Builders Ontario, a non-profit on a mission to introduce students to the many career paths available in construction and help inspire the next generation of industry professionals.

Beth didn't follow a traditional path into construction. With a background in marketing and visual merchandising, she discovered an industry full of innovation, passionate people, and opportunities far beyond what most people imagine.

In this episode:

08:00 - Finding a passion for construction through marketing
 13:57 - What Legacy Builders Ontario is doing to inspire the next generation
 18:33 - The biggest misconceptions students have about construction careers
 24:03 - How volunteers are making an impact in classrooms across Ontario
 27:47 - What the industry can do to help solve the workforce shortage
 32:58 - The vision for Legacy Builders and expanding across Ontario
 35:32 - How construction can do a better job telling its story
 44:48 - Advice for young women considering a career in construction

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Cali-Anna Elliott on Starting in HVAC, Challenging Trade Stereotypes, and Finding Confidence Through Apprenticeship

Over the course of a year and three conversations, Cali-Anna Elliott shares her journey from having never picked up a tool to becoming a confident HVAC apprentice. From choosing the trades almost by accident, to navigating trade school, working independently in the field, and discovering the "why" behind the work, this episode offers an honest look at what it's really like to start a career in the skilled trades today.

We discuss the realities of apprenticeship, the importance of mentorship and support networks, and why being smart and working in the trades are not mutually exclusive. Cali-Anna also reflects on overcoming self-doubt, learning from mistakes, and the mindset that continues to drive her growth: "Why not?"

Key Topics:

• Choosing the trades with no previous experience
• Building confidence through mistakes, mentorship, and hands-on learning
• Trade school and learning the "why" behind HVAC systems
• Challenging stereotypes about intelligence and skilled trades careers
• Women in trades, support networks, and finding community
• Setting goals, continuous learning, and personal growth
• Looking back on how far she's come and where she's headed next

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Making Space for Change: The Journey of Sarah Sipkar and Resomate

Discover how Sarah Cipkar transitioned from community activism and urban planning to founding Resomate, a pioneering company focused on backyard homes and modular construction solutions that address housing shortages. Her story highlights the power of hands-on experimentation, innovative use of technology, and the importance of community-focused solutions in modern urban development.

In this episode, we discussed:

• Sarah's unconventional path from childhood community leader to CEO of Resimate
• The inception of backyard ADUs during COVID and their potential to reshape housing in Canada
• Navigating the construction industry without a traditional background
• How policy, technology, and community needs intersect in Sarah’s work
• The role of women in construction and leadership and fostering diversity in startups
• Practical advice on networking, mentorship, and leveraging creativity in a fast-paced industry

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introducing Sarah Cipkar and her mission to simplify backyard housing
 02:17 - From childhood leadership to community politics and early passions
 09:22 - The story of building her backyard ADU during COVID
 12:10 - Transitioning from personal project to a tech-driven solution with Resimate
 13:22 - Lessons learned about construction and industry perceptions
 16:11 - Core business: modular, offsite backyard homes in Canada
 23:23 - Sarah’s relationship with the construction industry and her evolving role
 35:53 - Strategies for effective networking and support for women in industry
 40:37 - Reflecting on achievements and the importance of autonomy in her journey
 46:14 - Advice for young women considering careers in construction
 
 

This episode explores innovative approaches to urban housing, emphasizing community impact, diversity, and entrepreneurship within the construction and urban planning sectors.

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From Ballet Barre to Construction Site: Cara Grand's Journey

Cara Grand’s journey from ballerina to construction leader is a masterclass in resilience and purpose. Discover how her passion for learning fueled a career shift from dance to managing billion-dollar projects. Cara shares insights on leadership, balancing motherhood, and breaking barriers in male-dominated fields. Her story is a testament to the power of curiosity and perseverance in crafting a fulfilling career. Perfect for those seeking inspiration to transform passion into impactful careers.

Key Topics:

• Transition from ballet to construction
• Overcoming challenges and embracing new opportunities
• Balancing career and motherhood
• Lessons in leadership and authenticity

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction
 05:41 - Challenges in ballet
 10:11 - Career shift to construction
 19:06 - Leadership journey
 31:42 - Work-life balance insights
 43:46 - Advice for young women

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From Shyness to Leadership: Nancy Weinman's Journey in Architecture

Join Nancy Weinman as she shares her inspiring journey from a shy child to a leading architect and construction manager. Discover her experiences in a male-dominated industry and her dedication to mentoring future women leaders.

Key topics:

• Early influences and dreams in art and architecture
• Overcoming challenges as a woman in architecture
• Career evolution from federal work to founding her own firm
• Building client relationships and managing luxury home projects
• Mentorship and empowering women in construction
• Personal philosophies on creativity and self-care

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Nancy's journey 

02:00 - Early career challenges and inspirations 

10:00 - Transition to construction management 

18:00 - Founding her own firm 

25:00 - Mentorship and industry changes 

35:00 - Advice for young women in architecture

Resources & Links:

• Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)
• Nancy Weinman's LinkedIn

Connect with Nancy Weinman:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

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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.