ABC-SEMI Southeast Michigan Contractors Issue 2, 2021

16 Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. WOMEN WORKFORCE Construction offers many career opportu- nities in the office or on the jobsite with competitive salaries—especially com- pared to other industries. While women in the U.S. workforce earn an average of 81.1% of what their male counterparts make, the gender pay gap in the con- struction sector is almost nonexistent, with women earning an average of 99.1% compared to men. In Michigan, the annual salary for a construction plumber is $62,530. For an electrician, the average is $62,480. Women returning to the workforce will be vital in ensuring America’s comeback. At ABC Southeast Michigan, we are committed to recruiting and upskilling women so we can continue to develop a diverse and inclusive construction industry. To learn more about career opportunities in construction during 2021 Women in Construction Week, March 7–13, visit www.abcsemi.org. Bridget left her former career in banking and real estate to join the family business. “I was so used to everything in the corporate world being done the same way. Now I relish the diversity of my job and love that everyday is going to be filled with some different challenge or opportunity.” “This type of work is not boring. Even if you already have a career in a different field, I encourage anyone with an interest in the trade to give it a look. It can be a life changing experience.” As a woman in the construction industry, I have learned working hard is only half the battle. Working smart and with true passion for what I do really makes me a competitor in this field. I spend every day making sure we are always at the top of our game which has enabled Altech Doors to become known as an industry expert. We are best at finding solutions for our customers, oftentimes with the personal touch a woman can provide. As a mother of two young adult women, I am passion- ate about empowering other women and continuously try to improve myself. I want to be an inspirational role model by showing them we can be top influencers in the construction industry. My advice for other women is to build a strong team foundation in the culture of your company, and it will carry over in whatever field you chose. I have found, in general, people will respond with mutual respect, appreciations, and become loyal customers. In April, Altech Doors will be celebrating its 17th anniversary. I am immensely proud of what we have built over the years as one of the top competitors in our industry and an employer of some of the best techni- cians I have ever had the pleasure to work with. BRIDGET KEWIN CFO of O’Donnel Electric SHERYN FLORN Owner/CFO Altech Doors, LLC “I believe women bring a new perspective to the construction industry and are not afraid of making changes in moving our industry forward.” – Melissa Kline Consumers Concrete