2019 Women in Construction: Kenell Broomstein Business Agent IBEW Local 103

Which project, deal or transaction was the “game changer” in the advancement of your career during the last 10 years? Becoming the first black, female business agent of any major Boston construction union last year with IBEW Local 103.
What were your biggest fears when you started out in your profession? My biggest fear was not being able to past my electrical test. Hah! I passed with flying colors.

What was your first job and what did you learn from it? When I was 16, I started my first job ever bagging groceries at Ernie’s Fruit Market in Lynn. I learned the value of a dollar and that if I wanted something, I had to work hard for it. Nothing is free. I became determined to do more and that drive got me to where I am today.

Who are three women – living or dead – that you would like to have drinks with and why? Definitely my mother, Ellen Broomstein, who has passed. I never got a chance to know her or her family and I’d love the chance to talk to her about my amazing work -- both at Local 103 and raising my two boys. I’d also choose my late foster grandmother, Addie Hollins, who fought to help keep my family together when we went into her custody. I know she would be proud of me, and I’d tell her thank you for caring for my younger sisters and I so selflessly. Lastly I’d choose former First Lady Michelle Obama. She has been a true inspiration to so many different people, and especially to young Black girls and Black women.