2022 Women in Construction: Tracy Routhier, Senior Project Manager at Fontaine Bros., Inc.

Starting out in the construction business, who or what empowered you? At the start of my career, I worked as an office manager for a general contractor. The longer I was there, the more I realized ultimately that I wanted to become a project manager. What empowered me the most were the challenges of not always being taken seriously as a young woman in a male dominated field. So, to prove how serious and capable I was, I dug in. I looked for any opportunities to learn more by being part of as many processes as I could, I asked for more responsibilities, and I enrolled in a college construction management program while working full time and being a single mom.

Within your firm, who has helped you succeed within the industry? How have they helped you? The two owners of Fontaine Bros., David Sr. and David Jr., have hands-down supported my success in this industry with their consistent leadership. They have put together an amazing team of colleagues whom I have had the opportunity to work with over the last five years. Fontaine employs people who have a passion for what they do, who support their teams, and have a willingness to teach and learn from each other.

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? My best advice for women entering the construction industry is to surround yourself with people who support you. There are a lot of people in the industry that want to see you succeed. Know how capable you truly are, and if you find yourself in a place that doesn’t support you, find the place that does.

When you’re not busy, what is your go to book or podcast to help you unwind? I love comedic relief, so I tend to binge watch shows like The Office. Because of that, one of my favorite podcasts is The Office Ladies which breaks down episodes and gives behind the scenes tidbits about show. I do love good mystery novels with detective or police work, so I usually turn to books like those written by Janet Evanovich or Stuart Woods.