2023 Women in Construction: Merari Pellot, W.L. French

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry?

My advice to woman getting into the industry is that knowledge truly is power. Become a “go-to” person for answers about what you know and what you don’t know. If you are asked about something you don’t know – find the answer and become a resource for that person. Be willing to learn all the time and become an indispensable source of information. My wish for all woman to have the opportunity to advance in the workplace if they have the talent and desire. We’re all in this game together. Diversity of all kinds contributes to the success of a team. Also, having self confidence matters and by having this we can create opportunities for not just ourselves but others too. Additionally, this is a dynamic industry that is constantly evolving – there are more woman in leadership roles and we have the ability and responsibility to show other woman this is a great industry with great growth potential. 

What has been your biggest challenge and how have you faced it?

Being a well-educated minority woman has its challenges, but motivation is the key. If we are committed to our goals and dreams we will succeed. “The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough,” - president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.