What are you doing differently in 2019 that has had a positive impact on your career? I’m thinking outside of the box. Earlier in my career I asked less questions and was willing to accept that there was only one way to build something. As I’ve developed my construction knowledge, I’ve found that if my teams take the time to dive into issues,
What are you doing differently in 2019 that has had a positive impact on your career? I’ve begun delegating more to increase my team’s opportunities to grow and challenge themselves, which in turn allows me to do the same. I used to do everything myself– which didn’t really help anyone–and now we’re able to lean on each other for support as we continue to develop our skills.
What were your biggest fears when you started out in your profession? Failing and not being able to grasp all aspects of my position. I overcame these fears by asking questions and accomplishing small tasks, rather than getting overwhelmed by the big picture.
What are you doing differently in 2019 that has had a positive impact on your career? In 2019, I am making the conscious decision to not ask for permission to do the right thing. Whether it’s making a definitive decision in the field or setting up a training session with junior staff, I’m just doing it. “See a need, fill a need.”
What was your first job and what did you learn from it? I worked for a masonry contractor in Boston, where I quickly learned how few female voices there are in this trade and how important mastering a clear, deliberate, informed voice is when striving for success. Establishing my voice didn’t happen overnight—especially as a newly-graduated project manager—but once I found it, it was a serious game changer.
What are you doing differently in 2019 that has had a positive impact on your career? I think one of the most important things you can do to maintain a successful career is to keep learning. I have made a big effort over the past few years to learn about a new technology or system on every project.
How many years have you been in your current field? 13
What are you doing differently in 2019 that has had a positive impact on you...
What were your biggest fears when you started out in your profession? My biggest fear when I started out was failing because I was going into a field I had never worked in. Erland really took the time to foster my learning and allowed me to embrace all of the future opportunities that were presented to me in this role. Having that support has made me truly successful in my position.
What are you doing differently in 2019 that has had a positive impact on your career? I think really taking the time to acknowledge your personal wins has a huge, positive impact on your career. It’s not that you need to humble, brag, or toot your own horn, but you should never downplay your success at work.
What was your first job and what did you learn from it? My first job out of Wentworth Institute of Technology was working with a concrete contractor in Staten Island. It was not my ideal career choice, but the market was weak at the time. After working in the trailer for a few months, I was let go and scrambling to find a new job.
