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? When I first started in the electrical trade, I definitely experienced my share of uncertainty. I had no experience or training – I didn’t know what to do or how to do it. I was worried about whether or not I would fit in and be accepted by a predominantly male work atmosphere.
Which project, deal or transaction was the “game changer” in the advancement of your career during the last 10 years? The game changer for me was when we started to seek out the right people with the right experience from established companies (in different areas of the electrical industry) who mentor us to this day
Which was the “game changer” in the advancement of your career during the last 10 years? My career game changer was four years ago when I stepped away from my role at the director of government affairs for the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and into the role of assistant manager of the Boston chapter.
What were your biggest fears when you started out in your profession? I worried that in such a male-dominated industry, maybe I wouldn’t be well-respected or fit in. I was coming from outside the construction industry and outside of unions. But what I found is that there is a real camaraderie within unions, and that the building trades are working hard to create opportunities for women. It’s been a great journey.
Which project, deal or transaction was the “game changer” in the advancement of your career during the last 10 years? Joining the union. The opportunity to be a part of Local 103 has changed my life and my children’s’ lives for the better. I didn’t start out with much in life, and after being a stay at home mom for so long I wasn’t sure I would be able to do it.
What was your first job and what did you learn from it? As a high school student, I was a part-time receptionist at my martial arts school. I learned that it is more important to engage with people than to check the tasks off my list, no matter how long the list might be!
Who are three women – living or dead – that you would like to have drinks with and why? Ellen Degenerous because it would be hilarious and entertaining; Michelle Obama because her class and grace are truly inspiring; and Emma Rocha because…who wouldn’t?
What were your biggest fears when you started out in your profession? Because my background is not technical I felt that I did not belong. I quickly learned that the emotional intelligence and soft skills that I bring to the table provides our team with a well-rounded outlook.
Which project, deal or transaction was the “game changer” in the advancement of your career during the last 10 years? 3W53 St., by Jean Nouvel – I was on-site full-time to observe curtain wall installation. I’m proud to be involved in the field team and to have made an impact in the CA phase.
