This week we celebrate and recognize the women in construction at ABC Keystone. Cindy has been with ABC Keystone for 30 years, and is dedicated to increasing partnerships and articulation agreements with schools and organizations to work together to help build future leaders.

What has been the most memorable moment in your career?
My most memorable moment was seeing a past apprentice succeed! The student struggled during the first year of his apprenticeship, but he worked hard and graduated from the program. I recently ran into the student, and he shared that he is now running jobs, has a company vehicle, and loves his career. The smile and pride on his face is an image I will never forget. I told him how proud I was of him and how his hard work paid off. I know there are many similar stories, but the image of his face and smile was truly priceless and reiterated why I love my job.

What’s the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is working with the ABC team members and being a small part of introducing students and future apprentices to the many opportunities in the construction industry.  Each year in May, we have our Apprenticeship Graduation. This event is one of the major highlights of my job.  I genuinely admire the commitment and hard work the men and women completed to meet their graduation requirements.   

What are the advantages of being a woman in construction?
While I have never worked on a job site, I see how women bring different perspectives, ideas, and strengths to job sites and the construction industry.   

What do you think is the most important change happening in the construction industry?
There are many changes, but in my experience working with apprentices, we need to continue emphasizing the importance of soft skills, such as communication and work ethics, to provide future leaders in the construction industry.  The good news is ABC team members are continuing to increase partnerships and articulation agreements with schools and organizations to work together to help build future leaders.

How do you think construction can attract more female candidates?
We must continue to partner with schools and other organizations to make the younger generation aware of the many opportunities in the construction industry.  Also, continue events such as Construction Wars and Girls Camp to expose them to these opportunities.

What makes you proud of working in the construction industry?
In my 30 years at ABC Keystone, I have been in awe of the dedication and commitment that ABC members give to the ABC Association.  From serving on committees to attending events, many industry professionals commit time, money, and resources to the betterment of ABC and the construction industry.

Questions for Cindy, contact her at cindyd@abckeystone.org