Breaking Barriers: Gray and Amazon Partner for Women in Construction Week

We would not be able to effectively deliver on our projects if it weren’t for the women who are not only a part of the Gray family, but also those who contribute to projects as a part of subcontractor or vendor teams.

“The passion skills, perspective, and integrity of the women who contribute here have allowed us to grow into a thriving business,” says Brian Jones, president & chief executive officer of Gray Construction. “We say thank you, not just today, but every day, for not only making a positive difference at Gray, but also for helping advance our customers and our industry.”

As a part of Women in Construction Week, Gray is partnering with Amazon to celebrate and highlight the women who have helped play a vital role across the six projects in which we have partnered with the world’s largest online retailer.

What does it mean to you to be a woman in the construction industry?

Anna Gonroski, apprentice at LPR Construction – Being a woman in the construction industry is awesome. I love the fact that I am an ironworker and helping to build America one building at a time. Not many women can do what I do safely and go home to my family. Also, what is really great is the men that I work with really see me as part of the team. I know they have my back, and I have theirs.

Marcia Turner, safety technician at Gray – Being a woman in construction means having the ability to make a difference in the economic future of our nation. In my line of work, I am able to influence people in many positive ways by helping build a safety culture as well as developing many positive relationships.

Emily Rumrill, project manager at Goyette Mechanical – Of all the project sites I have been on, it is usually pretty clear early on that I am one of very few women on site. Every time I do see another woman on site, I feel almost an instant camaraderie with them. Being a woman in construction, as it’s a male-dominated environment, does present its challenges; but it’s also incredibly rewarding. My experience in construction has taught me to not be afraid to speak up, to exercise confidence in my knowledge and skillset, but also to also listen to others’ thoughts and ideas.

Heidi Seibert, safety officer at California Retail Builders – Being a woman in construction means having a purpose. It’s a place I have found allows me to use a wide range of my skills, talents, and strengths in one place. I’m able to utilize multi-tasking, problem solving, management skills, public relations, crisis management, and my love of growing something from start to completion. I love the purpose felt when the daily challenges of construction elevate my desire to perform to the best of my ability so that I can support my team and help push a project to completion.

Tameshea Williams, COVID-19 coordinator consultant – To me, being a woman in the construction industry means we’re able to perform a job and add value, just like men.

Sideo Kelly, lead COVID-19 coordinator consultant – As a young African American woman, working in construction makes you feel very valuable in a society. You’re working in a job that you know can change people’s quality of life. I think it’s amazing, and we need more women in this field.

Diana Urbina, safety technician at Gray – It feels really great to be one of the many women in the construction industry in a, typically, male-dominated field. We have made and continue to make strides in our different roles. For me personally, it means a great deal. Being able to communicate in both English and Spanish in orientation class, help lead job-wide meetings, participate in safety meetings, and anything else is so gratifying. Meeting many people of different nationalities, ethnic background, and the diversity of people in construction is powerful. Unity, working as a team, and strong communication are the keys to how we go from an empty lot to the finished product.

“The women of Gray are invaluable members of our team,” says Patrick McCowan, chief operating officer at Gray Construction. “It’s exciting to be able to collaborate with a customer like Amazon who shares our passions and excitement to celebrate women.”

This is why we recognize women in construction. Without the women of Gray, the past 60+ years of history would have unfolded very differently. We would not be where we are today without the women leading the way and making a difference in construction.

If a career in construction is something you would like to pursue with Gray, please visit gray.com/careers for more information on joining the Gray family.