Opportunities for women in construction are on the rise! While women make up only a small portion of the construction industry, the tide could be turning as we look to the future. In fact, according to a study conducted by the We’re proud to have strong, capable women on our team. We want to highlight their achievements and contributions to both our company and the field as a whole. We sat down with Mandy Williams, a leader of inside sales at Boxley Brick and Hardscapes in Lynchburg, VA to hear about her experience in the construction industry. Keep reading to learn about her journey and to glean insights for other women who are looking to jump into a fulfilling and rewarding industry.
Tell us about yourself!
I would say that I am a hard-working, detailed oriented person who enjoys meeting and working with new people. I have a personality that is energetic and contagious to everyone I’m around.
After high school I joined the Air Force before receiving an Honorable Discharge. For about 7 years, while my kids were young, I stayed home with them and ran an in-home daycare. Then I went to work at Buckingham Slate. When I’m not working, one of my favorite things to do is spend time having fun with my family and friends.
How and when did you start working in construction? What has your path been like?
One of my babysitting clients worked for Buckingham Slate and told me about a job opening there. I was hired on Oct 6, 2016, as a scale operator. I came to work at Boxley Brick and Hardscapes when they merged with Buckingham Slate in June 2018. Today my role is in inside sales where I get to work with great people.
My path in the industry so far has been educational! I’ve learned so much about products that I initially had no idea about.
What is your favorite thing about working at Boxley Brick and Hardscapes?
I love the people I get to work with, both coworkers and customers. I also love the opportunities I have here to grow and learn new things.
What has been the biggest surprise about working in the construction industry?
I’ve been really amazed by just how much work goes into starting and completing a project. It’s one thing to see it from the outside, but I’ve come to appreciate everything that goes into making a project happen.
What advice would you give to other women wanting to get into construction?
Don’t overlook this industry, there are a lot of opportunities here. Give it a shot, it’s a good experience!
Boxley prides itself on a culture that’s inclusive of all abilities, backgrounds, and perspectives. We provide equitable opportunities for growth and advancement by nurturing the diverse talent that makes it possible to deliver the quality our customers have come to trust. If you’re interested in exploring a career in construction, visit our careers page to browse opportunities!