Amy is the Controller at O.C. McDonald. She has been a member of NAWIC for 2 years and has been working in the construction industry for 15 years.
Why did you join NAWIC?
Three years ago I was hired at O.C. McDonald Co., bringing me to the South Bay for the first time in my career. I'm an East Bay native. A few women at OCM were NAWIC members and recommended that I join. I couldn't be happier! This has been a great experience to meet new people in Silicon Valley, explore the area, and expand my overall network.
What is your favorite event(s) with NAWIC?
I loved the job walk at Stanford Hospital, and the Bluebeam training session. As the Controller at my company, I'm familiar with all these names (job sites, software programs, etc.), but I rarely get outside the office to see it first-hand. I am also amazed to see women working in every facet of construction.
What advice do you have for Women who are new in Construction?
Become an expert in your field. Take on well-defined professional roles/titles as soon as possible, and be the best! This might involve taking classes, getting a mentor, and taking opportunities to showcase your knowledge. This is how you carve your niche. This is how people learn who you are and respect your boundaries. The unfortunate reality is that many people see women in supporting roles only. If you don't take charge of your own career development, people assume you are only there to support them. They offload their work on you, which wastes your time and detracts from your own growth. The best thing you can do is set your boundaries, develop yourself professionally, demand respect at all times, and don't volunteer for things that don't serve your personal growth.
What do you love about working in construction?
I come from a union construction family, so I feel I'm in the right place. My mom was, and sister is, an IBEW electrician. I work in the office, but it is still gratifying to know that I work in the same field as these strong women in my family. I might have joined the trades if not for a back injury I had as a teen. So I went to college and landed right where I belong - in construction! It just makes sense.
Anything else you would like other members to know about you?
I love snowboarding, backpacking, running - basically anything outdoors! I think it's important to keep our bodies in motion, especially if you sit all day like I do. Find something outside of work/housework that makes you happy, and do more of that!