Ivonne Elizondo – Project Manager
Why did you choose to go into the construction field? I always liked physics and math so I knew I wanted to be an engineer, but I also loved management and finance. I decided that obtaining a Civil Engineering degree, as well as a Masters in Construction Management would allow me to do all the things I love. I am very happy with my decision!
What is your favorite part of your job? My favorite part of working in construction is being able to contribute to the creation of beautiful and functional spaces that have an impact on a lot of people for many years to come. I also love being able to visit past projects and see how the spaces serve communities, businesses, students, etc.
What has been the most surprising part of being a woman in construction? I’m surprised that not a lot of young girls see construction as a career option. One of my personal goals is to do my part in sharing my experiences as a woman in construction and inspire more girls to be interested in pursuing this amazing career path.
What advice would you give someone just starting out? Choose to do something you love, work hard to get where you want to be, and make sure you have fun along the way.
Jennifer Minott – Project Intelligence Program Manager
Why did you choose to go into the Engineering/Construction field? I started working for an Engineering firm when I was 19, so I have been involved in the industry for 21 years. I didn’t even necessarily go to school for Engineering, but over the years with all the experience I have gained, I kind of feel like an Engineer. And that’s a pretty cool feeling!
What is your favorite part of your job? The people I work with! I have been working at Wight & Company for 8 years and I really enjoy working with our Transportation Team. I also enjoy having the opportunity to meet and work with new people on each project I’m assigned.
What has been the most interesting part about being a woman in Engineering/Construction? Being in the Engineering Industry for as long as I have – one of the coolest parts is watching more and more woman join the construction industry. There are many more now than when I first started. It’s also an awesome feeling that regardless if you are a male or female, you are treated as part of the team.
What advice would you give someone just starting out? The advice I would give someone just starting out is that it may seem like there is a lot to know and things may be a little overwhelming at first, but if you stay retentive, love a good challenge, and have a great team to help guide/train you, this will help build you into a great Engineer.
Sheri Michaels – Documentation Technician
Why did you choose to go into the construction field? I wanted to choose a career that would always be challenging, had a variety of tasks, and would keep me continuously busy.
What is your favorite part of your job? I work on a wide variety of assignments. One project is always different than the next, so I am continually being challenged and growing, as well as sharing the knowledge I’ve learned with others and vice versa.
What has been the most surprising part of being a woman in construction? I never expected to have that sense of what I do is part of something bigger than myself. Knowing that I’m part of a team that is making positive impacts in the communities I grew up around, as well as showing the younger generation (like my daughter) that she can be a positive influence in her chosen career someday is a really powerful feeling.
What advice would you give someone starting out? The advice I have for anyone starting out in the field of Engineering/Construction is to enjoy the journey of learning, growing, and developing new ways to make beneficial and inspirational impacts in your community.
