Q&A WITH ALISON MARKER FOR WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION WEEK
Q: WHAT (OR WHO) INSPIRES YOU IN YOUR WORK IN CONSTRUCTION?
AM: I wake up each day inspired to do everything in my power to make this a great and sustainable company – to provide the opportunities for our current and future associates to do what they love doing; to build a culture that is inclusive, strong, hardworking, and engaged; to ensure that we execute with precision for our clients; and to give back to our communities. That’s what drives me. And I wouldn’t want to be doing anything else.
Q: WHAT DO YOU LOVE THE MOST ABOUT THIS INDUSTRY?
AM: Every day is a challenge and every day is different. It keeps things interesting and it satisfies my love for problem-solving, even though I never seem to be able to cross anything off my to-do list!
I also really love the people in our industry – hardworking, smart, loyal, committed, and strong.
Q: WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO YOUNGER WOMEN TO ENCOURAGE THEM TO CONSIDER A CAREER IN CONSTRUCTION?
AM: The opportunities for women (and men) are endless! I never thought I’d end up in construction – but I also never really understood the different avenues one could take.
This business is so much more than building buildings; it’s about working with people – clients, Architects, subcontractors, suppliers, internal team members – and that’s what I love to do. Getting all the right people together to make something happen is exciting.
Women tend to have different perspectives and different ways of working through challenges. The conversations change; they open up and become much more robust; more real. I’ve seen the benefits of increased collaboration and egos being set aside when a woman is on the team.
Q: WHY DID YOU CHOOSE CONSTRUCTION? WHAT LED YOU HERE?
AM: I never thought I would end up in the family business. My parents always supported me to find my passion and follow it. My passion was always in helping people, which led me to a career as a private practice psychotherapist. About eight years ago, my dad (our president at the time) reached out to see if I would be interested in helping him develop the new Columbus office (recruiting, hiring, building culture, etc.). I figured I’d give it a couple of years and then I’d go back to private practice. BUT, I got drawn in. I started to insert myself into the different areas of the business, and I just fell in love. It’s such a dynamic industry. I got deeper and deeper into things, and here I am!
Q: WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST SURPRISING PART OF BEING A WOMAN WORKING IN CONSTRUCTION?
AM: I came from an industry dominated by women (psychotherapy/counseling), so I wasn’t sure what to expect when I made the transition to this industry about eight years ago. I have definitely seen my fair share of people treating me like their clerk and waitress; but I have been pleasantly surprised by those in this industry who want to teach, develop, mentor and support women (especially our Superintendents). If I don’t know something about construction, they are happy to walk through it with me.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT IN CONSTRUCTION?
AM: My best memories are of our company-wide gatherings with our associates. My heart feels like it’s going to burst every time we get together for company parties or service award events – I have so much love for our associates; knowing how hard they work – especially those on the jobsites. A week ago, we had a company-wide training and I literally had tears in my eyes. There’s something so special about our associates and I am so grateful to be a part of this company.
I also remember when I was told (more than once) that it’s not okay to show vulnerability (tears) at work. J I’ve never been able to follow that advice.
Q: DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE PROJECT?
AM: My favorite construction project that I’ve been involved with has been the Holland Theatre (historical renovation). I grew up going to the theatre for movies with my friends; the Executive Director of the theatre was one of my favorite teachers in school; I was in the drama club (yes, I’m a Thespian for life) and love performances; and it’s a special landmark for the Bellefontaine community. The building committee (Kris Swisher, Chris Westhoff, Mike Suman) and the Architect (Karen Beasley) were such a fun and passionate group to work with. Our Superintendent (Pat Heilman), Project Manager (Corbin Ledley), and our skilled tradespeople were phenomenal. It was a great project and a magical space. I really enjoy working on projects that mean something to the community.
My favorite non-construction project I’ve been involved with was our recent rebranding process. Working with our marketing partner (P48 Marketing) to develop a new logo, website, new look and feel – was definitely a challenging process, but so necessary and so rewarding. I’m proud of what we accomplished together!