About
How RCW Got Started....
Hi there!
I'm Stevi Smith, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to this new and evolving platform dedicated to Real Construction Women globally.
I am you & I see you!
My journey in the world of hard work and dirt, a domain traditionally dominated by men, began unexpectedly 24 years ago with the railroad. It was a path I never anticipated, but fate led me there, and it turned out to be an incredibly tough, hands-on and rewarding experience.
Each day was a battle, not just against the physical challenges of the job, but also against the ingrained stereotypes and biases that often sideline women in such fields.
Just when I felt like I was making headway, breaking through the barriers and proving my mettle, the ground beneath me shifted: I was laid off. This blow came after dedicating over two and a half decades of my life, battling not just the elements but also the entrenched gender norms. It wasn't just a job loss; it felt like a negation of all the grit and perseverance I had poured into my career.
Then, a new chapter opened. My husband, deeply rooted in the construction industry, got a chance to travel across the country for work. For about three years, we moved from place to place, and he was deeply involved in various roles, from quality control to safety. Seeing his involvement, I thought, "If you can't beat them, join them!" So, I started in safety and gradually transitioned into an office role when we settled back in Jacksonville, Florida.
Working in the field first has given me a profound appreciation for the hard, backbreaking work it involves. It's incredible to see so many women out there who love both the field and office aspects of this industry. Now, I find myself doing a mix of both – from site visits to managing things in the office, I've gotten to know every angle of a project.
Part of working in the office was about finding subcontractors. This task was challenging, and I've always known that women are some of the hardest workers. It was always gratifying to find and collaborate with them. However, I noticed a significant gap in the industry – there was no dedicated platform promoting women in construction. This realization struck a chord with me. As a woman who has navigated both the rugged terrain of onsite work and the strategic planning of the office, I understood the need for a space where women could connect, find opportunities, and showcase their skills.
So, out of my problem, I aimed to solve a broader issue affecting many in our field. That's how Real Construction Women was born. This platform is more than just a networking site; it's a community, a resource, and a beacon for women in construction. Whether you're looking for subcontractors, job opportunities, or simply want to connect with like-minded professionals who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of working in construction, Real Construction Women is here for you.
We are reshaping the landscape of the construction industry, one connection at a time. By highlighting the contributions of women in this field and providing a space for their growth and recognition, we are not only solving a problem but also empowering an entire segment of the industry that has been underrepresented for far too long. Join us in this exciting and transformative journey with Real Construction Women, where every woman in construction can find her place and make her mark.
Hi there!
I'm Stevi Smith, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to this new and evolving platform dedicated to Real Construction Women globally.
We are in this together!
My journey in the world of hard work and dirt, a domain traditionally dominated by men, began unexpectedly 24 years ago with the railroad. It was a path I never anticipated, but fate led me there, and it turned out to be an incredibly tough, hands-on and rewarding experience.
Each day was a battle, not just against the physical challenges of the job, but also against the ingrained stereotypes and biases that often sideline women in such fields.
Just when I felt like I was making headway, breaking through the barriers and proving my mettle, the ground beneath me shifted: I was laid off. This blow came after dedicating over two and a half decades of my life, battling not just the elements but also the entrenched gender norms. It wasn't just a job loss; it felt like a negation of all the grit and perseverance I had poured into my career.
Then, a new chapter opened. My husband, deeply rooted in the construction industry, got a chance to travel across the country for work. For about three years, we moved from place to place, and he was deeply involved in various roles, from quality control to safety. Seeing his involvement, I thought, "If you can't beat them, join them!" So, I started in safety and gradually transitioned into an office role when we settled back in Jacksonville, Florida.
Working in the field first has given me a profound appreciation for the hard, backbreaking work it involves. It's incredible to see so many women out there who love both the field and office aspects of this industry. Now, I find myself doing a mix of both – from site visits to managing things in the office, I've gotten to know every angle of a project.
Part of working in the office was about finding subcontractors. This task was challenging, and I've always known that women are some of the hardest workers. It was always gratifying to find and collaborate with them. However, I noticed a significant gap in the industry – there was no dedicated platform promoting women in construction. This realization struck a chord with me. As a woman who has navigated both the rugged terrain of onsite work and the strategic planning of the office, I understood the need for a space where women could connect, find opportunities, and showcase their skills.
So, out of my problem, I aimed to solve a broader issue affecting many in our field. That's how Real Construction Women was born. This platform is more than just a networking site; it's a community, a resource, and a beacon for women in construction. Whether you're looking for subcontractors, job opportunities, or simply want to connect with like-minded professionals who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of working in construction, Real Construction Women is here for you.
We are reshaping the landscape of the construction industry, one connection at a time. By highlighting the contributions of women in this field and providing a space for their growth and recognition, we are not only solving a problem but also empowering an entire segment of the industry that has been underrepresented for far too long. Join us in this exciting and transformative journey with Real Construction Women, where every woman in construction can find her place and make her mark.
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