Each year in March, our industry celebrates women in construction that have stood out in their careers. Their shared experience helps raise awareness of the opportunities for women in construction and sets the stage for future generations of leaders in the industry.
In today's installment of Women in Construction, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Rachel Sales, Senior Credit Manager at Elite Roofing Supply, to gain her perspective on career inequalities, mentorship opportunities and the current state of the women in construction.
Suppli
What drew you into the construction industry?
Rachel
When I decided to go back to work, I saw an ad for a credit professional in the roofing industry and got the interview! It was a complete accident.
Suppli
How did you begin working at Elite Roofing Supply?
Rachel
I joined Elite in August 2022 after 18 years in the roofing industry. Like many others, I had been laid off due to a department restructuring but was able to utilize the professional network I had built over the years to get connected with Elite Roofing. They were excited about the prospect of adding my experience and education, specifically in roofing, to their growing company.
Suppli
Compared to other industries, why construction? What is it about construction that has kept you hooked for over 15 years?
Rachel
The construction industry is ever changing and offers a vast array of opportunities. The industry keeps my days from being boring! I can’t imagine not being challenged or learning a new concept on a daily basis.
Suppli
One of the major components of the construction industry is mechanic's lien and bond law. How did you develop an understanding of these complex concepts that are required to protect your company from credit risk?
Rachel
Thankfully I joined some industry specific associations and made connections with some amazing peers, attorneys and mentors. It was a LOT of on-the-job training and was not easy!
Suppli
Did you have a mentor?
Rachel
Definitely! I met Linda Sparks and Dustin Allen during the beginning of my career who not only encouraged me to join this industry and supported my early grow, but also introduced me to resources where I could find additional training. They pointed me towards necessary certification courses, in-person conferences and really showed me the value of giving back to the industry. I still talk with them to this day!
Suppli
What educational resources are you most excited about in the industry today?
Rachel
NAWIC and NWIR are two of the countless associations and organizations that are growing and continue to provide women with networking, resource and educational opportunities. These did not exist 20 years ago! Women need to get involved in these groups and become active in the community. Lead the way for others!
Suppli
Do you believe there is still an issue for women in construction?
Rachel
I believe women in construction have come a long way, but there are still many hurdles to jump through.
Suppli
Do you find that women have a different view and perspective on situations that companies should see as an advantage?
Rachel
Construction is still male dominated, no doubt. But women are an untapped asset to the industry. We need to be supported and encouraged to succeed.
Suppli
What do you think the construction industry could do to attract more female candidates?
Rachel
Promote the women they have within their companies and support their efforts to recruit more women.
Suppli
Is there anything in your career of which you are particularly proud of?
Rachel
My involvement as a member and council leader with NWIR and the other mentoring opportunities that have been afforded to me over the years, are all proud moments for me. I am dedicated to leaving a positive, powerful impact for years to come by mentoring and supporting women within construction.
Suppli
What advice would you give a to a young woman entering the industry?
Rachel
Find a mentor and go for it! Never stop learning and looking for ways to be part of the team, whether it be in the office or in the field. Women can lay a solid foundation for other women who want a career in construction.
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