I began as a high school student in the ADSB Student House Building Program where I then graduated with a Specialist High Skills Major in Construction. I Began working full time with SalDan as a general laborer and then as an Administrator and Health and Safety Coordinator. Then, completed my Health and Safety Certificate from Sault College.
I enjoy being outdoors and working with my hands so I was interested in being a General Laborer. Being able to walk away from a job and see immediate progression was fulfilling.
The Health and Safety Coordinator position interested me because I can still work outdoors and interact with the workers and continuously learn from them. I have always been a safety-conscious person, so it was a fitting position.
My job entails organizing health and safety training, conducting site inspections, distributing health and safety related information, assisting in the ongoing review of SalDan’s health and safety program, acting as a health and safety resource within the company, etc.
I enjoy the versatility my job provides. I have never had the same day twice. I love being outside interacting and learning from the workers on a daily basis. The amount of growth endured over the course of my employment in the construction industry has been the most rewarding aspect of my job.
Being a general laborer was physically challenging at times. Being a Health and Safety Coordinator can be challenging as the industry regulations and standards are always changing/improving so you really must stay on top of it.
Enrolling in the ADSB House Building Program and working as a general laborer with SalDan has given me the experience I needed to do renovations on my home by myself, which are 85% completed now without hiring out. I look forward to continuing gaining experience in the construction industry to further my knowledge and skills for both my career and at home.
Being a new young female worker in the construction industry has surely been challenging. I overcome them by doing my job as efficiently as possible and working to the best of my ability every day.
I recommend the construction industry to women because it is rewarding physically and financially and it is gratifying. There are so many different avenues in the construction industry that allows for endless opportunities.
For other young people interested in the industry: be versatile, embrace challenges, and work to the best of your ability at everything you do. Keep your head up, always.
