Meet Marissa Alverson, safety coordinator at Rockford, Bachelor of Science Occupational Health & Safety – Grand Valley State University.
How would you prepare other women for the industry? What advice would you give them?
Break free from stereotypes. Be a team player and ask for help when help is needed. Know what you’re comfortable with and be willing to speak up when something becomes uncomfortable or unfamiliar – a willingness to learn builds trust with your team members.
What has been the most challenging aspect of being a woman in this field? The most rewarding?
It takes a bit more effort and courage to go into a field that is male-dominated and earn trust that you are just as capable as your male counterparts. My dad used to own his own excavation company, and my sister and I learned how to operate the heavy equipment. People used to say to us “You can work circles around these men,” and this was incredibly rewarding. We stepped up and got done what needed to and this went a long way in earning respect.
How do you think the construction industry can attract more women to the field?
There is a misconception that construction jobs are too strenuous for women and that we are not capable of performing in this industry. However, there are so many different jobs in this industry that women excel at, such as drywaller, electrician, plumber, welder, engineer, architect, safety – just to name a few. Companies need to be more conscientious of advertising to both men and women. The skills and talent of a construction worker shouldn’t be based on their gender but their willingness to be a team player, learn and lead.
