5 minute read
Women in Construction
from CCR Issue 8.22
Letting her light shine
Conversation with A&S Construction’s Sandra Hofmeister
Sandra Hofmeister discovered at a young age all about life’s journeys—especially the part where it will take forever to take you to new and unexpected places. The daughter of a WWII father who was expelled from his country by a Spanish dictator and became a diplomat, she has been blessed with stories about how you can do whatever your heart says it can.
By the time Hofmeister settled in Frederick, Maryland (she grew up in Lima, Peru, became an accountant and moved to Florida), she was looking for the right opportunity, eventually landing work with a local roofing company. New to the industry, she had no idea about things like square foot and yard measurements. She had lived in a metric system. With fierce determination, she spent nights pouring over the new system, eventually landing a promotion as production manager. The only Hispanic woman working at the company, she was in charge of overseeing everything—…until COVID. Laid off, she sought a new challenge—which turned out to be A&S Construction. We sat down with Hofmeister to get her thoughts on the industry today, why diversity matters (and can make a difference) and why traveling the world is next on her to-do list.
What are some of the biggest changes you have seen over the past few years?
Being in the industry for more than 10 years, I’ve seen quite a few changes. But most importantly, I am happy to see more women in construction and trades. From roughly 3% in 2016, now we are about 11% especially in management positions. I think some companies are making efforts towards being more inclusive and welcoming for women, which is a good start.
What opportunities are out there for the industry as we move forward? For women?
I believe that women can thrive in any role in the construction industry, even though we are
currently underrepresented. Diversity is a proven asset for profitability and an important component in solving the industry’s labor shortage. Also, trade jobs are in high demand and the money is there. I believe that this should be very attractive for women
What type of trends are you seeing today?
If we check statistics, we are still heavily underrepresented, in trade and executive positions. However, like I said before, diversity is now key to success and many companies are open to changing the gender bias from their work culture. This may take a while, but the process has started, and I see this as a very positive change
What advice can you share?
I’ve been working in construction for more than 10 years and I still see very amazed
looks on people’s faces when I tell them what I do. But many others make me feel proud, so based on my own experience I would tell you to, “Be Yourself,” “Do the Best You Can,” and “Let Your Light Shine.”
I believe that women can thrive in any role in the construction industry, even though we are currently underrepresented. Diversity is a proven asset for profitability and an important component in solving the industry’s labor shortage.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
My dad became a builder later and he always told me to be hardworking and dedicated to whatever I decide to do, because this will separate me from anyone else and I will stand out. And he was right, I made myself a name in the local industry and gained respect.
What’s the biggest item on your to-do list?
One of the things that I would love to do is travel around the world. I hope I will be able to do this one day. As a multiracial individual, I learned to appreciate and embrace everyone and I enjoy learning about different cultures and traditions. CCR
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