Women in Construction Spotlights SMACNA-Western Washington was proud to support its women © Can Stock Photo / Rigucci
in construction during #SMACNAWIC2021. Each day of Women in Construction Week, SMACNA-WW featured some of its female members. Check out the spotlights below.
Allison Adams Local 66 Journeyperson Hermanson Company
I decided to get into the trades after some home remodeling. I went through the pre-apprenticeship program ANEW and started in the sheet metal apprenticeship in 2007. I’m now a building trades journey-level sheet metal worker with Local 66 and work at Hermanson Company. I specialize in robot assisted layout, a.k.a. Trimble. I’ve helped develop the curriculum for a certification program and teach this robot assisted layout at Local 66. I am also a mentor for the union’s women’s committee.
Sondra Camis Engineering Manager ACCO Engineered Systems
When I graduated from college, I had no idea what HVAC was. It was by chance that I was connected to a small design/ build mechanical contractor looking for a design engineer, and thought I might as well give it a shot. Right away, I knew it suited me, and now I can’t imagine doing anything else. I stayed with that company for nine years until they were acquired by ACCO in 2014, where I now work as an engineering manager.
I have multiple welding certifications and keep them current to be a most valuable employee. In my time off, I enjoy painting, bicycling, and playing with my kids and dogs. I’m very proud to have such a valuable career that my husband can stay home and raise our three kids.
Over the past 16 years in this industry, I have been continuously challenged and pushed out of my comfort zone. More than once I’ve questioned if I was on the right track, if I really belonged where I was, and if it was all worth it. The answer is yes! The reward and personal growth that has resulted from those challenges has helped shape me into who I am today.
My advice for people new to the construction industry is to be the most valuable employee you can be. Find your niche— something not everyone else can do. Show up early, be friendly, work hard, and make sure you stretch.
My advice to anyone who wants to join the field: Find a company where you feel supported. Everyone’s career path looks different, and a company who recognizes that will provide you with opportunities to shape that path for yourself.
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Sheet Metal Journal - Western Washington
