Everything Under The Sun: Barton Malow Highlighting Female Workers

Friday, March 17, 2017

Barton Malow Highlighting Female Workers

Barton Malow construction crew working on a site at University of Maryland Baltimore.

One of the top construction companies in the entire US is BARTON MALOW. We, in the Baltimore area, are lucky to have one of the company's branch offices in the downtown area. The company's expertise includes the areas of healthcare, higher education, K to 12 education, federal, energy, and sports and special events types of facilities. If you see a construction project in one of these areas, Barton Malow may be on the job.

This month Barton Malow has been highlighting some of the women employed by the company and breaking ground for other women to follow in their footsteps. Alison Nykamp is a project manager, currently working on the Morgan State Behavioral & Social Science Center project. She's been working in the field for about 11 years and got her start with an internship with a construction manager.

Women in the construction field comprise only ten percent of the workers, although women make up more than 50 percent of the population. So, that creates a few challenges. Among them is working with older generation males, who aren't that used to working with women. And with Ms. Nykamp being a woman in charge, that makes it even more of a challenge. Part of it is in the mantra of many workers saying, "But we've always done it that way." It's hard to change how you're used to working, especially when it's a younger female worker, who is telling them how she wants the work done.

But Ms. Nykamp takes the challenge in stride. Older techniques may not be the most effective, and she's quick to point out that trying this "new" way might make work easier and more effective. However, one of the best ways of gaining trust and respect is to make sure that she continues to work and act professionally.

Alison does have a few tips for those considering a career in construction, similar to hers. She said, "1. Don't let being a female be a disadvantage, we are just as capable as all of the males in the industry. You don't get anywhere in your job by playing on the fact that you're a woman, either, but you shouldn't be ashamed of being a woman; you need to be comfortable being yourself. 2. It won't be easy, in fact working in the construction industry will always be challenging. 3. You have to earn respect, it is not automatic. The best way to earn respect is to just do your job to the best of your ability. 4. Don't be afraid to provide firm direction. 5. If you don't know the answer it is OK. The trades onsite are always more than willing to explain something to you. Remember, they will likely need your help down the road. 6. Have fun, it's a great industry to be part of."

You get that Alison just loves her job and loves talking about it. It isn't everywhere that you can find that sort of enthusiasm!