Wilson & Company believes that diversity is essential to the growth and innovation of the construction and transportation industries. A large part of our ongoing commitment to fostering a more inclusive workforce is our dedication to supporting initiatives that enable young women to explore opportunities within the engineering, transportation, and construction industries. Men have long dominated the construction and transportation industries, and while the percentage of women in this industry continues to increase, introducing young women to these fields is crucial in ensuring that the workforce is as diverse as the communities we serve. Different perspectives foster innovation and creativity, leading to more valuable insights and higher-quality work. Partnering with organizations like Transportation & Construction GIRL (TCG) enables us to play an active role in shaping a stronger and more innovative industry. We greatly value our partnership with TCG, demonstrating our commitment to educating and inspiring the next generation of female leaders.
TCG’s mission is to shape the future of women in these industries, encouraging them to pursue sustainable non-traditional careers and inspiring them with insights from successful women.
For the past three years, Wilson & Company has proudly sponsored and collaborated with TCG. This organization is dedicated to providing young women, ages 13-23, with a clear pathway from dreams to jobs in construction and transportation. TCG Founder and Program Director Keller Hayes elaborates on the status of women’s employment in the industry, “Only 11% of the construction workforce is women. Transportation & Construction GIRL recognizes that as an opportunity for young women to have financially sustainable and rewarding careers. And, for the industry to have a feasible way to answer our workforce shortage.”
Recently, our Denver office had the pleasure of hosting a group of young women from TCG for a day full of learning and exploration. These young women visited our Alameda Bridge construction administration project, dressed head to toe in their safety gear and pink hard hats; they witnessed the process involved in bringing a major infrastructure project to life.
Not only did the participants see the inner workings of a live construction project, but the day was also filled with fun and education as the girls competed in a bridge-building competition, testing their creativity and problem-solving skills. Some of our engineers and professionals at Wilson & Company were on hand to offer career insights, answer questions, and share their own experiences in the industry. Our professionals highlighted how opportunities in the construction and transportation industry can be more valuable than many realize, offering pathways to stability and well-paying careers, especially for those who may not have access to a four-year college education. “There are many paths to a successful career,” said Keller, “College is one of them. But so are apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and internships.”
Wilson & Company’s Serena Foote, Associate Project Manager of Construction Administration for the Alameda Bridge Project and our liaison to TCG, shares the importance of showing these young women all the possibilities available to them.
“My experience with TCG has been nothing short of inspiring. My favorite part of this year was showing the girls our Alameda Bridge Replacement over the South Platte River job site, where I work each day. Showcasing the transportation and construction industry to young girls at such an early age is so impactful. Witnessing the difference TCG Career Week for GIRLS makes in their lives is unlike anything I’ve experienced before; I only discovered this industry when I was already in college, so seeing these young women get a head start is truly amazing. I am confident they will move mountains in whichever field they choose, and I’m grateful to be part of their journey. I am immensely proud to be involved with TCG and thankful that Wilson & Company supports this vital organization.”
The impact of initiatives like TCG extends far beyond individual participants. By empowering young women and women professionals, we are contributing to a more inclusive and resilient industry. A diverse workforce brings a wealth of perspectives and ideas, driving progress and ensuring that our industry evolves to meet the needs of our communities.
Wilson & Company envisions a future where women are not just participants but leaders in construction and transportation. Keller speaks on the importance of our relationship with TCG, “When Wilson & Company hosts Career Week for GIRLs, they show those girls: there are good jobs in this industry, and this company is interested in them; there are already women in this company that prove they are welcome in this industry. Because of support from firms like Wilson & Company, we now have young women working or studying in this field – ones that didn’t even know these jobs existed before their interaction with Transportation & Construction GIRL. [Participant] Sophia said, ‘I knew by the end of Career Week for GIRLs that my future would be as a woman in construction.’” We are committed to continuing our efforts to make this vision a reality, and we look forward to seeing the incredible contributions these empowered individuals will make.
Our involvement with TCG continues. Wilson & Company employees will volunteer at Career Day on September 26. We are excited to share more about the professional opportunities for women with the 2,000 future leaders registered for the event.
Learn more about Transportation & Construction Girl.