This week is Women in Construction Week and in celebration we’re profiling a few of our incredible female Barton Malow team members. WIC Week is an annual event put on by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) to highlight women as a visible component of the construction industry. We also invite you to participate by posting on social media using #WICWeek2021 and recognize the women in construction who inspire you, share advice for other women in construction, or post a picture.
Name: Denisha Greer
Current Role: Supplier Diversity Specialist
Current Location: Midwest; Detroit Office
Years in the Industry: 1.5 Years
What led you to a career in the construction industry?
In 2016 I interned with Barton Malow through a workforce readiness program, Grow Detroit’s Young Talent (GDYT), and during that time I learned about the construction management side of the industry. Having that experience changed my initial mindset about construction and I gained interest to learn more about the industry.
What are some of the biggest challenges of being a woman working in construction?
One of the biggest challenges of being a woman working in construction is communication. Being in a male dominated industry, I think it’s important to be able to effectively communicate and doing so will make a positive impact for women working in the construction industry.
What do you love most about your career?
I love that Barton Malow believes and provides innovative solutions to our clients in the communities where we build. The type of work that I do involves being engaged in the communities we have projects in. I enjoy playing a role in connecting and
ensuring an inclusive procurement process and increased spend with minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses.
What advice would you give women starting out in the industry?
The advice that I would give to women starting out in the construction industry is to allow opportunity in, to learn new things and grow. This includes letting your strengths create opportunities for you, even if they’re not in your career plan.
This year’s theme is “Connect, Collaborate, Construct.” What are some of the ways you’ve worked to connect, collaborate, and construct with other women in construction?
Some of the ways I’ve worked to connect, collaborate, and construct with other women in construction is to identify, vet, and refer historically under-utilized contractors and suppliers on our projects. This includes attending career fairs, joining community organizations, and participating in panels/speaking engagements that highlight women in construction.
