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Career Paths: Women In Construction

Women are reshaping construction careers by bringing diverse backgrounds and breaking traditional barriers in the industry

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Women are reshaping construction careers by bringing diverse backgrounds and breaking traditional barriers in the industry

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In this episode of The AppleOne Podcast Career Paths series, host Brett Howroyd sits down with Shawna Alvarado to explore the evolving landscape of construction. As the second generation at O'Donnell Plastering, Shawna's career path—from cosmetology to construction—reflects the industry's expanding opportunities and the growing presence of women in roles ranging from tradespeople to executives.

Shawna highlights the diverse career paths available in construction, emphasizing that passion and dedication matter more than background or gender.

Passion and dedication matter more than background or gender.

She also discusses the balance between formal education and hands-on experience, noting that success in the field often comes from a mix of both.

A longtime advocate for women in construction, Shawna shares insights from her 28 years with the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). She sheds light on how organizations like NAWIC are helping to bridge the gap, increase awareness, and support women entering the industry.

Curious about a career in construction or know someone who should hear this? Don't miss this insightful episode. Pass it along, and subscribe for more conversations that open doors to new career paths.

For more information or to connect about this episode, please click here.

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About the Experts

BS
Business Services
BH
Brett Howroyd

President, ActOne Group

ActOne Group · AppleOne

Brett Howroyd joined ActOne Group in 2007, working in Los Angeles and Canada before becoming its president. His work has included developing internship and career-readiness programs and the company’s Educational Career Partnerships Department. He studied history and business and earned an MBA at the University of Southern California. His AppleOne interviews follow the routes people take into work and the decisions employers face when they grow. Shawna Alvarado brings a career change from cosmetology into construction. GovInvest’s founders explain why hiring an actuary differs from hiring an account executive. A Buffalo conversation connects the redevelopment of industrial land to training residents for the jobs that could follow. The range makes room for both the applicant and the employer. Alongside career-entry stories, Brett’s conversations with Admiral Brian Luther and Jordan Morrow examine retraining, institutional knowledge and the practical use of AI.

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