The construction industry has designated Women in Construction Week as a time to recognize, inspire, and congratulate hardworking, talented women in a typically male-dominated field. We at Caliente Construction are active supporters of this mission. We want to take a moment to appreciate, inspire, and congratulate the women making a difference in the A/E/C industry. In honor of Women in Construction Week, we wanted to hear personal experiences from women at our company.
Meet Fernanda Munoz, Project Manager
Fernanda has been in commercial construction for over 20 years and has been part of Caliente for seven years. She has provided private and public sector clients with proactive and innovative solutions for projects with complex problems.
What she has to say:
What has been the most memorable moment in your career?
I was working on a high-profile project with our company a few years back, and it was more of a design-assist project for us. We worked two shifts to meet the Owner’s turnover dates for hired personnel. I remember visiting the site with my son (no work was occurring then, and we could go to the construction office as soon as we got off the elevator, he was safe). He was in awe as we had begun framing, and the floor started taking shape. He asked what we were building, so I told him a call center that would house 500 agents on the floor. He was amazed and said, “Mom, your job is important. You build areas for people to work. I want to do your job when I grow up.” We tend to get caught up in the moment that we forget that our industry is a gateway for progress on many levels. Everything we do has an impact on our community. My son, an 8-year-old at the time, reminded me of how impactful and rewarding our jobs are.
What are the advantages of being a woman in construction?
Construction is an inclusive industry that offers women greater opportunities for leadership, better pay equity and future work stability.
What advice would you give to a young woman entering the industry?
Do not settle! Although our industry has become more inclusive and diverse, we must keep pushing boundaries. A good mentor, whether female or male, will help you carve out a career path in the different sectors of our industry. Relationships are key, and ensure that you maintain good working relationships with everyone, not just the client. A colleague of mine has always told me – internal and external clients, and that has stuck with me.
What is the best part of your job?
My colleagues, maintaining relationships with old, new, and current co-workers.
How do you think construction can attract more female candidates?
Hire and promote more females and allow them to have a balanced work/personal life and more women will see that construction is an option for them too. It isn’t your typical crew of males in hard hats, safety glasses, and working in the field. They have more job opportunities than the cliché of swinging hammers.
What makes you proud of working at Caliente Construction?
Collaborating with my fellow women colleagues and the depth of knowledge diversity that each one brings. I have learned more from some of our current women colleagues at Caliente Construction and depend on their mentorship and expertise.
What do you think is the most important change happening in the construction industry?
Technology advancement! Our industry has been slow to adapt and move forward with innovative technology that allows us to become more efficient and proficient in our work. I can’t wait to see how new technology continues to push the typical building methodology.
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Caliente Construction would like to congratulate all the women in construction. We’ve been in business for over 31 years and are thrilled to be part of a world acknowledging women’s incredible capabilities in this and virtually every other industry and occupation. We celebrate Women in Construction week with great pride, particularly the women at Caliente Construction. Congratulations on your outstanding contributions and accomplishments throughout your professional careers!
And to all women in our industry, partners, and employees—Thank You! As you continue to advance, we are committed to supporting you at every level this week and for years to come.