Hailey is proving to everyone that women can not only function and work in the trades, but thrive!
Hailey Williams is located in Baltimore, Maryland - and if anyone knows how to hustle, it’s her! She’s studied plant science, installed green roofs, and managed the construction on a range of projects from an elephant zoo exhibit all the way to an NFL stadium - just to name a few.
LIFE AS A BLUE COLLAR WOMAN
Hailey never saw herself in the trades, but fate had other plans. She works as a Superintendent for a construction management company in the Baltimore area. She took every opportunity to learn and grow through a variety of blue-collar positions, so if anyone has a good grasp on life in the trades - it’s her! At the end of the day, she loves the versatility that comes with working in construction.
“I fell in love with the organized chaos and constant challenges and problem-solving throughout the day. I've certainly worked on some challenging projects from both a logistics and design standpoint, but that’s what makes my job enjoyable. The less enjoyable part is having to prove yourself to every new person you meet. I do think that’s par for the course when you’re young in this industry, but I don’t think being a woman works in my favor in that aspect.”
HEALTHCARE CONSTRUCTION AS A SUPERINTENDENT
Hailey has worked on some incredible construction projects, and for the last 2 ½ years she’s worked in healthcare construction. Her work in occupied renovations has been her most challenging, but equally most rewarding.
“It’s immensely rewarding to see a space you’ve turned over being used to care for people. Simply put, I love what I do. Endless opportunities to learn, problem solve, and work together with a team to build spaces we are proud of is what keeps me going.”
HER INSIGHTS INTO THE CONSTRUCTION FIELD
Hailey can be found constantly learning, solving problems, and creating the designs that become our hospitals, zoos, and stadiums. As far as shoes, she recommends Thorogood 8” Steel Toe Wedge Sole boots. We asked her why she liked these specific boots, here’s her answer:
“Besides the obvious of being the most comfortable shoes I own? One of the challenges, albeit one of the lesser challenges, that women face in the construction industry is simply finding clothing, boots, PPE etc. that not only fit and are high-quality, but don’t look like cheap knock off versions of men’s. Imposter syndrome is a real thing, but being able to look and feel the part every day and not stand out like a sore thumb certainly helps.”
ADVICE FOR OTHER ASPIRING SUPERINTENDENTS?
In a male-dominated field, it can be intimidating to enter the trades as a woman. Hailey is a prime example that women can (and should) pursue whatever career they’re called to do. She gave some insightful advice for becoming a Superintendent in a construction management company!
“Be humble, look to the trades for help, and know what you don’t know. Be confident when you know you’re right, but don’t be overly confident if you’re not sure. I’ve seen too many people starting construction management out of college that don’t look for help from their subs, and don’t even realize how little they know about what’s going on in the field. Everyone is there to help each other, you just need to be humble enough to ask for it and accept it when it’s offered. I will never know more about plumbing than a plumber, and I will never know more about electrical than an electrician.
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