WIC Week 2023: Five questions with Genessis Suarez
The College of Engineering is proud to celebrate National Women in Construction (WIC) Week. The focus of WIC Week is to raise awareness of the opportunities available for women in the construction industry and to emphasize the growing role of women in this field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of women in construction has risen by nearly 53% in the last decade, with 1.28 million women making their mark on the industry in 2022. With new construction job opportunities expected to increase in the U.S., companies will be looking to recruit more women than ever before.
Genessis Suarez, a senior studying construction management at Wayne State University, shared her perspective on the value of her education, her career prospects and the outlook for women in the field.
What inspired you to pursue a degree in construction management?
Being super passionate about design, sustainability and innovation helped me find the construction field particularly compelling. By entering a traditionally male-dominated field and excelling in their roles, women can inspire future generations of female construction professionals and help to create a more inclusive and diverse industry.
What are your career goals, and how is your Wayne State education preparing you to achieve them?
My career goal is to become a successful construction project manager, overseeing the planning, design, and construction of complex projects. To achieve my goals, my education at Wayne State University is providing me with a strong foundation in construction management principles, including project management, estimating, scheduling and cost control. Wayne State is preparing me to achieve my career goals in the construction management industry by providing me with a comprehensive education, practical experience and networking opportunities.
What obstacles have you faced in pursuit of success in this field, and how did you overcome them?
One of the primary obstacles is the complexity and ever-changing nature of the construction industry, which requires a high degree of adaptability and flexibility. Another is the need to balance technical skills with people skills. By staying flexible, building strong relationships and leveraging technology, I have been able to overcome the obstacles that I have faced in pursuit of success in the field of construction management.
What practical experience (internships, co-ops, team-based projects) have you gained?
I've gained practical experience as a construction project coordinator through a combination of internships and team-based projects. During my internship with Clark Construction Company, I developed my communication and project management skills, as well as my ability to work collaboratively with others to achieve a common goal.
What advice would you give other girls or young women thinking about a career in construction?
The construction industry can be rewarding and fulfilling, and there is plenty of room for women to make their mark in the industry. By developing your skills, seeking out mentors and staying persistent, you can build a successful career in construction.