Women in BUILD Awards 2016

2016 Women in Build Awards Build 19 he most rewarding project I have been a part of in my career is the Sable Gas Project, in Goldsboro, Guysborough County, Nova Scotia. I was one of four women who worked in the field on the project, which lasted approximately two years. While working in the industry for over twenty years I have set myself apart from my competitors through continuous education, as well as involvement in construction and safety related organizations such as the Canadian Society of Safety Engineering. My business background has made me very valuable, and my open mind, communication skills and determination to succeed have been invaluable. One of the key challenges I have faced is gaining respect in a male dominated industry. When men in the industry start treating you like ‘one of the guys’, you have achieved their respect and that is a great feeling. The younger generation seems to have less of an issue with women in the industry, and this is great to see. Improving working conditions for women in the industry will continue to attract and retain women during a critical time of labour shortages. I often speak to young women who are considering careers in this industry. It is a great experience to see the excitement on their faces as they receive encouragement. I enjoy mentoring young women who choose the construction safety field. This is such a fulfilling career as it makes me feel like I am helping others. At the end of the day, I see the employees going home to their loved ones without an injury. The company’s growth and success has been built on industry knowledge, ethical business practices, quality products and exceptional service provided by a dynamic Team. I work diligently to ensure the employees receive the education, training, equipment and tools to perform their work in the safest manner possible. Travelling to each location and providing guidance in developing policies, safe practices and procedures to ensure they are as knowledgeable as possible from a safety perspective is very rewarding. You have to be determined, persistent and keep an open mind, while keeping a light hearted sense of humour to be successful in this industry. There is no other career I would rather have. It is challenging yet very rewarding. Recognised Leader in Construction Safety Management - Nova Scotia Quality Concrete Inc. is a market leader in the production and supply of ready mix con- crete for customers throughout Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Our head office is located in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. In January, the company expanded their plant facilities from eleven locations to twenty, and have five additional aggregate sites. Shortly after this, Kathy Betts joined the team as Safety Manager; she told us more. T WB16023 Contact Details Company: Quality Concrete Inc. Name: Kathy Betts Email: [email protected] Web Address: www.qualityconcrete.ca Address: 20 MacDonald Avenue, Dartmouth, NS B3B 1C5 Telephone: 902-468-8040