Fueled by Family - Eastern Spotlights
Ames Construction is Fueled by Family, and we’re proud to celebrate the people who put their talents to work at Ames project sites and offices across the country.
CAROLINE BELL
Foreman in Training
Eastern
Greensboro-Randolph Megasite, North Carolina
2 years at Ames
→ What advice would you give women looking to join the construction industry?
“Give it a try! It will open your eyes to so many different career pathways, and the worst thing that could happen is you don’t like it. You’ll never know if you don’t try it. There are so many things to enjoy about construction work, and so many possibilities and opportunities.”
→ Did you face any challenges when you first started in the construction industry? If so, what type of challenge and how did you overcome them?
“When I first started, I felt like there was a stigma that I didn’t know anything and some people didn’t listen to my suggestions because ‘I’m a girl.’ But through the years I’ve noticed that the industry is changing and more and more people value my opinion and concerns. I’ve overcome situations like that by standing up for myself and never letting an isolated incident dim my light.”
→ How do you think construction can attract more female candidates?
“I think women can feel intimidated by construction because they may not have knowledge about the field, but mentorship programs and having women train other women so they’re more comfortable when starting out could help.”
ELIZABETH (LIZ) BECKAS
Geospatial Engineer
Eastern
Charlotte, North Carolina, Office
2.5 years at Ames
→ What advice would you give women looking to join the construction industry?
“If you're thinking about getting into the construction industry, go for it! Your skills and passion matter more than anything else. It’s all about showing what you’re capable of and being confident in your abilities.”
→ What has been the most memorable moment in your career?
“Getting my drone license and flying the drone for the first time. The experience of seeing everything from a bird's-eye view was absolutely incredible and gave me a new perspective on things.”
→ How do you think construction can attract more female candidates?
“By highlighting successful women in the field, offering mentorship programs, and showcasing the variety of roles available in construction.”
TONYA MCCLELLAND
Project Operations Wellness and Risk Manager
Eastern
U.S. 74 Shelby Bypass, North Carolina
4 years at Ames
→ What do you like best about working in construction?
“The opportunity to travel and meet so many great people along the way, from coworkers to locals in the communities where we are working.”
→ What has been the most memorable moment in your career?
“The most memorable moment I’ve had in my construction career happened as I was driving to a newly awarded job site for the first time as a Project Safety Manager. It was quite surreal to reflect on the journey from starting my construction career as an entry level general laborer 4 years ago to now a Project Safety Manager. If you are willing to invest in the industry, the industry is willing to invest in you.”
→ What has been the most memorable moment in your career?
“The most memorable moment happened as I was driving to a newly awarded jobsite for the first time as a Project Safety Manager. It was quite surreal to reflect on the journey from starting my construction career as an entry level general laborer four years ago to now a Project Safety Manager. If you are willing to invest in the industry, the industry is willing to invest in you.”
