The construction industry has long been associated with a predominantly male workforce. However, companies like Gray & Son are changing the narrative by fostering an inclusive environment that welcomes and supports women in the field.
As we celebrate Women in Construction Week during the first week of March, it’s the perfect time to highlight the incredible contributions of women on our job sites and the strides Gray & Son is making to empower them.
Pioneering Change in Maryland Construction
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, women are breaking barriers and making significant contributions to construction strategies, workplace safety initiatives, and leadership roles.
At Gray & Son, we recognize the value of diverse perspectives and the importance of ensuring every construction worker has an opportunity to succeed. By actively promoting inclusivity, we are shaping a future where the contributions of women are not just acknowledged but celebrated.
Building Careers Through Mentorship and Leadership
Mentorship is a cornerstone of our approach to empowering women in construction. By pairing experienced female professionals with new hires, we provide guidance and support that helps women thrive in their roles. These mentorship relationships are instrumental in navigating the unique challenges women may face in the construction industry, particularly in fields like Maryland construction and construction in Baltimore.
Leadership development is another critical area where Gray & Son excels. Women in our company are encouraged to take on supervisory and managerial roles, contributing not only to project outcomes but also to company-wide initiatives like construction safety and workplace safety programs. Their leadership helps set a standard for professionalism and innovation across all aspects of our work.
Spotlight on Gray & Son’s Women Leaders
One standout example of leadership and dedication at Gray & Son is Nicole Turner. Nicole joined Gray & Son in August 2010, following in the footsteps of her father and uncle, both of whom were paving superintendents at the company. She began her career as a runner, responsible for picking up parts for the shop and transporting materials between plants and the corporate office.
After two years, Nicole transitioned into the role of Quality Control Technician, where she played a crucial role in ensuring the density and quality of blacktop by pulling cores for testing. In 2019, she moved into the office as a dispatcher, coordinating all dump truck locations and ensuring that the correct number of trucks were assigned to job sites daily—a job requiring immense patience and dedication.
In 2024, Nicole was promoted to Dispatch Manager, a testament to her hard work, leadership, and expertise in construction logistics.
Nicole’s story exemplifies the opportunities available for women at Gray & Son and highlights how perseverance and skill can lead to career growth and leadership within the company.
Creating Opportunities for the Next Generation
Gray & Son is committed to paving the way for future generations of women in construction. Our efforts include partnerships with local schools and organizations to promote careers in construction to young women, as well as scholarship programs aimed at helping them pursue relevant education and training. These initiatives ensure that the talent pipeline remains strong and that the construction industry continues to benefit from diverse perspectives.
A Commitment to Inclusivity
Inclusivity is not just a buzzword at Gray & Son; it’s a commitment woven into the fabric of our company culture. By fostering an environment where women can thrive, we’re not only addressing historical imbalances but also strengthening our position as one of the leading construction companies in Maryland. Our female employees are proof that when given the opportunity, women can excel in every facet of the construction industry.
Celebrating Women in Construction Week
This Women in Construction Week, we celebrate the achievements of the incredible women who are building a brighter future with Gray & Son. Their hard work, resilience, and innovation are transforming the industry and setting new standards for excellence in construction jobs in Maryland.