Construction DEI Talks

The host review season 2, DEI landscape and whats to come in season 3

Welcome to the Construction DEI Talks podcast, where we dive into diversity, equity, and inclusion as they relate to the construction industry. Co-hosts Jorge Quezada, Vice President of Inclusive Diversity at Granite Construction, Stephanie Roldan and Te'Osha Baker-Bunch of Rosendin, and Aby Combs, Inclusive Diversity Business Partner at Granite Construction, bring new conversations with subject matter experts and discuss how we can make our industry better and stronger. Today’s episode looks a little bit different as we listen to a live recording of Stephanie’s recent speaking opportunity. In this special episode, we present a captivating live recording from Stephanie's recent speaking engagement during Women in Construction Month. Stephanie, with her remarkable journey in the construction industry since 1999, provides invaluable insights into career development. From her early days as an ambitious field apprentice to her current role as Vice President of Learning and Development at Rosendin, Stephanie now dedicates her time to coaching, mentoring, and fostering professional growth for others. She is passionate about assisting individuals in exploring career moves that align with their unique talents by turning the ladder into a lattice. As the conversation progresses, Stephanie delves into her personal experiences and the activities that have shaped her ongoing learning journey. She emphasizes the importance of leadership development within company-sponsored committees and the power of mentorship and sponsorship. Stephanie also shares valuable advice for employees who feel their efforts go unnoticed, stressing the significance of finding mentors who advocate for their growth and success, even beyond the boundaries of their industry. Tune in to the Construction DEI Talks podcast to gain helpful insights, actionable strategies, and diverse perspectives that will empower you to make a lasting impact in the construction field. Join us as we create a stronger, more inclusive industry together. Links: Learn more about Construction DEI Talks on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter. Learn more about podcast sponsors Granite Construction and Rosendin.

Welcome to the Construction DEI Talks podcast, a show dedicated to exploring diversity, equity, and inclusion within the construction industry. Join us as co-hosts Jorge Quezada, Stephanie Roldan, and Aby Combs engage in insightful conversations with industry experts, discussing ways to improve and strengthen our field. In this episode, Aby and Jorge have an inspiring conversation with Mariella Dabbah, Founder and CEO of the Red Shoe Movement—a global community of professionals committed to supporting women's career success through peer and leadership development. Mariella shares her personal journey and emphasizes the importance of maintaining authenticity and individuality in professional settings. As she delves into the challenges faced by women in the corporate world, Mariella highlights the need for private conversations among women and the significance of defining personal success while fostering inclusivity within organizations. The Red Shoe Movement partners with larger organizations to facilitate career advancement for women and promotes a culture of inclusiveness. With seven guiding principles, the movement empowers individuals to design workplaces that are encouraging and welcoming for everyone. Discover how companies, including those in male-dominated industries like construction, finance, and logistics, can collaborate with the Red Shoe Movement to support gender equality. Learn about the innovative pink hard hat initiative tailored specifically for the construction field. Mariella explains how the movement operates within organizations, encouraging simultaneous progress in both the advancement of women and the evolution of company culture. Men are invited to join the movement and contribute positively, fostering an environment of collaboration rather than guilt or shame. Moreover, gain insights into the Red Shoe Movement's partnership with an artist dedicated to empowering women worldwide. Discover the transformative impact the movement has on team members at Granite Construction, and explore the three essential calls to action: be open and curious, embrace the value of learning from mistakes, and actively engage with the movement. Don't miss this engaging episode of Construction DEI Talks as we explore the Red Shoe Movement's remarkable efforts in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the construction industry and beyond. Keywords: 1. Construction DEI Talks 2. diversity, equity, and inclusion 3. construction industry 4. podcast 5. Red Shoe Movement 6. diversity in construction 7. leadership development 8. women's career success 9. workplace inclusivity 10. women in the corporate world 11. gender equality 12. career advancement for women 13. male-dominated industries 14. pink hard hat initiative 15. company culture 16. collaboration and progress 17. empowering women 18. global community 19. Granite Construction 20. peer and leadership development

Welcome to the Construction DEI Talks podcast, where we explore the crucial topics of diversity, equity, and inclusion as they pertain to the construction industry. In this episode, our co-hosts Jorge Quezada, Vice President of Inclusive Diversity at Granite Construction, and Stephanie Roldan, Director of Lean Culture at Rosendin, engage in a thought-provoking conversation with the esteemed guest, Roger Millar, Secretary of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). Roger, an experienced land use and transportation engineer, planner, and program manager, is renowned for his innovative approaches to conservation and development. Throughout his illustrious career, he has focused on planning and implementing transportation systems that not only drive economic vitality but also prioritize environmental stewardship, social equity, public health, and aesthetic quality. In this episode, Roger begins by sharing his profound understanding of stewardship and dispelling the misconception that WSDOT's role is solely limited to constructing roads. He reveals the monumental scope of the department's projects, having invested over $200 billion in publicly owned infrastructure, including roads, bridges, ferries, railroads, and more. Roger emphasizes that his real responsibility lies in stewarding the public's investments. Drawing from his experiences as a child in an army family, Roger reflects on the transformative power of moving from place to place. He recounts the moment he stepped off a plane in Shanghai, where he felt a profound sense of difference. Discover how this upbringing cultivated his capacity to see the world through a steward's lens and how each new location taught him valuable lessons about communication and diverse perspectives. The conversation then delves into the fundamental role of relationships in the construction industry, highlighting WSDOT's comprehensive diversity, equity, and inclusion program. The department strives to diversify its workforce by welcoming more women and people of color into the traditionally male-dominated construction field, ensuring that their work benefits the entire community. By acknowledging past industry missteps and embracing an inclusive future, Roger explains how Washington State can reap the tremendous benefits of a broad range of backgrounds and cultural experiences by 2050, where no majority culture is projected to exist. Prepare to be inspired as Roger unveils WSDOT's powerful and inclusive strategic plan, one that engages every individual and prepares the department to navigate natural disasters and shifting demographics. Discover how WSDOT's pre-apprenticeship support programs collaborate with community colleges, labor groups, and contractors to bring men and women from diverse backgrounds into the construction trade. As a result, an impressive 45% of apprentice hours worked on WSDOT contracts are contributed by women and people of color. As the episode concludes, Roger leaves us with three impactful calls to action: be yourself, listen to people, and educate yourself. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from Secretary Roger Millar and WSDOT as they lead the way in transforming the construction industry through diversity, equity, and inclusion. For more information about Construction DEI Talks, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter. Learn more about our podcast sponsors, Granite Construction and Rosendin. Connect with Secretary Roger Millar and WSDOT to stay updated on their remarkable initiatives.

Kabri Lehrman-Schmid has established herself as a highly skilled and competent general contractor. Her $1.9B portfolio is a testament to her diverse skill set and management competencies across all project phases. She has led transportation and higher education projects with progressive delivery models, demonstrating her ability to navigate complex projects effectively. However, Kabri's passion extends beyond project management. She has built a reputation for establishing higher expectations for the performance and role of a general contractor. Her efforts to influence the industry have focused on improving workforce health, examining bias, and challenging stigmas that impact mental health in the construction industry. Kabri's contributions to the industry have not gone unnoticed. She was recognized as one of ENR's 2023 20 Under 40 professionals in AEC, a cover page honoree for Construction Business Owner's 2019 20 Outstanding Women in Construction, and the recipient of AGC of Washington's Rising Star Award in 2022. These honors highlight her commitment to driving positive change in the industry. As a passionate advocate for field management's role in examining bias and challenging stigmas that impact mental health in the construction industry, Kabri uses multiple media platforms to spread awareness to a growing audience. She recognizes that diversity and inclusion efforts cannot exist without addressing the root causes of exclusion and discrimination in the industry. Kabri Lehrman-Schmid's passion for improving workforce health and advocating for the examination of bias and stigmas in the construction industry makes her an inspiring figure. Her accomplishments and recognition in the industry highlight her commitment to driving positive change. We hope that her story will inspire others in the industry to take action and create a more inclusive and equitable environment. Links: Learn more about Construction DEI Talks on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter. Learn more about podcast sponsors Granite Construction and Rosendin Learn more about Kabri Lerhman-Schmid.

Discover how the 2023 LEAP TA Construction Conference will empower HR leaders to connect the right people with the right opportunities and establish a pipeline of future candidates in the construction industry. In this episode, we welcome Jemma Boon and Georgia Pink from the LEAP HR team to share their insights on how the construction industry can tackle the talent imbalance through their upcoming conference, LEAP TA: Construction 2023. With over 30 successful events under their belt, Jemma and Georgia have the expertise and knowledge to empower HR leaders to make a positive impact on their organizations. Tackling Talent Imbalance in the Construction Industry Jemma and Georgia share their insights on how the construction industry can tackle the relentless supply and demand talent imbalance by connecting the right people with the right opportunities and establishing a pipeline of future corporate and field candidates. They discuss how LEAP TA: Construction 2023 offers a unique and immersive experience with discovery sessions, development sessions, and activity sessions to help HR leaders solve their most pressing TA challenges. Jemma and Georgia also share how the traditional conference format is not suitable for today's needs and why they've started from scratch with LEAP TA: Construction. They discuss how this conference offers a high-energy, high-impact, fully immersive experience that goes beyond the 'what' and the 'why' to get to the 'how'. They also highlight the importance of setting clear, bespoke action plans to ensure a fast ROI. We also receive valuable insights into how HR leaders can make a positive impact on their organizations and the construction industry. By attending LEAP TA: Construction 2023, attendees can discover innovative solutions, connect with thought leaders, and establish a pipeline of future candidates to tackle the talent imbalance. Links: Learn more about Construction DEI Talks on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter. Learn more about podcast sponsors Granite Construction and Rosendin. Learn more about the LEAP TA Construction Conference.

Welcome to the Construction DEI Talks podcast, your go-to source for exploring diversity, equity, and inclusion as they pertain to the construction industry. Hosts Jorge Quezada, Stephanie Roldan, and Aby Combs bring you the latest conversations with experts, providing insightful and valuable perspectives on how to create a stronger, more equitable industry for all. In this episode, Jorge and Aby speak with guest Dr. Sally Spencer Thomas, a renowned clinical psychologist, mental health advocate, and suicide loss survivor. Dr. Thomas shares her personal experiences and professional expertise, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health and suicide prevention in the construction industry. Did you know that construction workers have a higher risk of suicide, addiction, and overdose? Dr. Thomas sheds light on this alarming trend and highlights the need for upstream efforts to prevent these tragedies. She calls for a shift in the way construction companies treat their employees, prioritizing mental health and creating a culture of care and support. Listeners are encouraged to take action, starting with acknowledging the human beings in their workplace and making mental health a priority. Resources like Workplace Suicide Prevention and Construction Working Minds are available to provide support and guidance in this important effort. Don't miss this eye-opening episode of Construction DEI Talks. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter to stay up to date on the latest episodes and connect with the hosts and guests. And don't forget to check out our podcast sponsors, Granite Construction and Rosendin, for more information on their services and contributions to the industry. Links: Learn more about Construction DEI Talks on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter. Learn more about podcast sponsors Granite Construction and Rosendin. Connect with Dr. Sally Spencer Thomas. Learn more about Workplace Suicide Prevention and Construction Working Minds.

In this episode, Rosendin's SVP Angie Hart discusses her fantastic career in construction, equity in the workplace, and how to look for potential growth in employees.

In this episode, we speak with Thamara Subramanian on a broad range of topics on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and justice. Thamara is a born and bred Kansas Citian passionate about the intersection between health and social justice. She currently serves as the Equity Audit and Strategy Manager for The Winters Group. She is responsible for uncovering insights in data to help organizations embed anti-racism and reimagine how their policies and practices either support or impede equity and justice. Thamara shares her insights and leadership throughout the community with involvement with Girls on the Run and Big Brothers Big Sisters KC. Thamara has a BS in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Michigan and an MPH in Health and Social Behavior from the Harvard Chan School of Public Health, where she served as an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Fellow.

In this episode, James McGibney shares his views on allyship for women in construction and what he’s been up to lately. James is the Senior Director of Cybersecurity and Compliance at Rosendin, where he has been for 9 years. His primary role is to keep hackers out of the Rosendin environment and keep employees safe internally.

In this episode, we hear from Chris Wilke, CEO of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). Chris shares his views on diversity, equity, and inclusion, the Hispanic community, and SHPE as a valuable organization to create opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Welcome to the Construction DEI Talks podcast, where we dive into diversity, equity, and inclusion as they relate to the construction industry. Co-hosts Jorge Quezada, Vice President of Inclusive Diversity at Granite Construction, Te'Osha Baker-Bunch, Stephanie Roldan, Director of Lean Culture at Rosendin, and Aby Combs, Inclusive Diversity Business Partner at Granite Construction, bring new conversations with subject matter experts and discuss how we can make our industry better and stronger. Today, our co-hosts are back together for a check-in conversation as they ring in season 2 of the podcast.

Erika Fry, Senior Safety Manager at Rosendin and leader of Pride and Proud, joins to discuss her experience in the LBGTQ+ community, both in the military and at Rosendin. *Explicit content rating due to mild profanity.

Greg Jenkins joins the podcast to discuss the importance of having a strong Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practice in the construction industry.

On a recent Linkedin post VP of Field D&I at Northwestern Mutual, Ron Adams shared his 5 D Model for DEI practitioners. We invited Ron to the podcast to go share his thoughts on the practice and his model. Ron is the Vice President of Field Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) at Northwestern Mutual where he leads a team of diversity practitioners responsible for the creation and execution of D&I strategies for the organization's career distribution system. In this role, Ron co‐leads the Northwestern Mutual D&I Corporate Committee and serves on the Field Experience Talent Management Leadership Team focused on developing and delivering core components of the overall field talent strategy to ensure the industry‐leading Northwestern Mutual career distribution system is strong and vibrant. Ron joined Northwestern Mutual in January 2015 after a 26‐year military career where he served in many roles, including the Wisconsin National Guard’s diversity officer, equal employment manager, human resources branch chief, and public affairs officer, and completed two successful commands. He retired from the Army Reserves as a field grade officer in August 2020.

In this episode, we are joined by Co-leads - (Diversity and Inclusion in Construction and Engineering), Ashley Ruiz, and Richard Hinton. Ashley serves as the national Director of Corporate Social Impact at McKinstry – a national leader in designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining high-performing buildings. Ashley is responsible for all corporate initiatives focused on social and environmental responsibility. Ashley oversees community partnerships and philanthropic giving; diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy and programs; and sustainability and carbon reduction initiatives for McKinstry. Richard is the Director of People Strategies for Shawmut Design and Construction’s New York Metro region, Richard is responsible for working with the business and People Strategies Team in the development and implementation of talent strategies and tactics that drive strategic goals for the company. Both share their personal stories and the impact they are making in the construction industry!

Brynn Huneke & Henry Nutt III, representing the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) share their thoughts about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the construction industry. Plus they walk us through AGC's Culture of Care program.

Co-host Jorge Quezada and Granite SVP Brian Dowd have a conversation on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the construction industry.