Page 22 - Shaw Wall of Honor

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roles, while women typically work in support roles. We are seeing more women in production roles in the industry, but I don’t ever expect the ratio to be close to 50/50.
While it has been challenging working in a predominantly male industry, I always led (and continue to lead) with knowledge, recognizing that I’d have to try harder in certain circumstances just to be seen as an equal. That’s how I’ve always differentiated myself, and continue to do so. I earned my CPCU designation almost 20 years ago and have sat (and still sit) on several boards that cater to the construction industry and associated risks. I do a lot of public speaking, educating business owners and professionals, such as attorneys and CPAs, as to how to get the best bang for their buck when securing an insurance program even in the most challenging of insurance markets, such as the one we are facing now.
It’s been my experience, both in work and life, that women tend to be more supportive, while men are more goal- and results-driven. It is critically important to a woman’s success (especially in a male dominated industry) to have proper guidance and mentorship. I’ve been very well-served over the years (and serve others as well) by being a resource and helping to guide others through mentorship.
I think my takeaway is that it is definitely more challenging as a woman in a traditionally male industry, but if you work smart and hard, and surround yourself with the right people and experiences, you can be very successful.
It is critically important to a woman’s success (especially in a male dominated industry) to have proper guidance and mentorship.