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An Unplanned Path to Construction Leadership

In this episode, Laura Korte, Vice President of Construction at VR Mechanical, shares her unique career journey. Starting with aspirations of becoming a doctor, Laura's path changed drastically after taking a temporary job in construction. Discover how her background in health sciences unexpectedly led to a passion for construction and project management. Laura discusses her early career challenges, the importance of asking questions, the role of mentorship, and the dynamics of being a woman in a male-dominated industry. She also touches on the significance of work-life balance, leadership principles, and the value of meaningful projects. As Laura reflects on her achievements and future goals, she provides invaluable advice for young professionals considering a career in construction.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

04:23 First Experience in Construction

10:20 Career Growth and Opportunities

23:49 Supporting the Site Team

26:33 Creating a Supportive Work Culture

28:13 Navigating Career and Motherhood

33:12 Current Role and Responsibilities

45:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in Male-Dominated Fields with Nour Hachem

In this episode, Diane interviews Nour Hachem, President and Founder of the national not-for-profit 'Build A Dream'. Nour talks about her background and childhood and moving from Lebanon to Canada. She shares her journey from aspiring to be a human rights lawyer to discovering her passion for the not-for-profit sector, leading her to establish Build A Dream. Nour discusses the challenges and successes in promoting women's engagement in male-dominated sectors such as skilled trades, STEM, and leadership roles. She also emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments for women and the collective effort required to foster a more equitable society. Highlighting powerful personal and professional anecdotes, Nour illustrates the transformative impact of economic independence and the importance of empowering both women and men to break traditional molds and embrace their full potential.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

03:52 University Challenges and Career Shift

05:43 Founding Build A Dream

10:32 Mission and Impact of Build A Dream

25:08 Challenges and Solutions in Male-Dominated Fields

36:20 Success Stories and Future Goals

47:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Empowering Women in Skilled Trades: Diane Finnegan's Journey

In this episode, Diane Finnegan, CEO of The Dirty Seahorse, shares her inspiring journey from being a retail sales manager to founding a company that makes women's workwear for skilled trades. Diane describes how her daughter's challenges in finding suitable workwear sparked the idea, leading her to create a business focused on durable, functional, and comfortable workwear for women. Diane discusses overcoming obstacles like imposter syndrome, learning essential skills from sewing to fabric sourcing, and the importance of community and feedback from women in trades. The company aims not only to produce quality workwear but also to support and advocate for women in trades, highlighting issues like suitable daycare and employer hiring practices. Diane expresses her commitment to changing the industry for the better and her plans for future growth, including a potential storefront.

00:00 Meet Diane Finnegan: CEO of The Dirty Seahorse
03:22 The Birth of The Dirty Seahorse
07:33 Building the Business and Overcoming Doubts
10:26 Community Feedback and Product Development
19:32 Supporting Women in Trades
22:06 Challenges in the Trades
26:11 Social Media and Outreach
27:12 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated
31:13 Final Thoughts and Future Goals