I began my career in construction almost 16 years ago as a project engineer at Skanska. Being a woman in a male dominated industry has certainly presented its share of challenges.

As a young woman, I felt that I had to work harder to prove myself and gain credibility from my mostly male-dominated project team, comprised of clients, subcontractors, architects and engineers. Looking back, I value my experience of climbing the ranks from project engineer to senior project manager. My time on the field made the most significant impression on me, as I learned to live and breathe every detail of the project.

Nothing gives you more confidence than knowing all the details of your job. Earning the respect of my teammates and changing female stereotypes in the process has been an extremely rewarding experience.

As we recently recognized Women in Construction Week 2018 this month, it is clear how far the construction industry has progressed in the past 30 years. Women now make up 9.1 percent of the construction industry in the U.S. Now, more than ever, we need to continue to improve and pave the way for future generations of women in construction.

Industry organizations such as American General Contractors of Massachusetts (AGCMA) are pushing the boundaries by organizing groups such as Building Women in Construction (BWiC) that aim to help women succeed. I had the honor to serve as BWiC’s first committee chair over the past year. Through organizing events, speaking engagements and client panels, we brought awareness to imperative topics that affect women in the industry every day.

Local women leaders were eager to address our audience as we reached out to potential speakers. Over the past year we’ve hosted Evelyn Murphy, co-chair of the Boston Women’s Workforce Council and an advisor to the Mayor’s Office of Women’s Advancement, who shared practical advice on how to negotiate contracts and salaries. Liz Brunner, former news anchor and reporter for WCVB NewsCenter 5 in Boston, presented tips and tricks on how to establish your own personal brand. And this month at the first annual BWiC Inspire Awards, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito kicked off the ceremony by presenting the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and AGCMA with an official proclamation by the commonwealth of Massachusetts. Such public acknowledgement and evolving conversations by women leaders continue to push boundaries allowing more women to reach new milestones.

Advancement Through Mentoring

Commodore Builders, where I have been employed for the past eight years, has been monumental in my journey to success. Commodore has a vibrant, engaged culture that rewards professional performance. Senior leadership provided me with numerous training opportunities and a tailored plan for my individual growth. Commodore has an active mentor program and an executive open-door policy.

Through mentorship, I was encouraged to build my own professional network by attending client events and participating in industry panels. Mentorship has been significant to my career progression. Advice from those who have been in a similar position before gave me the confidence to trust myself and my decisions.

Now as a role model to younger women starting their careers at Commodore, I am honored to pay it forward. In addition to helping me reach my career objectives, Commodore has been nothing but supportive throughout both of my pregnancies. As a mother of two boys, accommodating schedules and flexibility allow me to continue doing what I love – be a mom and have a career.

Throughout my years in construction there are a few lessons I carry with me.

In addition to the support of your firm and industry associations, you and only you are responsible for your growth and advancement. A peer mentor you can turn to when you are facing a tough predicament is key. My sister, who is the chief operating officer of a nonprofit organization, has been invaluable for advice and guidance through my many professional and personal scenarios. The support of my family and husband gets me through every day.

As I got older, I learned that it’s OK and in fact necessary to ask for help. Finally, don’t forget to focus on yourself and your health, both mental and physical. The love I have found in running helps me clear my mind, especially on those more challenging days. Some days I find that I am a better mother. Some days I find that I am a better employee. Overall, I’ve learned that you can have it all, just not at the same time!

Stacy Roman is a senior project manager at Waltham-based Commodore Builders.