Today is the first day we are celebrating WIC Week (Women In Construction) and there is no better way to kick it off then to honor one of our long time NAWIC Members, Sandee Gerber, Owner of Twin Rivers Plumbing in Eugene. We had asked Sandee a few questions to share with everyone. Enjoy!
What got you started or interested in construction?
I learned about NAWIC from a few subs & contractors that Twin Rivers was working with in those years. I was interested in the networking that was helpful to all of us back then. It really helped being able to talk to other women about problems we were all having in our positions at our firm. There was no Wi-Fi, Google, social media, or Siri and Alexa to help you out. Just other women that might have the answer to something you were working on. It became valuable and to this day is an important part of NAWIC.
What types of positions/roles have you had? For how long?
Although I have not held a traditional construction/plumbing position with my company, I have learn almost all there is to know in the industry. Starting with admin., then safety on the job site, purchasing, human resources, operating manuals, and project management.
What is an accomplishment you are proud of?
I am proud of being a NAWIC member for 35 years, and holding all the offices.
Supporting all the trades thru providing scholarships, CAD contests, helping financially when needed, and being involved with the countywide school construction career days. As both a member of NAWIC; and member and past president of Lane Work Partnership, helped raised the awareness of the need for more skilled youth and helped set up programs for both men and women.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job/role?
Seeing how construction for women has improved over the past 45 years has been very satisfying. They have proved they are a valuable asset to the construction industry.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
Something you will probably not know about me and may be hard to believe is that I took ballet lessons for 7 years and danced in the Nutcracker.
What would you like to see for the future of women in construction?
There needs to be more women in all phases of construction, and the respect they deserve to hold top careers in the field with equal compensation.
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