Women in Construction Week is dedicated to recognizing the impact of women in what has historically been one of the most male-dominated fields in the U.S. WIC Week is both a celebration, as the number of women in the field continues to grow, as well as a networking opportunity for those interested in finding a new role within it.
Here’s a look at the career of GI Stone President Sandya Dandamudi.
How did you get your start in the construction industry?
Sandya Dandamudi: I was very fortunate. My mother had an interior design business for 30 years specializing in high-end residential and corporate interiors, so I grew up with carpet samples and millwork strike offs. When she started a stone fabrication company, it was natural that I join her, even though growing up, I never thought I would work with my mother!
Describe a typical day on the job.
Dandamudi: I start my day early, around 6 a.m. The first thing I do is check my emails, prioritize my day and make phone calls. I go to the office between 7–8 a.m. and meet with my production manager and our project managers. After that, the calendar dictates the rest of day—meetings, site visits, etc. I have a wonderful team and great clients, so for the most part its smooth sailing, but it would not be construction if we did not need to put out some fires or smooth ruffled feathers!
What hurdles do you face working in a career still largely dominated by men? How do you overcome these hurdles?
Dandamudi: When I started my career, I faced the usual hurdles as a newcomer. And, while I do not want to mitigate the real challenges faced by women and people of color, we do need to work twice as hard. I also got a tremendous amount of support from my colleagues. Once I proved we could deliver, we are good at what we do, and we are team players, then we were welcomed on jobsites and often asked to mentor others. I love this space. Construction tends to be pretty straight forward. There are no games being played. Once you are admitted to the “pack” there is no going back.
What’s been your favorite project and why?
Dandamudi: We are known as a luxury brand. We are lucky to work with some of the best architects and designers and be part of creating beautiful and stunning spaces, and we have many opportunities to feel a deep sense of pride.
My favorite project was a project I was hesitant to take in the first place. It was an affordable housing project being renovated by Related Midwest called Circle Park. It was difficult to meet the quick turnarounds required, but one day I was walking the space and heard very loud squeals coming from a few doors down. I walked past the door, and it was this family that was overwhelmed by how beautiful their new place was. I have never forgotten that expression of joy and am proud to be part of that.
What do you like most about your job?
Dandamudi: I get to work with what God created every day. It never gets old. There are always new stones that are being discovered, and it’s exciting. But what I love the most are the people I get to meet. I’m a people person, and I get to work with the best—in development, construction and design.
I also love the collaboration, the teamwork and the camaraderie. You’ve got about 200 people working on a project at any given time and that’s a very comforting. So, I love, love the humanness of the job. I like something that’s always growing. It’s just awesome.
How has the participation of women in construction changed over the years and where do you see it heading?
Dandamudi: When I first started, I was one of few women, and often women I met were in support roles or interior designers. I often got mistook for either. Today I see women everywhere—in project management, in development, in architecture and in leadership. I see no reason why women won’t end up being 50% of the industry. Women are still grossly underrepresented in the trades, but I see that beginning to improve, too.
What advice would you give to other women interested in entering the field?
Dandamudi: There are many women who pioneered the way here—don’t take that struggle for granted. You can do anything. Don’t limit yourself and don’t forget we are still fighting. Don’t let the stereotype of “women don’t belong in construction” deter you because that is absolutely not true.
