Makayla

Makayla is a first-year Heavy Equipment Technician (HET) apprentice who took a chance on a new career path after spending several years as a caregiver for her family and for children with disabilities. She had always been interested in the trades, drawn to the idea of working with her hands and learning practical skills that could lead to a stable, long-term career. When the opportunity arose to enroll in the Women Building Futures program, Makayla decided to take the leap.

Despite some initial anxiety about being a woman in a male-dominated industry, Makayla pushed through the program and quickly secured a job as an apprentice, where she has continued to excel. She credits much of her success to the supportive mentors and colleagues she has found in the industry, who have helped her navigate the challenges of learning a new trade and find her footing as a skilled technician.

Brad Liebrecht, Makayla's supervisor, says that Makayla's desire to learn and her exceptionally positive attitude are among her best qualities. Liebrecht believes that having women in construction brings a completely different dynamic to the crew, jobsite, and the company. He says that women add a unique perspective to the construction industry, and he is overwhelmed by the success his company has had in hiring Women Building Futures (WBF) graduates like Makayla. He says that from their attitudes to their passion to learn, WBF graduates have been great assets to the company.

For Makayla, the best part of her job is the opportunity to learn something new every day. Whether she is working on a large-scale construction project or troubleshooting a complex mechanical issue, there is always something to challenge her and push her to grow. She hopes that more women will be inspired to join the trades and experience the same sense of pride and fulfillment that she has found in her work