Laura Hruby, Estimator at Immel Construction, is an excellent example of a woman in construction who utilizes her knowledge and skill set to move up in her career. Starting with Immel Construction as an Estimating Coordinator in 2006, Laura gained valuable experience assisting with thousands of bids. She later worked her way to become a Senior Estimating Coordinator, and now Laura excels as an Estimator successfully bidding her own projects.
Laura is always the first person to volunteer to help others - both her co-workers and the in the community. Rock the Block, Habitat for Humanity, Festival Foods Brat Barn Fundraiser, and Good Neighbor Week are just a few of the recent organizations Laura has volunteered her time with.
We asked Laura about her career path in estimating:
Q: How did you get your start in the construction industry?
A: I fell in love with designing homes when I was in high school and decided to make that my career. I attend Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, and I got my first job at a residential construction company once I graduated. It was everything I had hoped for, but the economy had different ideas. While I had never considered a job in the commercial field, or in estimating, I am exceptionally thankful that I found my way to Immel.
Q: How have you seen the industry change for women during your career?
A: The number of women entering the field has slowly been creeping up, and I believe that now is a great time to get into the trades.
Q: What would surprise people most about your job?
A: The amount of pride that you can get driving around our community seeing that red Immel sign standing proudly in front of an active site or being able to say “I was a part of that going up” after a job is complete.
Q: What is your favorite project you've worked on and why?
A: Vaughn Library – the fact that we able to take this old run-down building and turn it into this bright beautiful space for the community was just so neat to watch. When I went to the site a few weeks into demolition, I was hard to see the vision. But the way the project turned out in the end…our field guys did just awesome.
Q: What would you say to young women considering this field?
A: If you have the interest, take the leap, you won’t regret it!
More Information on Women in Construction Week
You can find more information and resources at AGC Wisconsin, as well as other resources like the National Association of Women in Construction.