Women's History Month and Women in Construction Week with TD Partner Samantha Smith

As part of TD’s ongoing recognition of Women's History Month and Women in Construction Week, we are excited to feature some of TD's female Partners. 

We asked each Partner a few questions about her time in the industry and her thoughts on women in construction: 

Samantha has been with TD for three years, where she had developed into one of TD’s most dependable and hardworking sheet metal apprentices. Her family has a long history in the construction industry, and after spending time in the medical field, Samantha decided she wanted to learn a new career. Samantha works hard to ensure that she and her Partners are working safety and that her Customers are taken care of.

Q: How did you land in the construction industry?  

A: Construction runs in my family. My grandfather and father were in the business for many years. More specifically, my father worked in residential construction. Growing up, I took an interest watching him build houses and take on roofing projects. Previously, I was in the medical field and was a Certified Nurse and Medication Aide. Over time I started seeking a career change and when I went to the Workforce Solutions office, I found out more about the women in construction program. I filled out an application and now I’m here!

Q: What do you enjoy most about the construction industry and your role specifically at TD?  

A: I came in not knowing anything about sheet metal or what I was getting myself into. I have a great leader and so many of my fellow TD Partners have shown me the tricks of the trade to make the job easier. I’m not as fast as everyone, but I get out there and help fellow Partners to the best of my ability. Today, I know how to beat and seal duct, install hangers, taps, flex and grilles. I even know how to read the blueprints. I’m proud to be a reliable member to my team.

I have never loved getting up and going to work, until I started working at TD. There aren’t many mornings that go by when I don’t want to be at work. Like any job, some days are harder than others, but the journey has been amazing, and I look forward to many more years here.

I’m grateful for the opportunity that opened up for me and other women in construction. My favorite things about my job are the relationships I’ve built with my team, and how we are always helping and teaching each other.

Q: What can to be done to increase the percentage of women in construction?

A: Exposure to more women in our industry and just knowing that women can work in the same capacity as men in construction, would help bring more women into the field.

Q: What areas of the industry do you feel still have the biggest need for women?

A: The industry needs more female leaders, along with all skilled trades. There are not many women in sheet metal, plumbing, pipe fitting or electricians. We need more women who want to put all differences aside, jump the hurdles, and show that we can make a difference. Empower one another and help one another.

Q: What opportunities are available for women to advance and grow their careers in the industry? Any professional networking groups where women can collaborate together?

A: TD opens the doors for women to grow their careers. We have great leaders and mentors that will show you how to get the job done through hands-on teaching. Women in Construction-USA and National Women in Construction are two helpful groups where women can get together and collaborate on current projects, career advice, etc.

Q: What advice would you have for young women who are eager to join our industry?  

A: My advice to a younger woman coming into the construction industry would be that you can make it happen and get the job done, but you need to be strong emotionally and physically. If you want it, you can achieve your goals. Also, finding successful female leaders in construction who can answer questions and be a mentor is important.

Q: What does it mean to you that TD has a diverse work environment, that values all Partner contributions?

A: A diverse environment is a great thing because we all come from different walks of life and backgrounds to get the job done. We do it as a team. We are all different and bring different assets to the workplace, which leads to overall team success.