Q: What is your job title, and what are the primary responsibilities of your position?
A: My job title is Director of Communications. I do all things communications and marketing. This role is a brand-new position for Sargent as of 2021, so my responsibilities change every day. I handle all of our social media accounts, website management, newsletter, On-Track Magazine, employee and project spotlights, our phenomenal podcast, and many other video series and campaigns.
Q: What are some of the challenges you face in your day-to-day role?
A: We all know Rome wasn’t built in a day! For me, that means I have to remember to be patient. Increasing awareness of Sargent and all that they bring to their employees and communities will take time, but I’m up for the challenge.
Q: What was your background before coming to Sargent?
A: I have a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and Theatre and an associate’s degree in Business Management from Campbell University in North Carolina (Go Camels!). After school, I moved to Boston and completed my master’s degree in Journalism at Emerson College.
When I heard about the job at Sargent, I was working as a reporter and the 5 p.m. anchor for WABI TV 5 News in Bangor. A friend knew that I was looking for a change of pace, so they suggested I look into Sargent. After speaking with Herb and Tasha, I knew Sargent was for me. I never imagined I would be part owner of a construction company, but here I am!
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: I love talking with people. People in this industry are incredibly passionate about what they do. They work hard, and that work means something. Listening to their stories is empowering, and I want to convey that to others. I’m excited to work alongside these dirt heroes and see what we can accomplish together.
Q: What sets Sargent apart from other construction companies?
A: It’s hard to know where to start! Sargent is a family of coworkers and passionate colleagues. It’s a company offering a better work-life balance and a chance at a secure future. Sargent is one-of-a-kind, and they offer so much to their employees both professionally and personally.
Q: How do you think the industry can attract young talent?
A: It’s getting harder to fill construction roles as the current generation of workers age out, and it’s time to tap into the millennial workforce. Millennials currently account for 50% of the working population, and that number will only grow. As a millennial, I think many of my peers are looking for a good work-life balance. Sargent offers that.
Sargent also offers the tools for young people to plan for their families’ future. Offering a work environment where a young person can thrive and reap the rewards of their work is something that will keep Millenials around for years to come. There’s always room for improvement, but I think Sargent is on the right track.
Q: What matters to you most about your job:
A: I’m proud to be a Sargent! Albeit short, my time here has already been more than I could have imagined. I have a family of coworkers, challenging and exciting days, lots of fun, and a future that feels secure. The culture here is something that you can’t get anywhere else, and what matters most to me is spreading the word about how great it is to be a Sargent.
Q: Who Inspires You?
A: A lot of different people inspire me. One is my grandfather. He was a logger and built his logging business from the ground up. My dad has been a firefighter all his life, putting others’ well-being before his own. My mom was a teacher, and she instilled in me a love of learning. Jim, my boyfriend, is the smartest, kindest person I know, even though he would never let on.
If I had to choose a female leader, I’d say Arianna Huffington, founder of Huffington Post. Her style of servant leadership built a positive culture around integrity, generosity, and group morale.
My takeaway from each of these people has given me the desire to become a selfless, kind, lifelong learner with an unwavering work ethic. I want to lead with integrity and inspire others to be great.
Q: How do you like to spend your free time?
A: I love spending time with my boyfriend Jim and his three children, who I love like my own; James, Isabella, and Ruby. It’s a busy, never dull life, one I wouldn’t trade for anything. They inspire me to be fearless and hopeful and always to dance–no matter who is watching!
