Name and Company: Annette Campagna Walter, Timber Industries, LLC
Title: Owner & CEA
Years in the industry: 19 years
What made you want to join the construction industry?
My first exposure to the construction industry was from the financial side. I worked for a bank and financed various construction projects from 2001-2006. As most of you can recall, this time was a busy period in the real estate, finance and construction world. In 2007, I launched my first company with multiple partners which was a full-service real estate firm. We grew that company to 300+ people and 17 locations all while weathering the worst economic downturn of the century. In 2012, we sold. From this experience I gained my first taste of entrepreneurship. I loved the day to day journey of growing people and growing the business. It was after that chapter that my business coach introduced me to an opportunity to acquire Timber Industries. As I did my due diligence on the company, I noticed that there were not many women in the industry. I saw an opportunity to bring innovation, diversity and a different perspective to this space.
What does being a woman in construction mean to you?
Now more than ever there are many opportunities and resources available for women in any industry they want to pursue. I am grateful to be a woman business owner in this space. We are really good at the work that we do. I think we bring a different perspective and vision to a long running male dominated industry. I am happy to also, have other strong, smart women on my team that add immense value to the industry and our company on a day to day basis. There is true focus and purpose in what we do and how we do it. I personally do this work to support and inspire my team, our families and for our clients.
How can you help educate young women that may be considering entering the industry or that don’t know about opportunities in the industry?
I coach and mentor women in all industries. I encourage the younger women to consider engineering, careers in STEM and other industries that are male dominated. There is so much opportunity there! Additionally, every summer I hire female interns from my high school. They are inspiring and fearless. I encourage them to be curious, ask questions, be bold and brave. Take pride in navigating new waters and lead to inspire others.