International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements of women, while advocating for the advancement of women’s equality. At Geranium, more than half of our employees are women, holding key positions in all facets of the company – from the executive team to the construction sites where our homes are built. We’re proud to have a strong group of women who are doing amazing things on our sites every day, making a difference in Geranium homeowners’ lives each step of the way of the new home building journey. This year, we wanted to feature some of the women on our construction sites in various roles, as they reflect on their career thus far and provide advice for those thinking about getting into their line of work.

Kelly | As Friday Harbour’s Construction Site Administrator on the townhomes for the past 7 years, Kelly works with Trades and Site Supers to ensure the construction work is completed.

Q: Why did you choose this profession?
A: It chose me! I was working for a trade and I got to see how Geranium, and new home construction, worked and I realized it was something I was interested in. When this job opportunity came up, I knew in my heart it was the one for me!

Q: What do you especially like about your job?
A: I like getting my hands dirty and being helpful. It feels good to be part of a team. And what better setting than Friday Harbour? I’ve loved watching this four-season resort come to life.

Q: What’s your advice for young women interested in this type of career?
A: Jump in with both feet. Adjust and embrace your surroundings and enjoy being part of a good team.

Q: Tell us about yourself away from the work.
A: I’m originally from Toronto, I’m so happy I’ve relocated to Barrie. It’s a beautiful area to live and work, no matter what the season, and it’s an easy commute for my husband, Dino, who still works in Toronto. In our spare time we love camping and exploring different parts of Canada.

Marianne | Marianne has worked for builders since she was 18, and joined the Geranium team 6 years ago as Client Care Site Manager, currently at Allegro in Aurora.

Q: What exactly does a Client Care Site Manager do?
A: My job is to oversee the on-site Client Care field team and help new homeowners as they move into their newly built home; offering assistance with warranty and service requests, and answering any questions they may have.

Q: What do you like best about working at Geranium?
A: I enjoy being at different locations. It’s fun meeting different people, and I find it very rewarding helping families as they move into their dream home.

Q: What’s your advice for young women just starting out in the industry?
A: Be flexible and learn from everyone. You will be working with many different kinds of people, seize the opportunities to learn everything you can. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, communication is the key.

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: As a mother of four adult children and stepchildren I spend my spare time with my three grandchildren. They are my world!

Kristina |  Kristina has worked at Geranium since 2018 and is the Client Care Specialist for Midhurst Valley and the townhomes at Friday Harbour.

Q: Tell us a bit about what you do.
A: I’m the point of contact for service and warranty related inquiries for new homeowners in our Simcoe region.

Q: What do you like best about your job?
A: Meeting new people and helping them during this exciting time as they move into their new home.

Q: Your advice for young women interested in a career in the construction industry?
A: Never doubt yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, you will always find someone that is willing to help you learn. Don’t give up! It can be hard at first but when you persevere, it’s a very rewarding feeling.

Q: Tell us about yourself away from the work.
A: My three kids keep me busy. Sports, homework and events, there is lots to do in the Barrie area and my kids and I enjoy spending time together along with Nala, our Bengal cat, who is like a toddler and gets into everything!

Cheryl | As Finishing Site Supervisor at Midhurst Valley, Cheryl is in charge what interior components of the homes are needed to complete the house, from painting to flooring, cupboards to electrical.

Q: How long have you been working in this industry?
A: After previously working in the telecommunication industry for 28 years, I was eager to learn something new. I started at Geranium 7 years ago as a service manager, when the opportunity arose to work under construction as an administrator at a new site, I couldn’t wait to take it on and learn this position.

Q: What do you especially like about your job? 
A: I enjoy the challenges of my job, no day is the same, every house is different. There’s great satisfaction in seeing the finished project.

Q: Any advice for young women just starting out?
A: Be willing to take risks and venture out of your comfort zone; you never know what might pique your interest or uncover a new skill. Have confidence in yourself and your abilities, ask questions. Use challenges as a stepping stone to grow, never give up.

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: When not on the job, I love canoeing on the lake, or just sitting on the dock at my family cottage with friends. It’s my happy place.

At Geranium, we foster an inclusive work environment. We strongly believe that embracing differences and providing equal opportunities to all individuals increases creativity, innovation, and ultimately, success for everyone involved.

Interested in growing your career at Geranium? Visit www.geranium.com/careers.