Empowering the future of women in construction

By Dani Sheehan. 

Industry professionals can go beyond the jobsite to make a lasting impact by supporting youth programs and fostering genuine human connections. 

For TRA Snow and Sun, empowering women and investing in the next generation fuels innovation, credibility and long-term growth. As Mindy Dahlquist, business development manager at TRA Snow and Sun, explained on a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips®, bringing women to the forefront of roofing and construction benefits everyone involved. 

“It’s really cool to sit in rooms full of women and men who just want to help each other grow,” Mindy shared. “It’s not about being a woman who doesn’t belong – it's about what you bring to the table. We think differently, we’re detail-oriented and that perspective is valuable.” 

TRA Snow and Sun’s involvement in the Let’s Build Construction Careers Camp (LBCC) for girls, a hands-on learning experience that introduces middle- and high-school-aged girls to the trades, is one way the company puts that belief into action. 

Hands-on learning builds curiosity 

Mindy first learned about the Let’s Build Construction Careers Camp through her colleague and friend, Shelly Higgins, and immediately saw an opportunity to get involved. The camp provides young women a chance to try their hand at roofing, framing, masonry, drywall, painting and more – giving them confidence through direct experience. 

“Being able to empower young people – women, men, whomever – to get involved in these career paths is massive,” Mindy said. “It doesn’t mean they have to follow that exact path, but it gives them the confidence to know they can.” Mindy and her husband now volunteer at the camp each summer, often switching off so they can both contribute. 

The camp’s impact has been both professional and personal. Her oldest daughter attended last year and walked away changed: “It was miserably hot, and there were moments she wanted to give up,” Mindy explained. “But seeing her push through and finish – by the end of the week, she was a different child. She was asking adult questions, thinking about her future.” 

Mindy recalled her own experience in trade school, explaining how one mentor’s encouragement helped her see her potential. “Having that little bit of encouragement from an adult is huge,” she said. “That can change the trajectory of someone’s life.” 

Building the future workforce 

Programs like LBCC directly strengthen the industry's pipeline. Many of the girls who participate make real-world connections during camp that lead to apprenticeships or job opportunities later on. “Some of the girls were connected directly with manufacturers while we were at camp,” Mindy noted. “We toured the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union, and the girls got to try welding and HVAC work. That kind of foot in the door, having a contact or a business card, is more than most high schoolers could ever ask for.” 

By investing in community programs like this, TRA Snow and Sun is helping ensure that the roofing industry continues to thrive with skilled, confident and motivated individuals. Listen to the full podcast episode to learn more about LBCC and how it’s fostering the next generation of women in construction.