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CSI celebrates Women’s History Month, honoring the countless contributions women have made to the AECO (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Owner) industry.
The month is set aside annually to honor women’s contributions in American history. The 2022 Women's History theme, “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope,” is both a tribute to the ceaseless work of caregivers and frontline workers during this ongoing pandemic and also a recognition of the thousands of ways that women of all cultures have provided both healing and hope throughout history.
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Here, CSI sits down with 2020 Class of Fellows honoree Lee Ann Slattery FCSI, CCPR™, CDT®, LEED AP, BD+C, of ATAS International, Inc.
Please share some of the professional achievements and special projects that have the most significance to you?
I am proud to have achieved several professional certifications during my career, including the CDT, CCPR, and LEED AP BD+C. These have been useful in building and demonstrating my knowledge within the industry. I have had the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles with two architectural building product manufacturers over the past 30 years, including leadership positions.
Regarding special projects, I have been part of the planning committee for the Let’s Build Construction Camp for Girls since its inception in 2017. As well, I’ve participated in several Canstruction competitions in the Lehigh Valley, which results in food and monetary donations to Second Harvest Food Bank. I was also involved in a local project for Homes for our Troops, which builds and donates specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post-9/11 veterans to enable them to rebuild their lives.
What first intrigued you about a career in the AECO industry, and how does it continue to both challenge and reward you?
I was not necessarily considering a career in the AECO industry. We had moved to the area, and I needed to quickly secure a job. I was hired as a receptionist for a wall panel manufacturer and progressed into other roles with that company including customer service manager, marketing manager, and northeast region sales manager. I am now the sales support manager for ATAS International, and my responsibilities include a combination of marketing, industry education, and business development. I am continually challenged with the growth of our product line and services that we offer, and with changes in technology in our industry. The fact that my employer supports me in continuing education and industry association involvement is rewarding and appreciated.
Who are some of the other women in the industry who have mentored or inspired you?
I have been inspired by several women in the industry. When I attended my first CSI Academy, in the product representative track, Alana Sunness Griffith gave one or two presentations, and I was very impressed with her ease in a room where she was one of a few females there. She came across as very confident and comfortable with who she was and what she had to offer, which has inspired me to do the same. Another person who I admire is Ellen Kay Crews, who was CSI’s chairperson during part of the time I served on the board as the Middle Atlantic region director. Her thoughtful and passionate leadership of the board was commendable.
Regarding the Let’s Build Camp, I’ve been inspired by Kristen Fallon (formerly with ABC, and now with the YMCA), one of the co-founders of the camp along with Jon Lattin of CSI Greater Lehigh Valley. Janet Grazul, treasurer of the local camp, and many other women who are involved in planning and administering it for the past six years are awesome, and anyone would be inspired to see them in action with the campers.
What advice might you share with women just beginning their careers—or that you wish you could have given yourself?
I would advise others to pursue careers that they are passionate about, and not because someone is pushing them in a particular direction, nor simply for the large salary that a certain field or position is known to pay. Also, don’t be afraid to apply for a position that you want, even if you don’t meet every requirement a job posting lists. Do your research about a company before applying, and research similar positions within different companies. Learn about a potential employer’s company culture, to see if it fits with your beliefs and expectations. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for what you want in responsibilities, salary, benefits, etc.
Are there specific opportunities—or roadblocks—you see for other women in the industry now?
I have seen a big increase in the number of women in our industry, from when I started 30 years ago. I also see the value of women-led industry associations, such as the National Women in Roofing and National Women in Construction. When I first started in the industry, I wanted to be treated as “one of the guys” to fit in and be accepted, so I steered clear of any association geared toward women. Now I appreciate the value of those associations and their members, who encourage and support each other in an industry that is still male-dominated.
How does the Let’s Build Camp for Girls help young women prepare for a career in this industry, and what are your hopes for this program as it continues to grow?
The Let’s Build Construction Camp for Girls introduces middle and high school-aged girls to a wide variety of career options in our industry, and it also results in greater self-confidence and team-building skills which will serve them well in life, regardless of their career path. Positions in many of the trades, manufacturing, and architecture, engineering, and contracting firms are explored. It’s great to see the camp supported and promoted by the CSI Foundation, and that several new camps are being considered throughout the country. Now, if someone would create a women’s camp to teach some of the trade skills, I would certainly enroll in that—as would some of the camper’s mothers and my colleagues, as they have shared that desire with me!
The 2022 theme for Women’s History Month is “Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope.” How can—or do—CSI members do exactly that right now?
With the introduction of CSI’s diversity, equity, and inclusion task force, that’s a great step in the right direction. By making everyone in our industry more aware of the value of DE&I, and how it will improve all our lives, it will also promote hope to women who are considering a career in the AECO industry. The possibilities of a successful career in our industry are unlimited, and that needs to be embraced by all of us, to encourage women to reach for, hold onto, and achieve all their dreams.