International Women's Day 2018 |

March 8th is a day for celebrating women! Celebrate your mother, daughter, partner, sister, and even that strange aunt you haven’t seen in ages. We want to thank these women for their hard work and dedication, their practical advice, and their ability to somehow do 8 different things at once.

While landscape construction has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, we are fortunate to work with many professional women on a daily basis. They includes suppliers, subcontractors, and members of our own design and construction teams. Recent studies show that there are more women participating in the labour market throughout Canada than ever before. Not only are more women being employed, they are gaining high-ranking positions in their fields!

One of our best Site Supervisors, Marie Cornwell, has been with B. Rocke Landscaping for 11 years. Marie is hard-working, determined, and she leads by example. She ensures that her crew is well-motivated, educated, and follows all required safe work procedures.

When you are in charge of multiple people and multiple projects, how do you keep everyone on track and motivated to complete all of the work?

“As a Site Manager it’s important to lead by example and work just as hard as my crew. We start the day by having a meeting for safety and setting daily goals. Communication is very important, frequently checking on my team to make sure they understand the work or have any questions or concerns. Nothing worse than not knowing what you’re doing on a job. I like to get everyone involved by asking for input and suggestions, which makes them feel included. Giving training on harder tasks to improve their skills, gives them a chance for advancement in the company. At the end of the day I thank my crew for their hard work & hope they feel valued. It also doesn’t hurt to buy them coffee and doughnuts sometimes or slurpees on a hot day:).”

What do you think is an important characteristic to have when you work in a male-dominant position?

“Well I have to say growing up with 7 brothers really helps in a male-dominant workplace. Over 11 years I’ve developed a very thick skin, I’m confident and very assertive but also have a sense of humour. You need to be tough (mind and body) and show those guys you’re not scared of hard work. I love a challenge.”

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate women (of course!). What woman (or women) has inspired you throughout your life and career?

“I will say the women that inspire me the most are the ones working in other trades, working as hard as I do or harder. A woman that can make themselves equal to men in hard, labour-intensive jobs are attractive and strong, proving their power.”

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We recently had the opportunity to design and develop a 10 acre commercial site just south of Winnipeg. Spearheading this project was Cheryl Russell, who was one of the first people we met from her team in 2016. Cheryl works in a management position for Richardson International Ltd, one of Canada’s top agribusiness companies. From the moment we had our first design meeting, it was clear to us that Cheryl had a vision for the company’s project, and that she was going to make sure every detail was considered.

How did you decide to get into this field of work? What has helped you the most along the way?

“I have worked with Richardson for 25 years. My current Construction and Facility Management role evolved over time after being given increased responsibilities and expanding my role within the company. I enjoy my job and have been fortunate that Richardson continues to challenge and allow me the opportunity to be involved in the construction, renovation, or landscaping of new sites and facilities where I can contribute and provide input on some great projects.”

“Support and encouragement from the people I work with has helped most along the way. I have developed some good relationships with great people who have made the learning curve interesting and fun.”

What do you think are some important characteristics to have when you work in a high pressure and fast-paced position?

“Being organized, driven, inquisitive, persistent, and approachable, while never taking yourself too seriously are key characteristics I believe are important to have in a high pressure and fast-paced position. Recognizing things are going to happen, you’re going to make mistakes and when it happens you need to pause, assess your situation, and move on.”

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate women (of course!). What woman (or women) has inspired you throughout your life and career?

“Many women have inspired me throughout my life. I have a great support network of good friends who are strong women whom I admire, continue to inspire me, and I am grateful to have in my life. The woman who was most influential in my life was my Mom who always encouraged and believed in me.”