Sea Hong

Be the change you want to see in the world." I've always believed that if I want to see more women succeed in the construction industry and witness positive changes in our field, I must lead by example and actively participate in initiatives like WiOPS

Why did you join WiOPS?

I joined WiOPS for several compelling reasons. Firstly, I was seeking a supportive community of women in construction who could serve as comrades, friends, mentors, colleagues, and even potential clients. The construction industry can be quite male-dominated, and I wanted to connect with other women who shared similar experiences and challenges. Secondly, I firmly believe that the construction industry can benefit greatly from the presence of more powerful and successful women. By working together, networking, and leveraging each other’s strengths and insights, we can collectively drive positive change within the construction field. I joined WiOPS with the hope of contributing to this transformation and witnessing more women excel and thrive in construction.

What do you see as the biggest value in being a member of WiOPS?

The biggest value I see in being a member of WiOPS is the sense of community and empowerment it provides. This organization brings together women from diverse backgrounds and experiences within the construction industry. It offers a platform for networking, learning, and sharing knowledge, which is invaluable in a field that can often feel isolating for women. Being a part of WiOPS allows us to support one another, exchange ideas, and collectively break down barriers.

Do you have a personal or professional guiding principle that guides you? or a quote you live by?

One personal guiding principle that has always driven me is the quote by Mahatma Gandhi: “Be the change you want to see in the world.” I’ve always believed that if I want to see more women succeed in the construction industry and witness positive changes in our field, I must lead by example and actively participate in initiatives like WiOPS to bring about that change.

How did you get involved/started in construction/your role? What is your favorite thing about construction?

I got involved in construction due to a combination of factors. As a first-generation immigrant from South Korea, I was always inspired by the idea of building and shaping the physical environment around us. This passion led me to pursue a career in construction. My favorite thing about construction is the tangible impact it has on our communities. It’s incredibly rewarding to see a project come to life and know that I played a part in creating something that will benefit society for years to come. At DirtMarket, I am working on a project in San Leandro where we are importing clean soil to build a beautiful park on a former landfill. It is a very rewarding project to see the true benefit of recycling to see a post-closure landfill combined with construction waste/byproduct soil to come to a beautiful park for the people. I am confident that this park will stand as a testament to sustainable development, offering the community and wildlife an enriching space for relaxation, enjoyment, and exercise for many years to come.

How do you feel about being a women in the industry?

Being a woman in the construction industry is both challenging and empowering. It comes with its share of biases and extra hurdles, but these challenges have made me more resilient and determined. I can bring a unique perspective to the field, fostering innovation and collaboration.I’m committed to breaking down barriers and advocating for diversity and inclusion. While it’s not always easy, being part of this movement to shape the industry’s future is incredibly rewarding.

What is the best part of your job? What do you think are the advantages of being a woman in the industry?

The best part of my job is seeing a construction project through from inception to completion. It’s immensely satisfying to witness the transformation of a site and know that I had a hand in making it happen. As for the advantages of being a woman in the industry, I believe that our unique perspectives and diverse approaches to problem-solving can be valuable assets. Diversity of thought leads to innovation and better solutions.

What advice would you give a young woman entering the industry?

To young women entering the industry, my advice would be to have confidence in yourself and your abilities. Don’t be afraid to speak up, take on challenging roles, and seek out mentors and allies. Building a strong support network, like WiOPS, can be instrumental in your success. Embrace your uniqueness as a woman in construction and use it to your advantage. “Stay patient and trust your journey.” – Unknown The quote “Stay patient and trust your journey” is another quote that I carry with me in my heart. It gives me a powerful message about maintaining a sense of calm and trust in myself as I navigate through life. Patience is a virtue that helps me build emotional resilience. It reminds me that life is filled with ups and downs, and setbacks are a natural part of any journey. By staying patient and trusting the process, I feel that it helps me develop the ability to bounce back from challenges with a positive attitude. It allows me to savor each experience and lesson along the way. It’s a reminder that the journey itself is as important as the destination.

What makes you proud of working in the construction industry?

I am proud of working in the construction industry because it allows me to contribute to the physical and societal development of our communities. Every project I work on leaves a lasting impact, and that sense of accomplishment is truly rewarding. Additionally, being a member of WiOPS and seeing the positive changes we can make collectively fills me with pride and hope for the future of women in construction.